Buffalo Neighborhoods Ranked by Schools, Crime Scores, and Values
By Sharon Ben-Moshe · August 30, 2026
Erie County communities offer distinct housing price points and varying classroom test scores. Here is an analysis of Buffalo area ZIP codes based on state testing data, crime records, and local sales.
Buffalo and surrounding Erie County represent one of Upstate New York's primary economic and residential hubs. Housing in the region ranges from historic urban districts to established first-ring suburbs, each presenting different balances of safety, school quality, and property taxes.
Erie County ZIP codes ranked by data
NeighborScore rates Buffalo ZIP codes against New York state benchmarks. School proficiencies rely on records from the National Center for Education Statistics, while home values reflect current Erie County deed records.
- Amherst and Snyder (14226): Scores 59 overall with a 74 school score and 45 crime score. Median home price is $319,359 with median rent of $1,661, supported by the Amherst Central School District.
- Cheektowaga South (14227): Scores 58 overall with a 73 school score and 45 crime score. Median home price is $273,030 with median rent of $1,199, offering high value relative to state norms.
- Cheektowaga North (14225): Scores 55 overall with a 67 school score and 45 crime score. Median home price of $237,927 makes it one of the most accessible suburban options.
- West Seneca (14224): Scores 55 overall with a 67 school score and 45 crime score. Median property price is $302,441 with median rent of $1,533.
- North Buffalo (14216): Scores 55 overall with a 66 school score and 45 crime score. Median home price is $343,434, centered on the Hertel Avenue commercial corridor.
Schools and property values in Western New York
Suburban school districts in Erie County maintain higher math and reading scores than the central Buffalo City School District. NCES data confirms that Amherst and Cheektowaga public schools routinely exceed state medians in elementary testing benchmarks.
According to U.S. Census Bureau housing reports, Buffalo remains one of the most affordable metro areas in the Northeast, even as median purchase prices rose over recent years.
Evaluating Buffalo neighborhoods for your move
You can research specific ZIP scores on our Buffalo neighborhood guide or compare Amherst and Cheektowaga on the Buffalo compare tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Buffalo suburb has the highest school score?
Amherst ZIP 14226 ranks highest with a 74 school score, an overall score of 59, and a median home price of $319,359.
What is the median home price in Buffalo 14216?
North Buffalo ZIP 14216 has a median home price of $343,434 and a median monthly rent of $1,518.