$247,570Average Value$132Average Price per Sq Ft6Homes For Sale
Growing in diversity of all kinds
West Side is on a roll with increased walkability, investment in small businesses and housing rehabilitation. "It's a great place to live, and plenty of diversity exists. Not just with race and ethnicity, but diversity in age, language, dress, opinion and lifestyle," says Mary Schaefer, the director of operations for West Side Community Services. Public parks add to the area's appeal, as does its proximity to downtown Buffalo and Niagara Falls. A large part of the neighborhood's charm exists in its colorful collection of small businesses and community organizations, including a "cluster of community gardens in empty lots throughout the residential streets," Schaefer notes. West Side is lively and quirky and has brought an increase in young renters and buyers over the past ten years.
Becoming a hub for eating local
Small markets for quick grocery trips are around. Still, for national grocers and familiar retailers, residents must head a few miles from the city to the shopping plazas and malls of Elmwood or Cheektowaga. The Left Bank is the neighborhood's premier dining location, serving Italian and global cuisine in a white tablecloth setting for over 30 years. Five Points Bakery and Butter Block are bakeries that share an intersection and compete for the attention of passer-byers on the street, with mouthwatering aromas luring customers in. Shaefer notes, "West Side Bazaar is just north of the neighborhood and is a non-profit organization that holds space for local restaurants and small businesses" to get their feet wet in the community.
An involved community
Residents can count on various year-round community events, including picnics, outdoor festivals and civic engagements. "The area is very friendly to refugees and there are a few programs that work to help resettle them in West Side and get them involved with the neighborhood," Schaefer says. In addition, Kleinhans Music Hall, designated as a historic landmark and home to the award-winning Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, is conveniently located within the neighborhood.
Colorful homes and investment opportunities
Although 75% of the residents in West Side are renters, the area is a superb destination for those looking to set down roots and own. Schaefer states, "There are a lot of multi-unit houses with split floors and big front porches. They certainly aren't cookie-cutter though, and they vary in color, style and architecture." Investment opportunities are plentiful, and buyers can find homes between $150,000 and $340,000. A few outliers are on either side, like small bungalows needing love or large historic mansions that have been perfectly preserved for over 100 years, reaching upwards of $475,000. The narrow Victorian homes sell quickly, usually lasting only three weeks on the market. "Within the last ten years, there has been a big decrease in empty properties," Schaefer says.
A surprising amount of green space in a major city
The most extensive park in the area, Ralph Wilson Park, "Is undergoing a massive renovation and is set to reopen in the coming years," Schaefer informs. It's the busiest spot in the area on warm summer days, home to baseball diamonds, a dog park, a skatepark and a pool. While the park is undergoing renovations, residents can stretch their legs on the walking trails and soccer fields at Front Park or play a game of tennis on the provided courts. Living along the Niagara River has its perks, one of which is easy access to the Empire State Trail, a paved walking and biking trail that stretches over 750 miles throughout New York state up to the Canadian border.
No need for a bus with schools so close
Dr. Antonia Pantoja Community School is in the neighborhood and walkable for most students. The institution serves pre-k through 8th grade and is rated a C-minus by Niche. High Schoolers are likely to attend Leonardo Da Vinci High School, which receives a high grade of A-minus. The school not only has the highest level of diversity but holds a low student-teacher ratio of 10 to 1.
