The New York City Central Business District (CBD) is primarily located in Lower Manhattan, spanning areas such as Wall Street, Broadway, and the Financial District. This region serves as the economic and administrative heart of the city, housing major corporations, financial institutions, and government offices.

The CBD’s location in Lower Manhattan is rooted in historical and infrastructural factors. Since the 17th century, Manhattan’s southern tip has been a hub for trade and finance, with the Dutch and later British establishing early markets and ports. The construction of the Brooklyn Bridge in 1883 connected Manhattan to Brooklyn, enhancing its role as a commercial center. Today, Lower Manhattan’s CBD is characterized by extreme population density (over 28,000 people per square mile) and a concentration of Fortune 500 companies, including Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Financial District contributes approximately 10% of New York City’s total GDP, generating over $400 billion annually. Additionally, the area’s proximity to transportation networks—such as the Port Authority Trans-Hudson (PATH) train, New York City Subway lines 1, 2, 3, and 4, and John F. Kennedy International Airport—facilitates global commerce. Data from the NYC Department of Finance reveals that over 80% of the city’s largest firms are headquartered in Lower Manhattan, underscoring its status as the CBD. This strategic clustering of resources, infrastructure, and historical significance solidifies its role as the epicenter of New York City’s economic activity.