If you’re considering moving to Buffalo, you’re not alone. According to U.S. Census data, Buffalo saw more than 19,000 people change residences within Erie County last year, many of them simply moving from one neighborhood to another in search of a better fit.
Relocating within your own city might sound easy, but it can still be overwhelming without the right information. Knowing which Buffalo neighborhood matches your lifestyle can make all the difference, and that’s what this guide is here to help you figure out.
Why Buffalo Continues to Draw Residents
Buffalo isn’t just a city, it’s a feeling, a culture, and a community. With a population of just under 280,000, it manages to offer the charm of a small town and the energy of a growing metro area.
The cost of living here is 10% lower than the national average, making it one of the more affordable cities in New York State. This affordability, combined with its rich history and tight-knit neighborhoods, makes moving in Buffalo a rewarding decision for many.
Planning Your Buffalo Move Strategically
Even if you’re only moving a few miles, don’t underestimate the value of planning ahead. Start by mapping out your timeline, hiring professionals, and assessing what kind of move (DIY or full-service) fits your budget and schedule.
Research shows that people who plan their move at least 4–6 weeks ahead are 42% more likely to report a smooth moving experience. A solid plan also gives you time to contact trusted movers for relocating within Buffalo neighborhoods, which can make a huge difference in how efficiently your move goes.
Local Neighborhoods in Buffalo
Elmwood Village
Consistently ranked among the “Top 10 Great Neighborhoods in America” by the American Planning Association, Elmwood Village is one of Buffalo’s most iconic areas. With more than 300 locally owned businesses, you’ll never run out of things to explore.
The median home price here sits around $290,000, and rental prices average $1,300/month. This neighborhood is ideal for those who enjoy walking, local shops, community events, and café culture.
North Buffalo
North Buffalo combines quiet residential streets with easy access to Hertel Avenue, home to some of the best restaurants and boutique shops in the city. It offers a strong community vibe with affordable single-family homes and excellent schools nearby.
The average home value in North Buffalo is around $215,000, making it a great value for young families. With its tree-lined streets and accessibility, it’s one of the most balanced neighborhoods for moving in Buffalo.
Allentown
Allentown is Buffalo’s creative core, home to the Allentown Art Festival and some of the city’s best murals and live music venues. It’s known for its unique architecture, LGBTQ+ friendly community, and vintage charm.
Apartments and homes here are in the mid-range, with average rents hovering around $1,200/month. If you’re looking for a space that inspires you daily, this might be the right fit.
South Buffalo
Known for its Irish-American heritage and working-class pride, South Buffalo has a reputation for being one of the most community-driven parts of the city. From local parades to neighborhood events, it’s the kind of place where everyone knows your name.
Median home prices hover around $180,000, making it one of the more affordable neighborhoods in Buffalo. If you’re looking for local pride, safety, and family-friendliness, South Buffalo delivers.
West Side
Buffalo’s West Side has transformed over the past decade, with redevelopment projects, refugee resettlement efforts, and a booming small business scene. Grant Street and Niagara Street are hot spots for international food, culture, and coffee shops.
Home values have increased by over 20% in the last five years, with average listings now around $170,000. It’s an excellent spot for homeowners who want to get in on an up-and-coming area.
Downtown Buffalo
Downtown Buffalo has emerged as a viable residential area, thanks to a wave of luxury loft conversions and riverfront condo developments. Canalside, KeyBank Center, and the waterfront all offer entertainment and lifestyle perks right outside your front door.
Rents average between $1,400–$1,800/month, depending on building amenities. For professionals and downsizers alike, Downtown offers a convenient and low-maintenance living option.
Parkside
Parkside is known for its proximity to Delaware Park, designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. The neighborhood also offers some of the most stunning architecture in the city, including craftsman and Victorian homes.
The average home value here is approximately $280,000, and many homes have been lovingly preserved or restored. It’s ideal for families or buyers who want classic beauty with a suburban feel.
Black Rock & Riverside
Tucked along the Niagara River, Black Rock and Riverside are often overlooked, but that’s starting to change. These areas offer river views, easy access to the Scajaquada Expressway, and tons of real estate potential.
Median home prices in Black Rock sit around $145,000, and Riverside is slightly lower, around $130,000. If you’re looking to stretch your budget and still live within city limits, this is your best bet for moving in Buffalo affordably.
Navigating Buffalo Winters During Your Move
Moving in Buffalo between November and March means you’ll likely face snow, and lots of it. The city receives an average of 95 inches of snow annually, one of the highest snowfall totals in the country.
That’s why it’s crucial to prepare for delays and have equipment like salt, shovels, and boot trays on hand. Booking trusted movers for relocating within Buffalo neighborhoods with winter experience can also save you a lot of headaches.
How Schools and Transit Influence Your Decision
Good schools and reliable transportation can make or break your decision on where to move. The Buffalo Public Schools system has 60+ schools, including top-ranked magnets like City Honors.
Transit access via the NFTA Metro Bus and Rail system is strongest in Downtown, Elmwood, and Allentown. If you work in the city and want to go car-free, these neighborhoods are your best options.
Local Moving Tips That Actually Make a Difference
Even if you’re just moving across town, some tricks can save you time and stress. For starters, don’t pack items you won’t use again, donate them.
Also, use clear plastic bins for essentials you’ll need on day one, like toiletries, pet food, and chargers. Hiring trusted movers for relocating within Buffalo neighborhoods will streamline the process and let you focus on settling in, not just packing up.
Embrace the Buffalo Move
There’s something incredibly empowering about turning the page and choosing a new chapter in the city you already love. Whether you’re moving closer to family, searching for a more walkable area, or just want that extra bedroom, moving in Buffalo offers plenty of possibilities.
Take the time to research neighborhoods, plan ahead, and partner with trusted movers for relocating within Buffalo neighborhoods who understand the local terrain. Buffalo isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place to grow.
Our team understands the unique challenges of moving in Buffalo, from navigating narrow streets to dealing with unpredictable weather. With a strong reputation for reliability, transparent pricing, and customer satisfaction, we have become a go-to choice for residents seeking a smooth and stress-free moving experience within Western New York.