By Terrison Quinn, Managing Principal, SRS Real Estate Partners Despite the headwinds facing the Orange County retail property sector in 2021, retailers experienced record sales, while shopping center owners realized all-time-high property values. Orange County’s retail vacancy rate also decreased in 2021 from 4.58 percent to 4.32 percent as compared to 2020, according to CoStar. Meanwhile, rents increased from $33.12 per square foot, per year to $34.55 per square foot, per year — back to pre-pandemic levels. There are many reasons for these impressive numbers, though less stringent COVID rules and the solid job market may be two key drivers. Orange County remained less restrictive on businesses than neighboring Los Angeles County. The county also seems to have been the economic benefactor given the less severe climb out of the vacancy and unemployment challenges that were experienced through the pandemic. Orange County’s job market was hit hard during the pandemic with its large employment base in hospitality and leisure. However, it bounced back quickly with Disneyland re-opening and others hiring thousands of workers amongst robust consumer demand. Orange County’s job market is also recognized as one of the more diverse and higher paying counties in Southern California. Investors Continue to Eye Orange County as the Gold Standard …
