Chennai's real estate market has transformed dramatically over the past 25 years, with office leasing increasing 75-fold to 76.5 million sq. ft by the first half of 2024, according to a recent JLL report. This growth is largely driven by the IT/ITES sector and the rise of Global Capability Centers (GCCs), positioning Chennai as a major GCC hub in Tamil Nadu, which now holds 12% of India’s GCC market share.
Chennai’s economic landscape has diversified significantly, with the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector making up 15% of the national footprint. Notably, 60% of Fortune-listed BFSI technology operations are located in Tamil Nadu.
Siva Krishnan, Senior Managing Director at JLL, remarked on the city’s remarkable evolution from a manufacturing hub to a diversified economic powerhouse, emphasizing its readiness to leverage emerging trends in technology and urban living.
The residential sector has also expanded impressively, with housing units increasing from 10,100 in 1999 to 275,000 by mid-2024—a 27-fold growth. Property values have surged, ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000 per sq. ft in 2024, compared to Rs 850-2,500 in 1999. Post-COVID, the rise in end users has led to a boom in plotted development projects in suburban areas.
The report highlights that the implementation of RERA has enhanced market transparency and accountability, contributing to a surge in residential projects along metro corridors. Major infrastructure projects like Kilambakkam Bus Terminus and Parandur have been added in 2024.
The logistics and industrial sector has also flourished, growing from 1.0 million sq. ft in 1999 to 50 million sq. ft in 2024—a 50-fold increase—driven by the city's strategic location and government initiatives for manufacturing and exports. Notably, Tamil Nadu accounts for about 40% of India's EV manufacturing.
Retail space has expanded six-fold, from 1.17 million sq. ft to 7.1 million sq. ft, reflecting the city’s rising affluence and changing consumer preferences.
Chennai has emerged as a key Data Center hub, now the second-largest in India with a colocation capacity of 88 MW. The city boasts six cable landing stations, a strong power supply, and a skilled talent pool, making it an ideal location for data centers. With two main hubs in Ambattur and Siruseri, Chennai is well-positioned for the future digital economy.
