Why is Philadelphia's office occupancy rate so low?

Philadelphia consistently ranks low in office occupancy, with many employees preferring remote work even after mandates.

Are Philadelphia employees working remotely after swiping in?

Reports suggest some Philadelphia workers swipe into the office but then work remotely from home.

Which big cities have the worst office occupancy rates?

Philadelphia and San Francisco are among the worst big cities for office occupancy, according to recent data.

Home / Business and Economy / Philly's Empty Offices: Return-to-Work Falters

Philly's Empty Offices: Return-to-Work Falters

15 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Philadelphia ranks second-to-last in office occupancy among major US cities.
Only 40.3% of Philadelphia workers were in offices on the slowest day last week.
Some Philadelphia employees reportedly 'swipe in' then work remotely from home.

Philly's Empty Offices: Return-to-Work Falters

Workers in Philadelphia are returning to the office at a notably slow pace compared to other major US cities. Security firm Kastle Systems data reveals that Philadelphia's metropolitan area, home to over six million people, ranks among the worst for office occupancy. Last week, only 40.3% of employees were present on the slowest day, with 51.2% on the busiest, placing it second-to-last among ten measured metro areas.

Despite directives from large employers such as Comcast mandating four days a week in the office, employee compliance appears low. Reports indicate some workers are physically present only to 'swipe in' before resuming work remotely from home. This resistance is further evidenced by Philadelphia's average of 36.1% office occupancy since March 2020, a rate higher than only San Francisco and San Jose during that period.