Within Hamilton, Central functions as a more concentrated urban area where housing, services, retail and employment uses are closely integrated. The area has a more urban, mixed-use character, with housing located closer to retail, services, employment and higher-density development. Residents generally have more destinations concentrated within a smaller area, while apartments and condominiums tend to play a larger role in the housing mix. Hamilton ranges from dense lower-city neighbourhoods to escarpment communities, suburban growth areas, former town centres, industrial districts and extensive rural land.