Discovering the Best Suburbs of Buffalo?
I. Introduction
If you're looking to relocate to the Buffalo area, you may be considering living in the city itself or one of its surrounding suburbs. While living in Buffalo certainly has its perks, there are many benefits to living in the suburbs as well. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the top suburbs of Buffalo to consider and provide information on housing costs, school district information, and local amenities. We'll also discuss how to choose the right suburb for you based on your budget, needs, and preferences. Whether you're looking for more space, privacy, or access to top-rated schools, there's a suburb of Buffalo that can fit the bill. So, let's dive in and discover the best suburbs of Buffalo to live in!
II. Benefits of Living in Buffalo's Suburbs
While Buffalo itself has a lot to offer, there are many reasons why families choose to live in the suburbs instead. Here are just a few of the benefits of living in the suburbs of Buffalo:
More Space: One of the biggest draws of suburban living is the amount of space available. Homes and yards tend to be larger, giving families more room to spread out and enjoy their own space. Unlike city living, where apartments and homes are often super close together, the suburbs offer more room to spread out and enjoy a quieter, more private lifestyle. The further you go south, in places like Hamburg, West Seneca and East Aurora, you get a lot more land with your home!
Quieter and Safer Neighborhoods: Suburbs are typically quieter than the city, with less traffic and noise pollution. This can make for a more peaceful and relaxing living environment, especially for those who value their privacy. Another key benefit of living in the suburbs of Buffalo is the increased sense of safety and security. The suburbs of Buffalo are generally known for their low crime rates and safe communities, making them an attractive option for individuals and families who don't want to deal with the riff raff. Compared to urban living, where crime rates can be higher and safety can be a concern, the suburbs of Buffalo offer a sense of peace of mind for families. Many suburbs have their own police forces and community watch programs, providing an additional layer of security and protection.
Access to Top-Rated Schools: Statistically, many of Buffalo's suburbs boast top-rated school districts, making them an attractive option for families with school-age children. This can provide peace of mind that your children are receiving a quality education. Many of the suburbs in the Buffalo area have their own school districts, which means that schools are often smaller and more community-focused. This can create a more personalized and supportive learning environment for students, and allow teachers to build stronger relationships with their students. In addition to smaller school districts, many of Buffalo's suburbs also offer access to top-rated public and private schools. For example, the suburb of Williamsville is home to some of the highest-rated schools in the region, including Williamsville East High School, which has been ranked as one of the best high schools in the country by U.S. News & World Report.
III. Top Suburbs of Buffalo to Consider
All of the suburbs below, have the benefits discussed above woven into them. Let's take a look to see what residents and news articles have as the top suburbs of buffalo ny
Williamsville
Top-Rated Schools: Williamsville Central School District is one of the best in the region, consistently ranking high in state and national rankings. The district includes several elementary, middle, and high schools, all with excellent academic programs, extracurricular activities, and athletics.
Convenient Location: Williamsville is centrally located, making it easy to access all the amenities of Buffalo while still maintaining a small-town feel. It's just a short drive to downtown Buffalo, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, and several major highways.
Safe Community: Williamsville is known for its low crime rates, making it a safe and secure place to raise a family. The village also has a strong sense of community, with many events and activities throughout the year that bring residents together.
Amenities: Its charming and historic Main Street is lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, providing residents with plenty of options for shopping and dining. Additionally, Williamsville boasts several parks and green spaces, including Glen Park, which offers walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. The Williamsville Community Center offers a variety of programs and activities for all ages, including fitness classes, art classes, and summer camps.
2. Orchard Park
Orchard Park is a picturesque suburb of Buffalo located just 13 miles south of downtown. It is known for its large homes, beautiful parks, and excellent schools, making it an ideal place for families to settle down.
Community and Atmosphere
Orchard Park has a strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere. The town hosts many annual events such as the Quaker Arts Festival, Taste of Orchard Park, and the Fourth of July parade, bringing residents together to celebrate and enjoy the town.
Proximity to Buffalo
Orchard Park is just a short drive from Buffalo, making it a convenient location for those who work in the city but prefer a quieter lifestyle. Commuting is made easy with the NFTA Metro Rail system, which has a stop in the neighboring town of Hamburg.
