Why Multifamily Developers Are Replacing Empty Gyms with Wellness Amenities That Boost NOI
- luis M
- Sep 21
- 2 min read
The Rise of Human-First Amenities in Multifamily
For years, stainless steel appliances and rooftop decks defined luxury apartments. But today’s residents expect more. They’re not just renting a unit — they’re choosing a lifestyle. And the data is clear: human-first wellness amenities are becoming the number one driver of retention and NOI growth in multifamily communities.
The Problem with Empty Fitness Centers
Walk into most apartment gyms and you’ll see it: unused treadmills, outdated equipment, and no sense of community. These “stagnant” amenities look good on a brochure but don’t deliver measurable returns. Property managers are left asking: Is this space really adding value to my asset?
The answer is often no.
The New Standard: Activated Wellness Programs
Instead of an empty fitness room, multifamily leaders are now investing in staffed, white-label wellness amenities that deliver:
70%+ resident engagement through classes, personal training, and nutrition support
$100–$300 rent premiums tied to health-focused amenities
Higher retention rates as residents build connections around shared wellness experiences
Faster lease-ups because wellness differentiates your property in a crowded market
NOI Impact: From Cost Center to Profit Driver
Traditionally, amenities were seen as expenses. But wellness is different. When properly activated, a single on-site wellness program can:
Increase NOI by 5–15% through retention and rent premiums
Reduce turnover costs, saving thousands per unit annually
Create a long-term differentiator that competitors can’t replicate with stainless steel appliances alone
Why Developers Are Making the Switch
Forward-thinking operators like Greystar, AvalonBay, and Bozzuto are already rethinking their amenity mix. Why? Because residents are demanding it:
76% of renters say they’d pay more for wellness-focused amenities (Global Wellness Institute)
2 in 3 residents rank “health and fitness” as a top priority when choosing where to live
Case in Point: Elite Wellness Amenity Group
At Elite Wellness Amenity Group, we transform underused gyms into thriving, NOI-positive wellness centers — without requiring CapEx. Our white-glove, human-first model integrates seamlessly into your property, providing:
On-site trainers and coaches
Group classes and resident wellness events
Nutrition consultations and lifestyle programming
Technology dashboards that track resident satisfaction and financial impact
The Bottom Line
Multifamily operators who ignore wellness risk falling behind. Empty gyms don’t create retention — but activated wellness amenities turn square footage into NOI growth.
If you’re looking to increase retention, accelerate lease-ups, and boost NOI, it’s time to rethink your approach to fitness amenities.