Microsoft Build Conference Moving From Seattle After Years of Hosting in the City

Microsoft Build Conference Relocates: A Shift from Seattle

Since its inception in 2011, the Microsoft Build conference has served as a cornerstone event for developers. In 2017, the venue shifted from San Francisco to Seattle, promoting accessibility for Microsoft’s engineers and executives, thereby enriching the overall attendee experience. However, recent developments indicate that this shifting landscape is changing once more.

Announcement of Relocation

Today, Jonathan Choe shared breaking news via X, revealing that Microsoft is moving its Build conference out of Seattle. This information surfaced from an email by Visit Seattle, a private organization focused on promoting the city as a travel destination. This transition signifies a potential loss of around 9, 314 hotel room nights annually for Seattle’s accommodation providers.

Reasons Behind the Move

The communication from Visit Seattle shed light on Microsoft’s motivations for this decision. Primarily, the tech giant feels that the Build conference has experienced a decline in enthusiasm following the COVID-19 pandemic. Competing events, particularly Google I/O, have further complicated efforts to sustain robust attendance.

Vision for Future Events

Microsoft’s leadership anticipates that relocating the conference will help them revitalize the Build experience and draw a larger crowd. Speculations suggest that the conference may find its new home in either San Francisco or Las Vegas by 2026.

#BREAKING: Seattle restauranteur David Meinert says the massive Microsoft Build (@Microsoft) developer conference won’t be returning to Seattle next year after attendees complained about urban decay, open-air drug use, and numerous tents lining the streets.🧵👇 pic.twitter.com/PJs9VYT1TK

— Jonathan Choe (@choeshow) June 6, 2025

Concerns About Local Conditions

The circumstances surrounding the city’s environment contributed significantly to Microsoft’s decision. During the previous conference, attendees and company leaders expressed dissatisfaction regarding visible issues such as public drug use and sparse homeless encampments, notably near the Hyatt Regency and Arch Building. This deterioration in urban conditions reportedly influenced Microsoft’s choice to seek a new venue.

Potential Implications for Seattle

The departure of Microsoft’s flagship conference could lead to significant political ramifications within the Seattle mayor’s office. Critics may point to this development as a symptom of broader urban challenges and the city’s inadequate response to improving downtown conditions.

As the tech industry continues to evolve, the relocation of significant events like Microsoft Build could reshape the economic landscape for the city of Seattle, highlighting the need for ongoing attention to urban challenges.

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