Excellent Schools
Orchard Park has some of the best schools in the Buffalo area, with an overall rating of 9 out of 10 on GreatSchools. The district has six elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school, providing a top-quality education for students of all ages.
Parks and Recreation
Orchard Park is home to several parks, including Chestnut Ridge Park, which features hiking trails, sledding hills, and picnic areas. The town also has a community center that offers programs and classes for all ages.
Housing Options
Orchard Park offers a variety of housing options, from spacious estates to more affordable single-family homes. The median home price in Orchard Park is around $430,000, which is higher than most other suburbs of Buffalo but still more affordable than many other major cities in the United States.
Amenities:
Orchard Park is home to a variety of amenities, making it a desirable suburb for anyone. The village center offers a charming downtown area with shops, restaurants, and community events. Additionally, Orchard Park has several parks and recreational areas, including Chestnut Ridge Park, which features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a toboggan run. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the Orchard Park Youth Sports Association, which offers a variety of programs for children, including baseball, basketball, and football. The town is also home to the Orchard Park Country Club, which offers golf, swimming, and tennis. With so many amenities available, Orchard Park is an excellent choice for families looking for a well-rounded community.
3. Amherst
Located just northeast of Buffalo, Amherst is a charming suburb known for its excellent schools, numerous shopping and dining options, and beautiful parks. Here are some of the top reasons families choose to call Amherst home:
Award-Winning Schools:
Amherst is home to the highly-regarded Williamsville Central School District, which consistently ranks as one of the best in Western New York. The district includes several National Blue Ribbon Schools and offers a variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities to help students excel.
Convenient Location:
Amherst is conveniently located just a short drive from downtown Buffalo, making it an ideal choice for those who want easy access to the city's amenities while still enjoying the benefits of suburban living.
Beautiful Parks:
Amherst boasts a number of beautiful parks and green spaces, including the popular Amherst State Park and Glen Park. These parks offer residents plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Diverse Dining and Shopping Options:
With a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and shops, Amherst has something to offer everyone. From upscale boutiques to major retailers, the area's shopping centers have everything you need to stock up on essentials or indulge in some retail therapy.
Strong Community Spirit:
Amherst residents are proud of their community, and it shows. The area is home to a number of civic organizations, community groups, and events that bring neighbors together and foster a sense of belonging.
Proximity to Major Attractions:
Amherst is just a short drive from some of Western New York's major attractions, including Niagara Falls, the Buffalo Zoo, and the Albright-Knox Art Gallery. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the region and taking advantage of all it has to offer.
IV. How to Choose the Right Suburb for You
Consider Your Budget:
When looking for a suburb to relocate to, it's important to consider your budget. Take a look at your income, expenses, and lifestyle to determine what you can comfortably afford. Keep in mind that living in a suburb can often mean more space and more house, but also comes with higher property taxes.
Prioritize Your Needs and Wants:
Make a list of your must-haves and your nice-to-haves in a suburb. This could include things like access to top-rated schools, a low crime rate, or proximity to parks and outdoor recreation. Knowing what you prioritize can help narrow down your options and make the decision-making process easier.
Research the Local Schools:
If you have children or plan to have them in the future, the quality of local schools is likely to be a top priority. Look up the school district rankings and reviews online, and consider visiting the schools in person if possible. Keep in mind that even if you don't have kids, living in an area with good schools can boost your property value.
Look for Access to Amenities and Attractions:
Consider what amenities and attractions are important to you and your family. This could include things like shopping centers, restaurants, parks, and entertainment options. Research the availability of these amenities in the suburbs you are considering.
Evaluate the Commute:
Think about how far you are willing to commute to work or other important locations. Consider the distance, traffic patterns, and public transportation options. Keep in mind that living in a suburb farther from the city center may mean a longer commute, but also potentially a quieter and more spacious living environment.
Work with US:
Working with a local Realtor expert like us, who is familiar with the Buffalo area and its suburbs can be a great asset. We can provide you with valuable insight into different neighborhoods and help guide you through the home-buying process. Just hit the contact us button below and send us a call, text or email!
By considering these factors and doing your research, you can find the suburb that best fits your lifestyle and budget. Keep in mind that everyone's priorities and preferences are different, so what works for one family may not work for another. Take the time to explore your options and make a decision that you feel confident and comfortable with.