Cost of Living in Buffalo, NY
Population: 276,397 • 2026 Data
$48,050
Median Household Income
-38% vs national
$989
Median Monthly Rent
-27% vs national
$152,300
Median Home Value
-55% vs national
7.2%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Buffalo
The median home value in Buffalo, NY is $152,300. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $989, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $929.
Rent-to-income ratio: 24.7%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Buffalo, NY is $48,050. The unemployment rate stands at 7.2%, with a labor force of 132,325 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.