How Many Jobs Are Available in Real Estate Investment Trusts a Good Career?
Are you considering a career in real estate investment trusts (REITs)? You’re not alone. With the real estate market constantly evolving and growing, REITs are opening doors to various career paths, from finance and acquisitions to marketing and property management. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into how many jobs are available in real estate investment trusts, explore the roles you can pursue, and examine the REIT industry employment outlook.
Whether you’re a student, a fresh graduate, or someone looking to transition into a new industry, this article will provide everything you need to know about real estate investment trust careers.
What Is a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT)?
Before we explore job availability, let’s briefly define a REIT. A Real Estate Investment Trust is a company that owns, operates, or finances income-producing real estate across a range of property sectors. Think malls, apartment complexes, data centers, office buildings, and more. These companies generate revenue primarily through rental income and are publicly traded, similar to stocks.
REITs are required to distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders, which makes them highly attractive to investors and a vital part of the real estate ecosystem.
Why Choose a Career in a REIT?
Working in a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) can open the door to a diverse, rewarding, and stable career. Whether it’s managing towering office spaces or overseeing large-scale logistics facilities, REITs handle billions in real estate assets and rely on talented professionals across various fields.
Some of the top reasons to consider a REIT career include:
- Attractive, competitive salaries
- Robust benefits packages that support your health and future
- Clear paths for growth and advancement within the organization
- Hands-on experience in both the real estate and finance industries
How Many Jobs Are Available in Real Estate Investment Trusts?
While exact numbers fluctuate with market conditions, it’s estimated that more than 300,000 people are directly employed in the REIT industry in the U.S. alone. Globally, that number rises significantly, particularly as REIT models expand into Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
As of 2025:
- Publicly listed real estate investment trusts (REITs) employ approximately 200,000 professionals in the United States.
- Private REITs and associated property management companies account for another 100,000+ jobs.
Indirect employment, including that of third-party vendors, construction crews, and legal professionals, also contributes to the increase. These professionals provide services to REITs, thereby creating additional job opportunities within the real estate investment trust (REIT) industry. In other words, the REIT job opportunities are abundant, and demand remains strong.
Types of Jobs in Real Estate Investment Trusts
There are numerous career paths within the real estate investment trust (REIT) industry. Below are the most common categories:
1. Asset Management
Professionals in this role are responsible for maximizing the value of real estate portfolios. They analyze property performance, recommend improvements, and ensure investment goals are met.
2. Property Management
Where do on-the-ground operations happen? Property managers oversee tenant relations, maintenance, rent collection, and compliance.
3. Acquisitions and Dispositions
These teams evaluate potential property purchases and sales. Their job includes conducting due diligence, negotiating deals, and forecasting returns.
4. Finance and Accounting
From budgeting and forecasting to SEC reporting, these roles are essential. Financial analysts, controllers, and accountants ensure that real estate investment trusts (REITs) operate smoothly.
5. Investor Relations
REITs are publicly traded, so they need teams to manage communications with shareholders, analysts, and the press.
6. Legal and Compliance
Legal professionals assist REITs in navigating real estate laws, contracts, and SEC regulations.
7. Development and Construction
Some REITs engage in property development. That requires project managers, engineers, and construction experts.
8. Human Resources and Administration
Like any large corporation, REITs require HR professionals to recruit talent, manage benefits, and cultivate a positive workplace culture.
9. Marketing and Leasing
These teams work to promote properties, attract tenants, and manage brand presence both online and offline.
10. Technology and Data Analytics
Modern REITs leverage data for better decision-making. Roles in IT, cybersecurity, and analytics are increasingly in demand.
Entry-Level Jobs in REITs
If you’re new to the industry, don’t worry. Numerous entry-level jobs in REITs can serve as stepping stones to more senior positions. Examples include:
- Leasing Agent – A frontline role dealing with tenants and showings
- Financial Analyst – Crunch numbers for acquisitions or asset performance
- Property Administrator – Support property managers in day-to-day operations
- Marketing Assistant – Help promote and lease properties
- Junior Accountant – Handle bookkeeping and assist with audits
Most entry-level roles require a bachelor’s degree in a field related to real estate, finance, or business. Internships or prior experience in property management can also be helpful.
Skills Required to Succeed in REIT Careers
Regardless of the role, some skills are universally valued in REIT careers:
- Analytical thinking
- Communication and negotiation skills
- Attention to detail
- Understanding of financial modeling
- Project management
- Tech proficiency (Excel, CRM platforms, real estate software)
Having strong soft skills such as being a team player, staying flexible, and keeping the customer in mind can make a significant difference in your success.
Salary Expectations in the REIT Industry
Salaries in REITs vary depending on the role, experience, and location. Here’s a general breakdown:
RoleAverage Annual Salary (U.S.)
Asset Manager $100,000 – $150,000
Property Manager $60,000 – $90,000
Financial Analyst $70,000 – $95,000
Leasing Consultant $45,000 – $65,000
Development Project Manager $110,000 – $160,000
Investor Relations Manager $90,000 – $130,000
These numbers can increase with bonuses, stock options, and performance incentives.
REIT Job Opportunities in the U.S. and Globally
In the U.S., major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Dallas are hubs for REIT employment. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Globally, markets such as Singapore, the UK, the UAE, and Canada are experiencing rapid growth in REITs, creating international job opportunities.
Multinational REITs often hire across regions, providing room for relocation, remote work, and global exposure.
The REIT Industry Employment Outlook
The REIT industry employment outlook is promising. Several trends are driving this:
- Increased urbanization and population growth fuel demand for housing, office space, and logistics centers.
- Technological innovation in real estate (PropTech) creates roles in analytics and automation.
- Global REIT expansion leads to increased cross-border hiring.
- Sustainable and green buildings are becoming standard, creating a niche for environmental and sustainability experts.
According to industry projections, REIT employment is expected to grow by 6-8% annually through 2030.
Tips for Getting Hired in a REIT
Ready to break into the industry? Here are a few tips:
- Start with internships – Many REITs offer summer internships for undergraduates.
- Get certified – Consider programs like the Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) or Real Estate Financial Modeling (REFM).
- Network – Attend real estate conferences and job fairs. LinkedIn is your friend.
- Tailor your resume – Highlight relevant skills and use keywords specific to the role.
- Stay informed by following industry trends, REIT updates, and new technologies. Staying ahead helps you stay one step ahead.
Conclusion
So, how many jobs are available in real estate investment trusts? The answer is a lot. With over 300,000 roles in the U.S. alone and more popping up globally, REIT job opportunities are expansive, diverse, and rewarding.
Whether you’re eyeing entry-level jobs in REITs or aiming for senior roles in asset management or acquisitions, this industry offers a wealth of possibilities. With strong growth forecasts and a range of roles across finance, operations, and marketing, the REIT sector is one of the most exciting places to build a career today.
If you’re ready to step into a dynamic, high-growth environment, now’s the time to explore a career in real estate investment trusts.
Are you looking to polish your resume or cover letter for a REIT position? Or you may need a personalized job search plan that aligns with your career goals. I’ve got you covered. Please don’t hesitate to reach out; I’m here to help!
FAQs
1. What qualifications are required to work in a REIT?
Most REIT positions require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in fields such as finance, real estate, business, or economics. For specialized roles, such as those in law or development, advanced degrees or certifications (like the CFA, CPA, or CCIM) may be required.
2. Are REIT jobs only available in large cities?
Large urban hubs, such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, are hubs for REITs; many REITs operate nationwide, including in suburban and secondary markets. Remote and hybrid roles are also becoming more common, especially in finance and investor relations.
3. Can I get a job in a REIT without prior real estate experience?
Yes, especially for entry-level jobs in real estate investment trusts (REITs). Roles in administration, marketing, finance, and customer service often hire candidates with transferable skills from other industries. Internships and networking can also help break into the field.
4. What is the career growth potential in the REIT industry?
The career growth in REITs is strong, thanks to the expanding real estate sector. Many professionals begin in entry-level positions and advance to senior roles within a few years, particularly in asset management, acquisitions, or development.
5. Do REIT jobs offer good salaries and benefits?
Absolutely. REIT careers are recognized for offering competitive salaries, bonuses, stock options, comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, and other attractive benefits. Compensation often increases with experience and performance.
