Recessions expose the strengths and weaknesses of every investment portfolio—but in commercial real estate, some asset classes consistently rise above the volatility. While economic downturns often lead to higher vacancies, tighter lending conditions, and declining property values, not all sectors are equally vulnerable. In fact, a select group of asset classes tend to outperform, offering dependable cash flow and tenant stability even in uncertain times.

These recession-resistant properties share a few key traits: they serve essential needs, attract long-term tenants, and demonstrate historically low vacancy rates regardless of economic conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned investor rebalancing your portfolio or a new buyer looking for durable assets, understanding where to deploy capital in a recession is critical.

In this post, we’ll break down the top three commercial real estate sectors that offer resilience during downturns—industrial real estate, medical office buildings, and necessity-based retail. Each has its own strengths, challenges, and long-term outlook—but together, they represent a strong foundation for any investor looking to build a portfolio that can weather the next economic storm.

Let’s dive in.