The companies evaluating Wake County today are providing a glimpse into the region’s economic future. Through hundreds of site selection conversations and project inquiries received in 2025, WCED’s Project & Real Estate Trends Analysis identified three clear trends: stronger demand for existing buildings, growing pressure on utility infrastructure, and a narrowing focus on specific building sizes. 

One of the most notable shifts was the return of existing building demand. After reaching a multi-year low in 2024, companies increasingly sought move-in-ready facilities that could help accelerate operations. Demand was strongest for industrial and flex buildings between 150,000 and 200,000 square feet, while smaller users seeking less than 50,000 square feet also re-emerged as an active segment of the market. 

At the same time, utility infrastructure has become a defining factor in site selection. In 2025, 75% of projects required electric infrastructure commitments, while nearly half specified water and sewer requirements. As automation and robotics become more prevalent across industries, access to power is no longer a competitive advantage. It is a baseline requirement. 

The data also revealed two clear sweet spots in building demand: facilities under 50,000 square feet and those between 100,000 and 200,000 square feet. Smaller companies are prioritizing flexibility and speed to market, while larger life science and advanced manufacturing users continue to seek facilities capable of supporting significant power, water, and operational needs.

For Wake County, these trends reinforce what continues to make the region competitive. Companies are drawn to the area’s strong talent pipeline, established industry ecosystem, and business environment. As project requirements evolve, communities that can provide infrastructure readiness, available real estate inventory, and speed-to-market solutions will be best positioned to attract the next generation of investment.