Buffalo, NY


94 Reviews



BestPlaces offers the best, most comprehensive city reports,
with insight into cost of living, crime, climate, and more.
Buffalo, NY

About Buffalo, NY

Buffalo, New York is a lively city located on the shores of Lake Erie. Home to an array of cultural attractions and outdoor activities, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. Take a tour of one of the many historical sites or explore the art scene at world-renowned Albright-Knox Art Gallery. Sample some delicious food at one of the dozens of ethnic restaurants or take in some professional sports at KeyBank Center. With its unique culture and hospitality, Buffalo is a great destination for visitors and residents alike! Large metro area set in the lakes and rolling hills of the Mideast region. Primary industries include manufacturing and government. Noteworthy features include shoreline. - Situated in west New York, along Lake Erie, 100 miles west of Rochester and 20 miles south of Niagara Falls..

Location Details

State: New York
County: Erie County
Metro Area: Buffalo-Cheektowaga Metro Area
City: Buffalo
Zip Codes: 14215, 14213, 14220, 14207, 14216, 14211, 14206, 14214, 14210, 14222, 17 total
Cost of Living: -7.9% lower
Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Elevation: 600 ft above sea level
Buying or selling a home?
Find top real estate agents in Buffalo.
Find A Top Agent

Dig Deeper on Buffalo

The Buffalo, NY metro area is a region with a deep history and an interesting mix of geographical features. Located in western New York, close to Canada, this area has seen a lot of change over the years. It started as a significant spot for Native American tribes and grew rapidly with European settlement in the 18th century. Buffalo played a key role in the industrial revolution, especially with its position near the Great Lakes and the Erie Canal, making it a hub for trade and manufacturing.

Geographically, Buffalo sits on the eastern shores of Lake Erie and is close to the Niagara River and the famous Niagara Falls. This location provides residents with stunning natural views and plenty of outdoor activities. The climate here has cold winters that bring heavy snowfall, known as "lake-effect" snow, but also warm and pleasant summers.

Over the years, Buffalo's economy has shifted from its manufacturing roots to embrace other sectors like healthcare, education, and technology. Despite facing economic challenges, the city has been revitalizing, with new businesses and cultural spots popping up. The presence of universities and colleges also adds to the area's vibrant atmosphere.

In terms of politics, Buffalo has historically leaned towards the Democratic Party, reflecting the city's strong union presence and working-class population. However, the political landscape can vary across different neighborhoods and suburbs, showing a diverse range of views among residents.

Living in Buffalo offers a unique experience that blends urban living with access to nature. Residents enjoy a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and theaters. Sports are a big deal here, with the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres garnering passionate support. The area is also known for its delicious food scene, featuring iconic dishes like Buffalo wings.

For those considering moving to Buffalo, it's important to be ready for the winter weather, which can be intense due to the lake-effect snow. But, the summers are lovely and offer a great time to explore the outdoors. The cost of living in Buffalo is relatively low compared to other cities in the Northeast, making it an appealing place for many. The community is welcoming, with a strong sense of pride in their city's history and current developments.

In summary, the Buffalo, NY metro area offers a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and a rejuvenating economy. It's a place where new residents can find affordable living, engage in a range of activities, and join a community that values its past while looking forward to its future.

Buffalo Cost of Living
$$$$

Affordable home prices, about an hour to rochester, and arts & culture make Buffalo a great place to live.

$204,600
-65.2% lower than avg
$42,186
-63.6% lower than avg
$1,030 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
-38.8% lower than avg
Buffalo Crime
61.4 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Buffalo, New York
$39,240
for a family
$35,200
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Buffalo
   Affordable home prices
Gloomy weather
   About an hour to Rochester
Harsh winters
   Arts & culture
High taxes
Reviews for Buffalo
    See all (94)

Over 2 years ago

Clean, fun, safe and unique. Great place to raise a family. Affordable housing, strong job market. Great schools and neighborhoods.  More

   |    Reply

Over 2 years ago

Buffalo was okay in 2016. Since then, crime is up, there are more methadone clinics than pediatricians, and so many of the small businesses that made this place charming  More

   |    Reply

Over 2 years ago

This city is just plain beautiful. Sure, it might not be New York or Albany. But it's Buffalo. Place is a God-send. You want to see the Falls and the Bills? Come here.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Buffalo

Cost of Living
Compare Buffalo, NY
cost of living
Compare food, housing, utilities, and more in Buffalo, New York to any other city in the US.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.