Digging cars out of the snow
Because the houses sit tightly together, driveways and off-street parking are rare. And with upwards of 15 feet of snow every winter, street parking can be a struggle. Fortunately for residents, the area is very walkable, and "It's the kind of place where if your car does get stuck in a blizzard, strangers will help you push it out," Schaefer says. The Peace Bridge takes off from West Side, leading to Canada across the Niagara River. The Buffalo Metro Rail leads northeast, stopping at 16 stations, and Buffalo Niagara International Airport is less than 10 miles away.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kamran Mazhar,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Rotary Park
Bike Trails
Trails
Prospect Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Delaware Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Bike Trails
Front Park
Picnic Area
Soccer
Tennis
Lasalle Park
Baseball/Softball
Bike Trails
Dog Park
Massachusetts Avenue Park
Basketball
Picnic Area
Trails
Ralph C. Wilson Jr Centennial Park
Freedom Park
Pat Sole Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Playground
Transit
Airport
Buffalo Niagara International
22 min drive
Bus
15th St
Bus
Niagara St & Connecticut St
Bus
Normal Ave & Vermont St
Bus
West Ave & Pennsylvania Sreet
Bus
Niagara St & Hampshire St
Bus
Porter Ave & Jersey St
Bus
Niagara St & Jersey St
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
West Side
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
6
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in West Side, Buffalo sell after 34 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in West Side, Buffalo over the last 12 months is $238,537, up 4% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located on the much sought after Little Summer Street,” this charming two family home is perfect for an owner occupant or an investor. The lower unit offers an open feel with exposed brick and great natural light. The living room has hardwood floors, there is a nearby “office nook” and a hall closet. The nice size primary bedroom has a large closet, hardwood floors and direct access to the
Newly remodeled, two-family home offers 2 car garage with off street parking. Great investment opportunity or owner occupy!! Each unit has 2 bedrooms with one full bath, large and open living and dining areas and eat-in kitchens. The lower offers a rear deck and the upper, a balcony. Private driveway and 2 car garage offers plenty of parking for tenants. Updates include: ALL new in 2025-water
Stunning 4 Bed, 3.5 Bath Colonial on Symphony Circle in Buffalo’s Allentown District. Nestled in the heart of Buffalo's vibrant Allentown District, this meticulously restored Colonial home offers an unparalleled blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Located on the iconic Symphony Circle, the property overlooks the renowned Kleinhans Music Hall and the First Presbyterian Church, with easy
Welcome to 475 Fargo, an instant money maker. These stunning 4 occupied apartments and a 2000sq ft Grocery store front paying, on the corner of Fargo and Massachusetts is ready for a new owner. Updated and separate electric, newer windows throughout, 1 furnace /air conditioning unit for the store, 2 furnaces and 2 space heaters, vinyl siding and brick framed store front with nice curb appeal. 3
Investor’s dream! This fully updated triplex is a rare opportunity to own a turnkey property with strong income potential and minimal maintenance for years to come. Featuring three separate units, this building has undergone major updates in 2024 including a brand-new roof, all-new siding, modern electrical system, two new high-efficiency furnaces, and a new front porch that boosts curb appeal
Absolutely amazing property! you don't see such workmanship very often these days. Move in ready both units! Rent one and leave in another one rent both.Lower unit has 3 bedrooms specious bedrooms, fully remodeled bathroom and also added full bathroom for master bedroom. Brand new kitchens in both units with stainless steel appliances, restored hardwood floors, laundry rooms on each floors, brand
Located in the Lower West Side neighborhood and adjacent to Allentown and Elmwood Village, these brand new units are within walking distance of D’Youville, Front Park, and LaSalle Park and a short 5-10 minute drive to Allentown and Elmwood Village. This recently renovated property lies less than a mile from I-190 and the Peace Bridge, providing easy access to Downtown Buffalo, Grand Island, Fort
Great apartment for rent. Currently 2 bedrooms, but owner is willing to add a wall to make it a 3 bedroom if desired. Has ability to be either a 2 or 3 bedroom (there is an extra room) and will be done at tenants wishes before move-in if desired. Location is close to all conveniences. Apartment paint, flooring, kitchen, and bathroom all new. Cats considered with pet deposit. Year lease preferred,
Under new management, this property offers large renovated one bedroom units featuring hardwood floors, attached balcony or porch. Steps to Kleinhans Music hall and a short 5 min walk to Allentown, the building is minutes away from restaurants, shopping and public transportation. The property offers a quiet setting for home while still being close to all the city has to offer. Walk out
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kamran Mazhar,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
11,986
Median Age
34
Population Density
18 ppl/acre
Population under 18
26.6%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
12%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$40,565
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$59,295
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
76.1%
Below the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
31%
On par with the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
12.6%
% Population in Labor Force
66.7%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
40''
Average Winter Low Temperature
19°F
Average Summer High Temperature
80°F
Annual Snowfall
188''
Area Factors
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
74/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
84/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®
47/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
