Top 14 Pros and Cons of Living in Buffalo, NY

Buffalo, often referred to as the "City of Good Neighbors," is a place of rich history and vibrant culture. With its historic architecture, diverse neighborhoods, and a thriving arts scene, it's no wonder that many people are drawn to call Buffalo their home. However, life in this Western New York city comes with its own set of challenges. So whether you're searching for a cozy apartment in Elmwood Village or a charming apartment in North Buffalo, you’ve come to the right place.

In this ApartmentGuide article, we'll explore the various pros and cons of living in Buffalo, helping you decide if the Queen City is the right place for you.

Fast facts about living in Buffalo

• What Buffalo is known for: Buffalo is famous for its chicken wings and proximity to Niagara Falls
• Fun fact: Buffalo’s parks were designed by Central Park architect Frederick Law Olmsted
• Population: Over 255,000 residents in Buffalo proper; over 1.1 million in the metro area
• Average rent: $1,475 per month for a one-bedroom apartment
• Median home sale price: $237,000
• Days of sunshine: Approximately 155 days per year
• Public parks: More than 150 parks within the city
• Average summer high temperature: 80°F (27°C)
• Major industries: Healthcare, education, technology, and manufacturing

1. Pro: Affordable cost of living

One of Buffalo's most significant advantages is its affordability. The overall cost of living in Buffalo is about 5% lower than the national average. Housing is particularly affordable, with the median sale price for a home in Buffalo around $237,000 and average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Buffalo at $1,475 per month. Utilities, groceries, transportation, and other daily expenses are also lower, making Buffalo an attractive option for those looking to live comfortably without breaking the bank.

2. Con: Harsh winters

Buffalo is well-known for its harsh winters, with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures from November through March. The city receives an average of 94 inches of snow per year, which can make commuting and outdoor activities challenging during the winter months. Residents need to be prepared for snowstorms, icy roads, and the need for winter gear and home heating.

3. Pro: Rich cultural and arts scene

Buffalo has a thriving cultural and arts scene, offering a wide range of experiences for residents and visitors alike. The city is home to the renowned Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, and a vibrant theater district. Additionally, the city's diverse neighborhoods, such as Elmwood Village and Allentown, are known for their galleries, street art, and community events. Buffalo’s rich cultural heritage is celebrated through festivals, museums, and historical landmarks.

4. Con: Limited public transportation

While Buffalo does have a public transportation system operated by the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA), it is not as extensive as those in larger cities. The bus and light rail services cover much of the city and surrounding areas, but routes can be limited in scope and frequency. This makes it challenging for residents without a car to get around efficiently, especially in areas not directly served by public transit. For those who prefer walking or biking, certain Buffalo neighborhoods offer decent walkability and bike-friendly infrastructure, though overall, a car is still necessary for many residents.

Buffalo’s transportation scores

• Walk score: 67
• Transit score: 47
• Bike score: 63

5. Pro: Strong sense of community

Buffalo is known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community. The city hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its rich history and diverse culture. Neighborhoods like Elmwood Village and North Buffalo offer a tight-knit community feel, with local businesses and residents coming together to support each other. Buffalo’s residents take pride in their city, contributing to a warm and inviting environment.

6. Con: Economic challenges

While Buffalo has been undergoing a revitalization in recent years, it still faces economic challenges, particularly in terms of job opportunities. The city's economy has been transitioning from its industrial roots to a more service-oriented focus, but this shift has not been without difficulties. Some residents may find it challenging to find jobs in certain fields.

7. Pro: Access to outdoor activities and nature

Buffalo’s location on the shores of Lake Erie provides residents with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The city is home to a number of parks and recreational areas, including the expansive Delaware Park, which offers walking trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities. Buffalo’s proximity to Niagara Falls, the Finger Lakes, and the Adirondack Mountains also makes it easy for residents to enjoy hiking, skiing, and other outdoor adventures.

Commute times to popular destinations

• Niagara Falls, NY: 30 minutes by car
• Toronto, ON: 2 hours by car
• Rochester, NY: 1.5 hours by car
• Cleveland, OH: 3 hours by car
• Syracuse, NY: 2.5 hours by car

8. Con: Limited nightlife options

While Buffalo has a growing arts and cultural scene, its nightlife options are somewhat limited compared to larger cities. There are bars, clubs, and live music venues, but the city's nightlife is generally more low-key. For those seeking a vibrant and diverse nightlife, options may be somewhat limited, particularly outside of the downtown area.

9. Pro: Diverse dining and food scene

Buffalo is famous for its culinary specialties, particularly its namesake Buffalo wings. The city offers a diverse and growing food scene, reflecting its multicultural population. From classic American fare to international cuisine, there’s something for every palate. Neighborhoods like Allentown and the West Side are known for their eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks.

Popular restaurants in Buffalo

• Anchor Bar
• Lloyd Taco Factory
• Hutch’s
• The Black Sheep
• Chef’s Restaurant
• Pearl Street Grill & Brewery
• SATO

10. Con: Urban sprawl

Buffalo, like many American cities, has experienced urban sprawl, with development spreading outwards into surrounding suburbs. This can lead to longer commute times, increased traffic, and a loss of green space. While some residents prefer the suburban lifestyle, others may find the spread-out nature of the city less appealing.

11. Pro: Educational institutions

Buffalo is home to several respected educational institutions, including the University at Buffalo, Canisius College, and Buffalo State College. These schools not only provide education but also contribute to the local economy and culture. Buffalo’s public schools and private institutions also offer a range of educational opportunities for residents.

12. Con: Property taxes

Property taxes in Buffalo are higher than the national average, which can be a burden for homeowners. The city's efforts to revitalize and improve infrastructure have contributed to these costs. While the higher taxes are often justified by the quality of services provided, they can still impact the overall affordability of living in Buffalo.

13. Pro: Proximity to major cities

Buffalo’s location on the U.S.-Canada border provides easy access to several major cities and attractions in both countries. Toronto, Rochester, and Cleveland are all within a few hours’ drive, offering additional opportunities for work, leisure, and travel. Buffalo’s central location also makes it a convenient base for exploring the Great Lakes region.

Commute times to popular destinations

• Toronto, Canada: 2 hours by car
• Rochester, NY: 1.5 hours by car
• Cleveland, OH: 3 hours by car
• Niagara Falls, NY: 30 minutes by car
• Syracuse, NY: 2.5 hours by car
• Pittsburgh, PA: 4 hours by car

14. Pro: Rich history and cultural heritage

Buffalo has a rich history, with roots dating back to the early 19th century. The city played a significant role in the development of the Erie Canal and was a key stop on the Underground Railroad. Today, Buffalo's history is preserved in its many historic neighborhoods, museums, and landmarks, including the Darwin D. Martin House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park.

Pros & cons of living in Buffalo, NY (Summary)

• Pro: Affordable cost of living
• Con: Harsh winters
• Pro: Rich cultural and arts scene
• Con: Limited public transportation options
• Pro: Strong sense of community
• Con: Economic challenges
• Pro: Access to outdoor activities and nature
• Con: Limited nightlife options
• Pro: Diverse dining and food scene
• Con: Urban sprawl
• Pro: Educational institutions
• Con: Property taxes
• Pro: Proximity to major cities
• Pro: Rich history and cultural heritage

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