Amazon Targets Miami for Expansion Following Other Billionaires

Amazon’s expansion radar is now set on the city of Miami, aiming to lease an impressive 50,000 square feet of office space, as confirmed by a company spokesperson. This move aligns with the company’s ongoing organic growth strategy, particularly in the Miami area, further strengthening its presence in this emerging tech hub.

This news comes on the heels of Amazon’s founder, Jeff Bezos, announcing his relocation from Seattle to Miami — a city that’s been increasingly drawing influential tech giants. Bezos, who called Seattle home for close to three decades, is joining the rush to the city that’s fast becoming the new epicenter of tech innovation and influence.

One of the main driving factors behind Amazon’s pursuit of additional office space in Miami is its commitment to its employees and businesses. By evaluating space plans based on their needs, Amazon is affirming its dedication to providing optimal working conditions for its over 400 corporate and tech employees currently serving in various serviced office locations in the Miami area. The new Miami base would mark a substantial step forward in the company’s expansion.

Taking a broader look, Bezos is no stranger to Miami’s allure. He recently made headlines with his high-profile real-estate purchases in Miami’s prestigious Indian Creek area, often referred to as the “Billionaire Bunker.” Bezos’ new acquisitions include a staggering $79 million mansion, plus an adjoining property bought earlier for $68 million.

According to Bloomberg, “Office availability is now below pre-pandemic levels in 2019, according to third-quarter data from brokerage CBRE Group Inc. The ‘unprecedented’ demand means there will likely be little top-quality office space in the city lingering on the market, CBRE said. It’s also led landlords to raise rents.”

Bezos isn’t the only high-profile billionaire drawn to the Miami area. Other tech moguls, such as Eric Schmidt (former CEO and chair of Google) and Republican megadonor Ken Griffin, have made similar moves. Most notably, Griffin shifted the global headquarters of his colossal hedge fund, Citadel, from Chicago to Miami last year, echoing the city’s rising status as a promising tech and financial hub.