Introduction
Occupying the very heart of Toronto, the densely populated Financial District is city living at its most luxurious. Tall towers fill the blocks south of Queen Street and north of Front, bounded by University and Yonge to the east and west. Nestled right in the centre of commerce, the condos and apartments here are defined by their elegance, privacy, and convenience.
Lifestyle
The lifestyle in Financial District is somewhat of a contradiction. Home to some of Toronto’s most exclusive residences, it’s also right next to series of crowded downtown shopping malls. Bankers, lawyers, and stockerbrokers all walk to work via the PATH, and have easy access to out-of-town escapes via the nearby waterfront airport. Trendy bars and the best in fine dining are populated by well-heeled young professionals.
Dollars & Sense
While highrise apartments are definitely for A-listers, some smaller condos on the edges of the Financial District can be had for less than in Cabbagetown or the west end. Restaurants and coffee shops run the gamut from inexpensive grab-and-go to the most exclusive and costly cuisine in the city.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
The Financial District looks somewhat empty on the weekends, except for Hudson’s Bay, which tends to be filled with weekend shoppers year round. Those restaurants that remain open uphold Toronto’s international reputation as a foodie destination. While the Financial District does not host any schools, hospitals, or large parks, its central location means that it is not far from any of these, all easily reachable by subway, streetcar or taxi.
Distance from City Hall
0.5 km
0.5 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
The PATH system of underground walkways allows downtown dwellers to get to work without ever encountering snowy days or wind tunnels. Union Station is the hub of arrivals and departures in Toronto, with the subway, GO Transit, and VIA Rail all merging in one building. Driving is congested and parking is both limited and expensive, but cabs are easily hailed, and streetcars flow steadily along both King and Queen Streets.
In the Area
City Hall sits atop the Financial District, marking it as the centre of civic governance in Toronto. The adjoining Nathan Phillip Square hosts a farmer’s market, countless festivals, the finishing line for the ScotiaBank Marathon, as well as ice-skating for local enthusiasts. The Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, renowned for its sophisticated architecture and superior acoustics, is home to the National Ballet and the Canadian Opera Company.
Meet the Neighbours
A haven for busy professionals, the Financial District is wonderful for singletons or busy couples who don’t want to commute from the suburbs. High-flyers who live between cities like the security and convenience of a doorman and other built-in services, such as dog-walkers, laundry service, and room service. Young families tend to move away when their children are old enough to attend school fulltime, or send them out of the neighbourhood for private education.
The Vibe
Private residences in famous hotels or tall condo towers amidst large financial buildings do not allow for much of a neighbourly feel on the street. Some buildings, however, have little communities within their walls, allowing residents as much connection or anonymity as they wish. Sidewalks are riddled with trendy restaurants filled with both locals and tourists, and impressive works of public art stand in for green parks.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Richmond Station
This small hideaway is loved by locals for its unpretentious atmosphere, current menu and ever-changing list of complicated but delicious cocktails. Diners may sport business suits or fashionable ensembles.
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The Design Exchange
Housed in the historic Toronto Stock Exchange building, the Design Exchange is Canada’s only museum dedicated to design. Exhibits examine everything from furniture and architecture to graphics and fashion, drawing famed international artists.
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The Royal York Hotel
The longest standing hotel in Toronto, the Royal York is not just for visitors. Epic Restaurant and the Library Bar are both popular places for locals to lounge, and the rooftop garden boasts the only apiary downtown.
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Toronto Athletic Club
Located on the 36th floor of the TD South Tower on Wellington Street, the Toronto Athletic Club has the latest in fitness equipment and an unequalled view of Lake Ontario.
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Hudson’s Bay
The iconic Hudson’s Bay at Queen and Yonge, first built in 1896, is host to TopShop, Kleinfelds and the designer collection in The Room. It connects to both the Eaton Centre and Bay Adelaide Centre.
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Demographic Data
Financial District
Commute
Wheels
Cheers!
Habits
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