National Industrial Index.

The index provides a snapshot analysis that ranks the nation's top 24 industrial markets based on expected employment growth, vacancy level, construction activity and rent growth. Taking into account both the forecast level and degree of change over the forecast period, it is designed to indicate relative supply and demand conditions in individual markets.

Seattle claimed the third position as its healthy high-tech and aerospace industries continue to generate demand for local warehouse and flex space, while the region's elevated development costs provide insulation against overbuilding. Miami climbed two spots to number four due to its low vacancy rate and above-average rent growth. Portland rose six places to number five, as infrastructure improvements at its port and spillover from other West Coast ports bolstered warehouse demand. Oakland's nine-spot jump to number six represents the largest move in the ranking, a leap based on record-breaking port activity.

Fallout from the housing downturn weakened employment growth in Orange County, causing it to slip four places to number seven, while New York City-Northern New Jersey dropped three places to number eight due to increased construction and decelerating job growth. Despite a high level of construction, Dallas/Fort Worth comes in at number nine due to a forecast of some of the nation's strongest employment gains, absorption and rent growth. San Francisco rounds out the top 10 this year, as healthy hiring, particularly by technology firms, supports demand for flex space in this supply-constrained market.