Bustling commercial center by day, quiet waterfront outpost by night, the Financial District (FiDi) is one of New York City's most delightfully perplexing neighborhoods.

Bordered from North to South by Chambers Street to the southern tip of Manhattan and from East to West by the East River to the West Side Highway, FiDi is home to Wall Street, the Freedom Tower, and the oldest standing churches in New York.

AccessibilityAccessibility

This fast-paced financial hub is a favorite amongst those who prioritize public transit. Droves of working professionals take the subway to and from FiDi daily, as there are 16 stations within the neighborhood servicing the (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, A, C, R, M, J, Z & W) trains. In addition, the Brooklyn Bridge allows passage to motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians, while ferries are also available for transportation to the nearby Staten and Governor's Islands.

LifestyleLifestyle

True to its name, the Financial District is alive, one might even say congested, with tailored suits and briefcases during the work week. However, the evenings and weekends are as relaxed as the weekdays are busy. Residents of the area enjoy the coastal feel and stunning beauty of living on the edge of Manhattan.

Jutting out into the East River, Pier 15 is shared by tourists and locals alike. Meanwhile, Battery Park offers an unparalleled breath of fresh air, and historic landmarks such as Castle Clinton (the United States' first immigration center) and Stone Street (New York City's first paved road) offer a brief respite from the rush of Manhattan.

Restaurants & BarsRestaurant & Bars

The food scene is as wide-ranging as the lifestyle in FiDi, but remains defined by the working clientele: restaurants abound, including quick, yet gourmet meals for the busy bee as well as upscale, power meal spots for business people. For a fantastic, casual sandwich, try Epicurie Boulud, whose Michelin-starred founder just opened his third location in the World Trade Center's transportation hub, Oculus. On the other hand, those looking for an old-fashioned steakhouse for a big-wig business meeting need look no further than Delmonico's, a piece of history in FiDi. Weekend eaters also flock to Eataly Downtown, an enormous Italian marketplace offering counters, restaurants, and cooking demos.

Meanwhile, nightlife in FiDi is slower than most, but working professionals certainly enjoy the happy hour offerings at local bars across the neighborhood. Grab an evening drink at the historic Fraunces Tavern, where George Washington famously bid farewell to his troops in 1783 or have a weekend cocktail on the water at Fulton Market.

CostCost

While it certainly isn't the most expensive neighborhood in the city—it's far cheaper than neighboring TriBeCa—FiDi's median monthly rent of $3,602 is still well above the city average; not to mention that figure is rapidly increasing as the area gains popularity.

Final VerdictFinal Verdict

Few places achieve the same versatility as FiDi, a transformational neighborhood that simultaneously boasts the most powerful financial center in the world as well as some of New York City's most precious historical and recreational treasures. Though demand has risen significantly in recent months, there's still time to get here before it really takes off.

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