San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie Declares City "Open for Business" Amidst Economic Revitalization Efforts

San Francisco, CA – Mayor Daniel Lurie has signaled a significant shift in the city's approach to economic development, emphasizing a strong welcome for successful businesses. This pro-business stance marks a notable departure from previous perceptions and is central to his administration's strategy for urban renewal. John Loeber, a long-time San Francisco resident, encapsulated this sentiment in a recent tweet, stating, > "It’s incredible that in my entire memory of being an SF resident, Daniel Lurie is the first mayor to say ‘man it’s great to have successful businesses in our town. We’re open for more’."

Lurie, who took office in January 2025 after defeating incumbent London Breed in the 2024 mayoral election, campaigned on a platform of restoring public safety, tackling homelessness, and revitalizing San Francisco's economy. His election reflected a desire for change among voters concerned about the city's post-pandemic challenges, including high office vacancy rates and a perception of declining urban quality. Lurie, a political newcomer and founder of the anti-poverty nonprofit Tipping Point Community, positioned himself as an outsider ready to deliver common-sense results.

Since assuming office, Mayor Lurie has prioritized attracting and retaining businesses, aiming to diversify the city's economic landscape beyond its traditional tech dominance. He has explicitly stated that San Francisco is "open for business" across all sectors, including healthcare, arts, and culture. His administration has introduced legislation to streamline housing approvals and facilitate the conversion of empty office buildings into residential spaces, addressing key concerns for both businesses and residents.

Early indicators suggest a positive response to these efforts. Preliminary data from real estate firm CBRE in the second quarter of 2025 showed a decline in San Francisco's downtown core office vacancy rate, marking the largest quarterly decrease since 2015. Additionally, median home list prices in downtown ZIP codes surged by 51% compared to the previous year, signaling renewed confidence in the city's housing market. Lurie's administration is also focused on public safety, aiming to hire 425 new police officers, sheriff’s deputies, and 911 dispatchers within his first three years to ensure a safer environment for businesses and residents alike.