Housing

Average Sale Price (2024)

• Residential Detached $226,495
• Condominiums $262,595

Housing in Winnipeg’s Downtown and Exchange Districts offers a dynamic mix of modern convenience, historic charm, and urban vibrancy. These neighbourhoods are ideal for those seeking an active, city-centric lifestyle with easy access to amenities, entertainment, and cultural hotspots.

Housing in the Downtown District

Downtown Winnipeg provides a wide variety of housing options, including high-rise condos, luxury apartments, and affordable rental units. Many of the newer developments are concentrated along streets like Portage Avenue, Graham Avenue, and near True North Square, an emerging mixed-use hub with residential towers, offices, and retail spaces.

High-rise condos are a hallmark of downtown living, offering modern designs and desirable amenities such as fitness centers, rooftop patios, and underground parking. Notable examples include Glasshouse Skylofts, a sleek condo building with floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning city views, and The Avenue on Portage, which combines contemporary living with retail spaces on the ground floor. These units are popular with young professionals and empty nesters who value convenience and proximity to workplaces.

For renters, there are many options ranging from affordable apartments to high-end rentals in buildings like True North Square Residences, which offer high-quality finishes and premium services like concierge access. Many older apartment buildings have also been renovated to meet modern standards while maintaining more affordable rents, making downtown housing accessible to a diverse group of residents.

Housing in the Exchange District

The Exchange District is a designated National Historic Site, known for its beautifully preserved early 20th-century architecture and cobblestone streets. Housing in this area primarily consists of loft-style apartments and condominiums, many of which have been converted from historic warehouses and commercial buildings. These units are highly sought after for their unique character, featuring exposed brick walls, timber beams, and large industrial windows.

Condo developments like District Condos and Fairchild Lofts blend historical charm with modern amenities, appealing to urban dwellers who appreciate aesthetics and architectural history. Many of these condos offer open-concept layouts, high ceilings, and access to rooftop patios or common areas.

The loft apartments in the Exchange District are a particular draw for artists, students, and professionals working in creative industries, as the area is known for its vibrant arts scene. Renters can also find a mix of modernized lofts and affordable studio apartments, catering to a range of budgets.

The Exchange District’s compact size and walkability make it easy for residents to access nearby cafes, restaurants, and cultural venues. Housing demand here has grown as more people are drawn to the lifestyle offered by this hip and historic neighborhood.

Mixed-Use Developments and Community Features

Both Downtown and the Exchange District have seen a surge in mixed-use developments in recent years, combining residential, retail, and office spaces to create lively, self-contained communities. Developments like True North Square and The Waterfront are prime examples, where residents can live, work, and play within the same complex. These areas often include green spaces, public art, and gathering spots, fostering a sense of community in the urban environment.

For families or those seeking more spacious accommodations, housing options are limited in these districts, as the majority of units cater to singles or couples. However, the proximity to schools, libraries, and cultural attractions like the Winnipeg Art Gallery and The Forks makes downtown an attractive choice for those raising children in an urban setting.

Affordability and Accessibility

Housing in Downtown and the Exchange Districts ranges from affordable to luxury, catering to a wide demographic. While newer developments tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum, there are still options for students, first-time renters, and those on tighter budgets, particularly in older apartment buildings.

Accessibility is another strong point of downtown living. With the city’s extensive public transit system, active transportation routes, and walkable streets, residents can easily navigate the area without a vehicle. This convenience adds value to the housing options available, making downtown an attractive choice for those seeking a car-free lifestyle.

Housing in Winnipeg’s Downtown and Exchange Districts offers an appealing mix of modern luxury, historic charm, and urban convenience. From high-rise condos with state-of-the-art amenities to unique lofts steeped in history, these neighbourhoods cater to a variety of lifestyles and budgets. With their proximity to entertainment, dining, and cultural attractions, the Downtown and Exchange Districts continue to be among Winnipeg’s most desirable areas for vibrant, city-centred living.