Over the last decade the neighbourhood has undergone a residential renaissance with warehouse and historic buildings being converted in condominium and rental apartments. The population of the Exchange District is now estimated to be 2,200, with an active residents' association.
The neighbourhood has over 60 unique independent shops and over 50 home grown eateries, pubs, coffee shops, and gourmet restaurants. The area is home to antique stores, art studios, book stores, clothiers, cycle shops, furniture makers, jewelers, music stores, accessory boutiques, toy stores, and many other businesses.
It is also a place where the broader community gathers to partake in many of Winnipeg's great festivals. These include the Fringe Theatre Festival, the International Jazz Festival, the Architecture and Design Film Festival, New Music Festival, Nuit Banche and many more.