9 statistics that show how Amazon’s return to office is helping to bolster Seattle businesses

Amazon employs 55,000 tech and corporate employees in Seattle’s urban campus and an additional 10,000 in Bellevue and the Eastside, in Washington. Since May 2, 2023, these teams have been coming back to their downtown offices at least three days a week.

From increased foot traffic at local businesses to increased ridership on public transportation, Amazon’s decision has contributed to additional economic vibrancy for the cities. This not only supports the businesses themselves, but also the people they hire for jobs across industries like retail and hospitality. In fact, through analyzing foot traffic and anonymized transaction data from May 2020-2022 to 2023, we've seen the following increases in South Lake Union (SLU) and Denny Regrade:

82% increase in foot traffic and the number of people in SLU. In the Denny Regrade, where our largest buildings are located, we saw a 56% increase in foot traffic.
86% increase in credit card transactions at SLU restaurants. Transactions in dining places increased by 86% and transactions at hotels in the area jumped 92%.
101% and 109% increase in credit card transactions at hotels and restaurants in the Denny Regrade neighborhood. Amazon alone booked 26,500 hotel nights in Seattle in May 2023, an over 130% increase from the May 2020-2022 periods.

Four people are walking across a large sidewalk between Amazon buildings.

Photo by Lucas Jackson

"Since we started welcoming employees back three days a week this May, the energy in Amazon’s offices and around the neighborhood has been amazing," said John Schoettler, vice president of Global Real Estate and Facilities. "We know our presence here helps power the regional economy, encourages small business growth, supports the creation of even more local jobs, and is important for the revitalization of downtown. There is a renewed sense of vibrancy that I think the community can feel and we’re proud to be here doing our part."

Two men are sitting at a table across from each other, talking and eating lunch. They are in silhouette, and the Seattle Spheres building looms large in the background

Photo by Lucas Jackson

Below are the latest stats that showcase the role that Amazon helps to play in Seattle’s economy. Learn more in this brief about the impact of Amazon’s return to office in downtown Seattle.