Half occupancy is 'new normal' for Manhattan offices: employer survey

The Manhattan skyline looms over the East River on March 28, 2022 in New York City.
The Manhattan skyline looms over the East River on March 28, 2022, in New York City. Photo credit Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — For the first time since the start of the pandemic, more than half of Manhattan’s office workers are back in the office.

However, according to a new survey, most companies don't expect this number to change much going forward.

According to the survey released Thursday by the Partnership for New York City, 52% of Manhattan office workers are back in person on the average weekday, up from 49% in September 2022.

"The prediction right now is that this year we will get to about 56% in the office," said the partnership's Kathryn Wylde.

In its survey, the Partnership refers to the predicted 56% occupancy rate as the "new normal."

Wylde said companies are finding remote work to be a net benefit.

"The hybrid work model, where people only have to be in the office three days a week, is allowing for big benefits in recruiting and retaining talent," she said.

But some are indicating professional development is taking a hit.

Contrary to some economic predictions, just 7% of companies expect to reduce their headcount.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Spencer Platt/Getty Images)