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owntown Brooklyn is experiencing a surge in new development, with the neighborhood's biggest housing year on record. According to the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership's real estate team, over 3,700 units were completed in the first six months of 2025, shattering the previous record and surpassing even the pre-pandemic levels. This residential boom has transformed the area into a powerhouse, with thousands more units slated for completion by 2026.

    The neighborhood's evolution is reminiscent of Manhattan's Financial District, where commercial spaces gave way to residential areas. Appraiser Jonathan Miller notes that Downtown Brooklyn is undergoing a similar transformation, with its commercial district converting to a significant residential neighborhood. Recently completed projects include the Rocklyn at 20 Rockwell Place and the Everly at 180 Ashland Place.

    The influx of new units has made Downtown Brooklyn the top-ranked neighborhood in Brooklyn for housing availability on Apartments.com, surpassing Park Slope and Williamsburg. However, Miller warns that the significant increase in new development will likely drive up housing costs. Despite this, residential foot traffic has skyrocketed, with a nearly 97% boost above pre-pandemic levels.

    Commercial development is also thriving, with new stores like Nike and Lidl opening in the area. The neighborhood's well-connected corridor, featuring 12 subway lines and easy access to the Atlantic Terminal, makes it an attractive destination for newcomers. With thousands more units planned for completion by 2026, Downtown Brooklyn shows no signs of slowing down its building boom.