Commercial Real Estate · California

Commercial Real Estate Costs in California — Expected Price Range & Breakdown

In California, most commercial property projects cost between $12.00 and $60.00 per sq ft per year, with a typical price near $30.00. Local labour, permits and materials move the final price, so treat the range below as a planning guide.

Typical commercial property cost

$12.00 – $60.00

per sq ft per year · typical $30.00

A general planning range, not a quotation.

Commercial property cost breakdown

  • Industrial or warehouse$6.00 – $15.00typical $10.00
  • Retail space$15.00 – $45.00typical $28.00
  • Prime office space$30.00 – $60.00typical $45.00

At a glance

  • Typical range$12.00 – $60.00
  • Unitper sq ft per year
  • Cities covered200

What Commercial Real Estate costs

Commercial leases are quoted per square foot per year and vary by property type, location and term. Industrial and warehouse space is cheapest, retail sits in the middle, and prime office space is the most expensive.

By city in California

Frequently asked questions

What is a typical commercial lease rate?
Rates run from about $6 per square foot per year for industrial space to $60 or more for prime office. Location and building quality drive the spread.
What extra costs come with a commercial lease?
Expect NNN charges for taxes, insurance and maintenance, plus a security deposit and possibly a fit-out contribution.
How long are commercial leases?
Most run three to ten years. Longer terms usually come with lower rates and improvement allowances.