Market Pulse • September 15, 2025

Khan Market Slips to 24th Globally But Remains India’s Most Expensive Retail Destination at $223/sq ft

Even with a slide in global standings, Khan Market outpaces all Indian high streets in rental value.

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By Propzine – Bengaluru’s Trusted PropTech Platform

Delhi’s prestigious Khan Market may have dropped one spot in the global high-street rankings, but its dominance in India’s retail landscape remains undisputed. According to Cushman & Wakefield’s November 18, 2025 report, Khan Market retail rent 2025 reached $223 per sq ft, posting a 3% year-on-year growth despite global macroeconomic volatility. The iconic shopping district, known for its luxury boutiques, premium cafés, and legacy brands, continues to command the highest rents in the country and retain its stature as the most expensive high street in India.

While its global ranking slipped from 23rd to 24th, Khan Market’s steady performance signals a resilient demand cycle. At a time when many global retail corridors are grappling with slower leasing, shifts in consumer behaviour, and rising operational costs, Khan Market has held its ground showcasing the strength of India’s urban retail fundamentals.

Khan Market’s 3% Rental Growth Underscores Its Retail Magnetism

The report highlights that Khan Market saw 3% YoY rental appreciation, reaffirming its ability to attract consistent footfall and maintain high occupancy. Its unique tenant mix spanning international labels, designer stores, flagship food brands, and premium wellness outlets—continues to command strong interest from both established retailers and new entrants.

This resilience also stems from its geographic advantage. Located in the heart of Lutyens’ Delhi, the market serves an affluent consumer base with high spending capacity. Its tightly held real estate, limited supply of prime storefronts, and heritage-driven charm further elevate its desirability. For brands seeking visibility, prestige, and high conversion rates, Khan Market remains unmatched within India’s retail ecosystem.

London’s New Bond Street Tops the Globe at $2,231 per sq ft

In contrast to Khan Market’s steady positioning, London’s New Bond Street reclaimed the title of the world’s costliest retail location, with rents soaring to $2,231 per sq ft. The street outperformed other global luxury corridors including New York’s Fifth Avenue and Hong Kong’s Canton Road, reflecting the resilient demand for ultra-luxury goods across Europe

Cushman & Wakefield notes that high-end retail continues to benefit from strong tourism inflows, affluent local buyers, and the rising appetite for experiential luxury. While New Bond Street leads the global rankings by a wide margin, Khan Market’s presence within the top 25 reflects India’s fast-evolving status as a significant global retail market.

India’s Retail Rent Growth Outperforms Global and APAC Markets

Beyond individual high-street rankings, the biggest highlight of the report is India’s 6% retail rental growth, which surpasses global and Asia-Pacific averages. This exceptional performance is rooted in three structural trends: the rise of aspirational consumption, expansion of organised retail, and sustained demand from international brands entering India.

Major metros including Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Hyderabad—have seen strong leasing momentum driven by fashion, electronics, F&B, and luxury segments. For markets like Khan Market, this upward trend reflects not just past resilience but future growth potential. As India’s retail economy matures, high-street corridors are emerging as preferred locations for brands seeking premium visibility without the constraints of mall-led retail formats.

Delhi Retail Real Estate Remains a Powerhouse in India’s Consumption Story

In the broader Delhi retail real estate rent landscape, Khan Market’s performance continues to set a benchmark. Connaught Place, South Extension, and Select Citywalk’s larger ecosystem support Delhi’s position as India’s most dynamic retail hotspot. With increasing global attention and steady domestic demand, New Delhi remains the epicentre of premium retail leasing.

For retailers evaluating expansion strategies, the capital city offers a diverse spread of affluent catchments, robust infrastructure, and high spending power. Against this backdrop, Khan Market’s continued dominance illustrates the enduring value of heritage-led, high-footfall retail clusters.

Conclusion: Despite a Global Slip, Khan Market Continues to Define India’s Luxury Retail Identity

Khan Market’s movement from 23rd to 24th in the global rankings may draw attention, but the underlying story is far more compelling. With $223/sq ft rent in 2025, steady 3% YoY growth, and unchallenged leadership as India’s most expensive high street, it remains a symbol of premium retail power in the country. India’s broader 6% rental growth, outperforming global and APAC averages, only amplifies the sector’s strong fundamentals.

For policymakers, retailers, and investors, the message is clear India’s consumption engine is accelerating, and markets like Khan Market are at the forefront of this transformation.