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Browse Top Financial Services Office Space Listings  

Every financial journey deserves a stage that echoes its ambition. Whether you’re a bank, a venture capital firm, a vibrant trading hub, a hedge fund breaking boundaries, or a brokerage firm setting the market’s heartbeat, your office space should be as dynamic as your aspirations. Below is what you should know:

Manhattan’s Top Markets for Financial Services Firms

  • Financial District / Downtown Manhattan: Right at Manhattan’s southern tip, where the Hudson meets the East River, lies the vibrant Financial District. Picture being neighbors with legends: the New York Stock Exchange, Goldman Sachs, and JP Morgan Chase, to name a few. Boasting 90 million square feet of prime real estate, including the iconic One World Trade Center, it’s the epicenter of drive and success. And your commute? Seamless, thanks to the subway network.
  • Midtown Manhattan: Imagine your business at the heart of where ambition and prestige converge: Midtown Manhattan. This isn’t just an office locale; it’s a powerhouse of opportunity, perfect for a financial trailblazer like you. With cutting-edge spaces like One Vanderbilt, and legends like the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building, Midtown offers value without compromise. It’s not just about the square footage; it’s about positioning yourself among industry titans like Deutsche Bank, AIG, and Nasdaq.  
  • Hudson Yards: ​​Financial execs, have you ever considered Hudson Yards as your next power move? It’s not just a location; it’s a statement. Hudson Yards has become extremely popular for companies that previously occupied Downtown Manhattan or Midtown Manhattan, and it’s now the emerging epicenter for forward-thinkers like BlackRock and JPMorgan. With towering office spaces tailored for success, it offers a modern backdrop for those on the rise. And accessibility? Top-notch. Hudson Yards neighbors the iconic High Line and boasts seamless subway connections with the 34th Street-Hudson Yards station.

Current Average Leasing Costs for Financial Services Office Space in New York City

  • Financial District / Downtown Manhattan: $50/SF
  • Midtown Manhattan: $65/SF
  • Hudson Yards: $90/SF
Business people rushing through a glass-walled corridor.

What You Should Look for in a Financial Services Office Space 

Financial executives like you are on the lookout for office spaces that not only reflect your company’s prestige but also cater to the unique demands of your industry. So, what should you expect from a top-tier office space tailored to the financial sector?

The Necessities: Modern Infrastructure & Seamless Connectivity

Your business thrives on speed and reliability. Outdated infrastructure? Unreliable telecommunications? These aren’t just inconveniences; they’re roadblocks to your success. The office space you choose should feature:

  • Backup generators for uninterrupted power.
  • Multiple telecommunication providers with fiber connections.
  • Stellar cell phone reception across all floors.

And if you’re eyeing places like Downtown Manhattan, Midtown Manhattan, or Hudson Yards, many Class A buildings fit the bill. Especially those recently constructed or renovated.  

Employee Satisfaction & Retention: It’s All in the Amenities

In the relentless world of finance, your team deserves amenities that keep pace. Premium Class A office spaces cater to this, offering 24/7 facilities. Whether it’s a sunrise workout or a midnight game break, there’s always a spot to refresh. After all, you’ve secured top talent. The challenge, though? Keeping them. The right amenities, available anytime, can be your ace in the hole, and as an executive, is something you shouldn’t overlook.

  • State-of-the-art gyms to help your team stay fit.
  • Cozy cafes brewing the finest micro-roasted coffee.
  • Quick “grab-and-go” food and drink options, always locally sourced.
  • Impressive meeting and conference rooms to wow your top clients.
  • Top-notch restaurants within the building for those business lunches.
  • Relaxation zones, like game rooms with billiards, table tennis, and game consoles.
  • Around-The-Clock Availability
Hispanic male trader typing on a keyboard in office with laptop and dual monitors

The Challenges of Leasing Financial Services Office Space in New York City

  • Sky-High Demand: New York City’s prominence in the finance world means prime office spaces get snapped up fast. Can you move quickly enough to secure your ideal spot?
  • Premium Pricing: In the city that never sleeps, prime real estate comes at a premium. Are you ready to balance prestige with budget?
  • Adapting to Trends: The finance sector is evolving, and so are office needs. From open layouts to tech integration, is your space future-proof?
  • Growth Considerations: Expansion is the name of the game in finance. Will your new office accommodate tomorrow’s team, not just today’s?
  • Amenities That Magnetize: In a competitive talent market, top-tier amenities aren’t just a perk; they’re a necessity. Does your space offer the allure to not only attract but also retain your team, encouraging their return to the office?

