Investors in dense urban areas are increasingly turning to unconventional assets. These “strange” investments often ride niche trends or exploit underused resources. Some are speculative. Others have shown staying power. Here are eight surprising investments growing fast in major cities.
Data Centers & Server Farms
As demand for cloud computing, AI, and streaming rises, data infrastructure becomes a hot asset. Investors are funding data center construction or owning shares in facilities. In many places, utilities and land access matter more than local foot traffic. The data center boom is reshaping how urban infrastructure is valued.
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Vertical Farming Rights
Some investors are buying rights or equities in vertical farming businesses inside city buildings. These farms grow produce year-round using hydroponics or aeroponics. In dense cities where farmland is scarce, these operations can command premium returns.
Leaseable Rooftop Space
Unused rooftop areas on urban buildings are being monetized. Investors lease these spaces for urban gardens, solar installations, billboard displays, or small event venues. Because land is expensive, rooftops become a second frontier.
Parking Lot Airspace
In cities, airspace above properties is a legal asset. Some investors are buying “air rights” above parking lots or garages to build over or hang structures (e.g. signage, mini-structures). With zoning changes, that vertical value is rising.
Micro-Warehouse Pods
With eCommerce growth and last-mile delivery demand, small modular warehouses or storage pods inside urban areas are in demand. Investors lease pods, micro-units, or shipping container warehouses within city limits to logistics firms or retailers.
Digital Billboard Signage
Large digital billboards in busy districts or along major city corridors generate advertising revenue. Instead of owning physical real estate, some investors stake in digital ad space ownership—earning from ad rotation contracts.
Premium EV Charging Stations
With electric vehicle adoption surging, high-end charge stations are a breeding ground for investment. In dense neighborhoods or business districts, owning or leasing fast chargers yields recurring revenue in cities where public infrastructure is often inadequate.
Fractional Ownership of Luxury Storage Units
Some investors buy shares of high-security, climate-controlled storage facilities in affluent urban neighborhoods. These units cater to owners of art, wines, antiques, or designer goods. The model works like real estate crowdfunding; but tied to storage demand.
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The article 8 Strange Investments Gaining Popularity in Big Cities first appeared on Cents + Purpose.