Empty storefronts and empty offices: commercial real estate vacancies in Boulder

January 29, 2026 - 04:31

The visible issue of empty storefronts and underutilized office spaces across Boulder is moving beyond casual observation into deeper community analysis. A recent discussion brought together local experts to dissect the complex factors behind these commercial real estate vacancies.

The conversation highlighted that this is not a simple story of economic downturn. Panelists pointed to a confluence of challenges, including high rental rates that persist despite market softening, the long-term impacts of remote work on office demand, and the evolving nature of retail in a post-pandemic world. The specific dynamics of Boulder's local economy and its commercial property ownership patterns were also cited as key influences shaping the current landscape.

Listeners contributed personal accounts of beloved local businesses closing and expressed concerns over the character of neighborhoods changing as storefronts remain dark. The dialogue underscored a community-wide effort to understand the underlying forces at play, questioning whether these vacancies represent a temporary market correction or a more permanent shift in how Boulder works and shops. The search for viable solutions that balance economic vitality with community identity continues as the city navigates this period of transition.