Top Considerations Before Signing a Lease

  • Data Infrastructure: With finance being data-driven, does the space offer robust, secure, and scalable IT infrastructure to handle your firm’s demands?
  • Security Standards: Beyond just physical safety, does the building have state-of-the-art cybersecurity and privacy measures suitable for sensitive financial data?
  • Client Impressions: Your office speaks volumes to clients. Is the space reflective of the prestige and professionalism your firm embodies?
  • Flexibility for Growth: The finance sector is fast-paced. Does your commercial office lease offer flexibility for expansion, contraction, or restructuring as market dynamics shift?
  • Location Dynamics: Being close to financial hubs, transport links, and other key players can be crucial. Is the location optimal for your clients, partners, and team’s daily commute?

Ready for More Insights?

Since 2004, our team has represented hundreds of tenants in acquiring commercial loft space and office, retail, law firm, and hedge fund space. Contact us at (212) 444-2241 for any questions. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are backup power generators typically included in building infrastructure?

Yes, many modern office buildings come equipped with backup power generators. For firms that trade financial securities, having an uninterrupted power supply is of utmost importance. Power outages can significantly disrupt trading activities, making backup power generators an essential component in real estate decisions for such firms.

What security features should financial services firms prioritize when choosing an office space?

Security is a primary concern for financial services firms. They should opt for office spaces with enhanced 24/7 security personnel and state-of-the-art surveillance systems. Access control is another critical aspect, with features such as keycards or biometric systems that restrict unauthorized entry to specific floors or areas. Additionally, when it comes to data security, it’s vital to have provisions for secure rooms or cages to house server equipment. Firms should also ensure their lease agreements allow for periodic IT security audits, ensuring their data’s safety.

How vital are infrastructure and technology in selecting office spaces for trading companies?

Infrastructure and technology are cornerstone considerations for trading companies seeking office spaces. High-speed and redundant internet connections are necessary to ensure no downtime, which can be catastrophic in the trading world. Backup power options, including generators or UPS systems, are crucial to guarantee a continuous power supply. Moreover, spaces like trading floors or data centers often have specific cooling requirements, necessitating advanced HVAC systems in the building.

What specific design considerations are suitable for trading floors?

Trading floors have unique design needs. Large open spaces are preferred to accommodate multiple trading desks, enabling efficient communication and monitoring. Raised floors are also common, catering to the dense wiring needs typical of active trading environments. Moreover, given the hustle and bustle on trading floors, acoustic treatments become essential to manage and control the noise levels, ensuring a conducive working environment.

How do financial firms ensure confidentiality in their office spaces?

Confidentiality is paramount for financial firms. Office spaces should have soundproof rooms for private meetings and calls, ensuring sensitive information remains confidential. Additionally, considering the volume of confidential documents these firms handle, features like on-site shredding or secure disposal bins become imperative, ensuring safe document disposal.

Can amenities play a role in attracting and retaining talent in financial services?

Certainly! Amenities play a significant role in attracting and retaining talent in the competitive financial services sector. Premium facilities, such as upscale kitchenettes, lounges, gyms, and state-of-the-art meeting rooms, enhance the overall workplace experience and incentivize employees, especially those putting in long hours. A well-equipped office can significantly boost morale and productivity.

How crucial is the office location for financial services firms?

Location plays a pivotal role for financial services firms. Being close to financial districts and other significant institutions offers strategic and logistical advantages. Proximity to other financial institutions, regulators, and service providers can facilitate smoother operations and collaborations and ensure the firm remains at the heart of financial activities.

What should firms consider regarding business continuity planning while selecting an office space?

Business continuity planning is a critical aspect for financial firms. In selecting an office space, firms should consider the availability of alternate sites, ensuring operations can shift seamlessly in case the primary office becomes inaccessible. The lease agreement should also have robust disaster recovery provisions, allowing firms to restore operations during unforeseen disruptions.