In a transformative trend, several U.S. cities are repurposing empty department stores to accommodate their growing populations. Cleveland is leading the charge, utilizing abandoned retail spaces to house its increasing Gen Z demographic. The city has ranked among the top 10 for office-to-apartment conversions, even as some projects face delays. Similarly, Philadelphia is at the forefront of this movement, showcasing significant growth in office-to-apartment conversions. Meanwhile, Phoenix also stands out as a major player in this transformation, making substantial strides in converting unused office spaces into residential units.