Central District Offices Hong Kong

9 Jun

Written By SAVVI

Central Hong Kong: The Definitive Guide to the City’s Premier Business District

If you're deciding where to base your business in Hong Kong, Central remains the benchmark for prestige, connectivity, and corporate infrastructure. As the city's historic and symbolic business heart, Central is where global finance, law, consulting, and luxury industries converge. Despite decentralisation trends, Central continues to lead in reputation, influence, and premium workspace.

Whether you're a multinational anchoring your Asia-Pacific headquarters or a boutique firm seeking visibility and access to key clients, Central remains the most desirable office district in Hong Kong.

Overview: What Makes Central Unique?

Central is the epicentre of power in Hong Kong, home to major international banks, law firms, family offices, and consulates. Located on the north shore of Hong Kong Island, the district offers unmatched proximity to financial institutions, government offices, and high-profile clients.

In 2025, Central has evolved into a multi-sector hub, drawing not only traditional finance and legal players but also ESG consultancies, fintech startups, and arbitration centres that value credibility and strategic location.

Who Should Consider Central?

Financial institutions – investment banks, asset managers, private equity
Legal and professional services – global law firms, arbitration and compliance consultancies
Family offices and UHNW services
Luxury brands seeking flagship commercial presence
Diplomatic missions and NGOs
Fintech, regtech, and ESG-focused startups

Types of Office Spaces Available

Grade A Office Towers
Central is home to some of the most prestigious Grade A towers in Asia, offering best-in-class amenities, LEED or WELL certifications, high-speed elevators, and expansive harbour views. Notable buildings include:

IFC 1 & 2 – landmark towers with direct Airport Express access
Cheung Kong Center – elite financial and legal tenants
One & Two Exchange Square – home to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and blue-chip corporates
The Landmark – integrated luxury office and retail destination
The Henderson (opened 2023–24) – new eco-conscious, wellness-focused icon designed by Foster + Partners

Boutique Commercial Buildings
Smaller, character-rich buildings on streets like Ice House Street and Stanley Street are popular among boutique law firms, private equity offices, and creative consultancies seeking intimacy and discretion within a prime postcode.

Serviced Offices and Coworking
Premium flexible office providers are well established in Central. Options include:

The Executive Centre – high-end business suites in prime towers
WeWork, The Hive, and Spaces – for startups, consultants, and hybrid teams seeking agility and scalability

Office Rental Costs in Central (2025)

Grade A offices: HK$110–HK$140 per sq. ft (gross, monthly)
Grade B offices: HK$70–HK$90 per sq. ft
Serviced offices: HK$8,000–HK$16,000+ per workstation/month

Pricing varies by building grade, floor level, view, lease term, and fit-out condition. While Central remains the most expensive district, landlords are increasingly offering incentives such as rent-free periods, renovation subsidies, or flexible lease structures.

Connectivity and Transport

Central offers the best transport infrastructure in Hong Kong:

MTR Central Station – links the Island, Tsuen Wan, and South Island lines
Hong Kong Station – direct access to the Airport Express and Tung Chung Line
Ferry terminals – to Tsim Sha Tsui, Discovery Bay, and outlying islands
Mid-Levels Escalator – connects Central to residential areas uphill
Elevated pedestrian walkways – connect major office buildings, malls, and hotels across Central and Admiralty

The district is also well served by buses, minibuses, taxis, and ride-hailing services. Many employees living in Mid-Levels, Sai Ying Pun, Kennedy Town, or Kowloon West can commute within 15–25 minutes.

Executive Lifestyle and Amenities

Central’s dual identity as a business and lifestyle destination is one of its biggest strengths. After-hours, the district transforms into a cosmopolitan playground for high-level networking and socialising.

Fine dining: Michelin-starred restaurants (Amber, L’Envol, 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana)
Bars and nightlife: Rooftop lounges, private members’ clubs, speakeasies
Retail: The Landmark, IFC Mall, On Lan Street boutiques
Wellness: High-end gyms, yoga studios, medical clinics
Green space: Hong Kong Park, Botanical Gardens, Tai Kwun arts and heritage centre

Advantages and Drawbacks

Pros

Unmatched prestige and corporate image
High-level networking and access to key stakeholders
Top-grade office infrastructure
Excellent transport connectivity
Proximity to premium retail, dining, and wellness options

Cons

Highest rental costs in the city
Competitive leasing market for top-tier buildings
Heavy foot traffic during peak hours
Limited parking availability and expensive monthly rates

Market Trends and Developments in 2025

The Henderson is now fully operational, offering one of Hong Kong’s most sustainable and wellness-oriented office environments
Central Market and PMQ have been revitalised as vibrant F&B and arts hubs, contributing to the district’s lifestyle appeal
Hybrid working has made flexible leasing more popular, with increased demand for serviced offices and subletting options
The market remains competitive for top-floor space in trophy buildings, though rental pressure is easing slightly due to tenant decentralisation

Is Central Right for Your Business?

Central is ideal if your business: