London ranks second globally for tech talent as AI firms increase office requirements in the capital
In its newly released Global Tech Markets 2025 report, Colliers ranks London as only behind the San Francisco Bay area as a top talent location of technology and AI firms.
The city outperformed global heavyweights like New York and Seattle, driven by its deep talent pool and world-class academic institutions.
The study, which analyses more than 200 global cities based on talent depth, venture capital flows, productivity, and academic infrastructure, reveals that EMEA is the most widely represented region in the global top 50, accounting for 22 (44%) of ranked cities. Within EMEA, London ranks first as a tech talent market, with Paris and Dublin coming in second and third respectively.
Stuart Melrose, head of London Tenant Representation at Colliers, commented: “This report shows that not only is London Europe’s primary tech hub, but that it is a significant presence on a global scale, outranking the likes of New York and Beijing.
“The capital continues to be the destination of choice for tech occupiers seeking office space. Access to a highly skilled and diverse talent pool, an established reputation for innovation, and world-class infrastructure make London uniquely positioned to support the growth ambitions of tech and AI firms.”
As advanced technologies such as AI and cybersecurity reshape hiring patterns, Colliers notes that leading occupiers are:
- Moving from capital-centric to distributed talent models
- Using real-time talent and academic data to forecast expansion
- Prioritising productivity per square metre rather than pure headcount
“Europe is now the proving ground for smart, scalable, and evidence-based location strategy,” added Andrew Hallissey, CEO of Global Occupier Services at Colliers. “It’s no longer just about where you can grow – but where you can grow best.”
The findings from the Global Tech Market report are echoed in the active requirements for London office space notes Colliers. AI and fintech now accounts for 45% of the 1.4 million sq ft of requirements from tech firms, double what was being tracked for this time last year.