Relocation Guide for New Buffalo, NY, Residents
Buffalo, NY, is a beautiful city with so much to offer its residents. As a result, many people are moving to this historic location, leading to a wave of renewal.
- Buffalo has a rich history and diverse population, making it an excellent place for individuals seeking community.
- Rent is incredibly reasonable in Buffalo, allowing residents to enjoy the big-city atmosphere without breaking the bank.
- There are a variety of things to do in Buffalo, including eating out, enjoying the outdoors, and visiting art galleries.
Are you one of the many individuals choosing to make Buffalo your new home? Not to worry — this Buffalo, NY, residential relocation guide can help you prepare for the move.
Is Buffalo a Nice Place To Live?
If you’ve never been to Queen City, you may have heard some unsavory things about it: It’s old, buildings are in disrepair, and no one wants to invest there. While there was a time when Buffalo was in decline, the city is now the focus of renewal efforts that aren’t just restoring its former glory but creating a whole new landscape of shops, public works, and community activities.
Community
Despite being the second-largest city in New York, Buffalo has a vibrant and close-knit community. Residents are proud to call it their home and are welcoming to newcomers who have chosen the same. There are a number of city festivals, such as Dyngus Day, that invite people to learn more about the city’s history and their fellow Buffalonians.
Diversity
Not familiar with Dyngus Day? If you move to Buffalo, you soon will be. This festival celebrates the Polish ancestry of many Buffalo residents and includes polka bands, a parade, and, of course, some of the best sausage you’ve ever tasted.
The Polish aren’t the only people who have their day; Buffalo also hosts these official celebrations:
- Italian Festival
- Greek Festival
- Gay Pride Parade
- Juneteenth Festival
- Saint Patrick’s Day Parades
History
Buffalo, NY, was settled hundreds of years ago and there are architectural marvels from that period still standing. In fact, you can see architecture from many decades represented in the Queen City skyline:
- Old Post Office
- Larkin Administration Building
- Buffalo City Hall
Is It Expensive To Live in Buffalo?
Everyone knows how expensive New York City is, so it would make sense if the second-largest urban center required deep pockets as well. However, it’s actually incredibly reasonable, making it a great option for young professionals and growing families.
For example, you only need about $900 a month for a one-bedroom apartment, which is a steal compared to many other urban areas. Living in Buffalo allows you to enjoy many of the benefits of a big city without paying the price.
What Kind of Things Can You Do in Buffalo?
What kind of residential relocation guide would this be without a list of all the fun things you can do in Buffalo, NY? One of the best things about Queen City is that there’s always something to do, from summer concerts to enjoying the outdoors. With so much to offer, there’s an activity for everyone.
Art Galleries
Visitors are often surprised by the number of art galleries in Buffalo, but residents know the art scene is a huge part of the city’s appeal. There are literally dozens of galleries housing the whole spectrum of art styles, and the scene grows larger and more vibrant each year. In addition to showing art from resident creators, many galleries also house work from visiting artists.
Pubs and Restaurants
Both residents and visitors agree: One of the best things about Buffalo is the food. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from and a range of cuisines to savor. However, there’s a certain culinary experience you only get in Buffalo, and we can’t recommend the local favorites enough:
- Sponge candy
- Buffalo wings
- Spaghetti parmesan
- Beef on Weck
Of course, food is only half of the equation — when you’re devouring a delicious dish, you need something to wash it down. Fortunately, Buffalo is home to amazing (and sometimes historical) pubs and breweries. For example, you haven’t experienced Buffalo until you’ve had a pint at Ulrich’s Tavern.
Public Parks
Did you know that many of Buffalo’s public parks were designed by Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted, the team that created New York City’s Central Park? The result is several gorgeous green spaces for picnics, jogging, and spending time with loved ones.
The Waterfront
When Buffalo’s bustling steel and grain industries began to slow, the Waterfront was littered with the empty shells of silos and warehouses. However, this city knows how to embrace its history while creating the future, which is how the Waterfront was born.
This area is right along the Erie Canal and is filled with a variety of venues:
- Rock climbing in old silos
- Kayaking rentals
- Concert spaces
- Restaurants and pubs
Sports
Even if you’re not from the city, you’ve probably heard about the Buffalo Bills. The Queen City is fiercely loyal to its home team and routinely celebrates games with sponsored tailgates parties. Buffalonians also enjoy cheering on their basketball and hockey teams, the Braves and the Sabres, respectively.
Canadian Border
Buffalo is very close to the Canadian border, which means you can easily take a day trip to visit our northern neighbors. You can see Niagara Falls, visit the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, or play games at the Great Canadian Midway.
What Should You Consider Before Moving to Buffalo?
While fun activities are a huge draw to an area, there are a few other factors to consider before deciding to move. What’s the climate like? Is the job market booming? Are the schools decent?
Fortunately, this residential relocation guide has all the answers. Here’s the rundown of the biggest factors affecting Buffalo residents.
Weather
While it’s true that Buffalo sees its fair share of snow, this city doesn’t let a little precipitation slow it down. In fact, the city is so efficient at keeping the streets clear that snow days are a rare occurrence.
Fan of the sun? Buffalonians are, too — in fact, with over 150 sunny days a year, they give many cities a run for their money in terms of sunshine. Additionally, summers are temperate and when the city really comes to life.
Schools
Buffalo has a robust public school system, making it a great choice for families with children. In fact, the city is home to one of the state’s top schools: City Honors School at Fosdick-Masten Park.
The Buffalo Public Schools District
The Buffalo Public Schools District is one of the largest school districts in New York. Serving 34,000 learners and counting, the district includes 45 elementary schools, 18 high schools, and two adult learning centers. It also has more than 3,200 teachers dedicated to providing a high-quality education to every student living in Buffalo, NY. Some of the district’s top-rated schools include Clarence Senior High School, Williamsville East High School, East Aurora High School, and Lewiston Porter Senior High School.
Higher Education in Buffalo, NY
If you or your children want to further your education, you won’t regret moving to Buffalo. Institutions of higher learning in the area offer a broad range of distinctive educational programs and courses. With more than 170 undergraduate and 60 graduate programs, you will surely find something that suits your academic goals.
Many prestigious organizations and publications, including U.S. News and World Report, have recognized the quality of Buffalo’s universities. All this is thanks to the top-notch instructors and modern facilities for science, the arts, and other professional studies.
Moreover, the colleges and universities in the area offer students a chance to participate actively in faculty-mentored research and internships that help them gain real-world experience while building valuable networks. High-achieving learners can take advantage of various scholarships and special programs to further their studies, such as the Muriel A. Howard Honors Program.
Besides providing valuable education and training, Buffalo’s higher education institutions also have exciting social and cultural activities. These activities help students develop new interests and connect with like-minded individuals in the community. You will also love the many recreational and fun activities the neighborhoods around these campuses have to offer, including parks, art galleries, museums, and scenic waterfronts.
Here are some colleges and universities you may want to check out when you are moving to Buffalo.
University at Buffalo
The University at Buffalo is New York’s public university with the largest student enrollment. Popularly known as UB, it offers more than 100 undergraduate and 30 graduate degree programs in a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, health sciences, humanities, mathematics, and business. The university is home to over 31,000 students from all 50 states and abroad.
Canisius College
Canisius College is a private Jesuit university located in downtown Buffalo, NY. Founded in 1870, the institution offers undergraduate, graduate, and pre-professional programs in the arts and sciences, business, education, nursing, and more. Students also enjoy a vibrant campus life with access to various clubs and organizations that foster self-expression and creativity.
Erie Community College
Erie Community College is a multi-campus community college system serving nearly 15,000 students from Buffalo and western New York. This SUNY college has over 80 associate degree and certificate programs. They also have online programs that allow students to pursue their degrees on their own schedule.
D’Youville College
D’Youville College is a private Catholic institution that was founded in 1908. The college is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and unique curriculum that instills character in its students. Students considering moving to Buffalo can benefit from D’Youville’s many on-campus resources, like academic counseling, computer labs, athletics, a library, and a health clinic.
Job Opportunities
As a city undergoing renewal, Buffalo has an expanding job market. There’s work at the General Mills plant, opportunities for tourism work at Niagara Falls, and positions at a variety of other employers:
- Delaware North
- Emedco
- M&T Bank
- Kaleida Health
