Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Buffalo, MN
Thinking of moving to Buffalo, MN? With a population of 16,500, Buffalo offers affordable living with median home prices around $345,000 and average rents at $1,325. Residents enjoy short commutes of about 28 minutes, a low violent crime rate of 110 per 100K, and a high rate of health insurance coverage. Families benefit from strong local schools and the friendly, small-town atmosphere, while all enjoy the city’s four-season climate and 60% sunny days a year.
Demographics - Buffalo, MN
Demographics - Buffalo, MN
Buffalo, MN has a population of approximately 16,500 residents, with a median age of 36.8 years and a balanced gender ratio. The city is predominantly White (over 92%), with a small proportion of non-English speakers, contributing to its cohesive small-town atmosphere. Moderate population density and diversity offer a welcoming environment for newcomers.
Population:
16,500
Density:
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.8
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.6%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.1%
Black:
1.5%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
5.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Buffalo, MN?
Living in Buffalo is relatively affordable, with a median home value of $345,000 and average rent around $1,325 for a two-bedroom. The overall cost of living index is just above the national average, making it a practical choice for families and individuals seeking value without sacrificing amenities. Utilities and groceries are in line with state averages, and state income tax rates range from 5.35% to 9.85%.
Median House Value:
$345,000
Gross Rent:
$1,325
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,340
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$650
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.2
Grocery:
101.8
Housing:
104.6
Utilities:
102.3
Transportation:
101.2
Health Care:
103.5
Miscellaneous:
99.8
Crime
Is Buffalo, MN a safe place to live?
Buffalo is considered a safe community, with a violent crime rate of just 110 per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 1,080 per 100,000 residents. The odds of experiencing violent crime are about 1 in 910, significantly lower than many U.S. cities. This low crime environment makes Buffalo an appealing place for families and retirees alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
110
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,080
Crime Index:
1,190
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 910
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 93
Weather
What is the weather like in Buffalo, MN year-round?
Buffalo experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging 6°F to 25°F and pleasant summers ranging from 58°F to 83°F. Residents enjoy about 60% sunny days yearly and moderate annual rainfall of nearly 30 inches. The varied climate is ideal for those who appreciate seasonal changes and outdoor activities throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
6°F
Max:
25°F

Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
29.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Buffalo’s residents enjoy a median household income of $84,500 and a low poverty rate of 6%, reflecting a stable and prosperous community. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and the area boasts an unemployment rate of just 3.1%. Commute times average just under 30 minutes, making it convenient for those working in nearby areas.
Median Income:
$43,000
Household Income:
$84,500
Family Income:
$96,800
Per Capita Income:
$36,400
Income Male:
$50,900
Income Female:
$40,600
Poverty Rate:
6.0%
Non English Speakers:
4.6%
Rent:
$1,325
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
28.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
94.2%
Bachelors or More:
31.7%
Education
How are the schools in Buffalo, MN?
Buffalo is served by reputable public schools such as Buffalo High School, with strong student-to-teacher ratios and diverse educational options. The area also offers private schooling and access to technical training at Wright Technical Center, with higher education opportunities nearby at St. Cloud State University. Families can expect quality education at all levels within and around the city.

Public Schools
Name:
Buffalo High School
Street:
877 Bison Blvd
Phone:
763-682-8100
Students:
1,750
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.6
Name:
Northwinds Elementary
Street:
1111 7th St NE
Phone:
763-682-8800
Students:
610
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4

Private Schools
Name:
St. Francis Xavier Catholic School
Street:
219 19th St NW
Phone:
763-684-0075
Students:
200

Colleges
Name:
Wright Technical Center
City:
Buffalo
State:
MN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
500
Name:
St. Cloud State University
City:
St. Cloud
State:
MN
Distance:
35 miles
Students:
10,000
Healthcare
Buffalo offers quality healthcare with access to Buffalo Hospital – Allina Health, providing general and emergency services locally. The city has about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 95% health insurance coverage, ensuring comprehensive care for all ages. Healthcare services are easily accessible and meet the needs of a growing population.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Buffalo Hospital – Allina Health
Address:
303 Catlin St, Buffalo, MN 55313
Phone:
(763) 682-1212
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.3%
Health Care Index:
77.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Buffalo, MN?
Buffalo’s housing market features a median home price of $345,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 76%, indicating strong community roots. Rental options remain available, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,325 and a low vacancy rate. Home values have appreciated by 4.6% over the past year, reflecting a healthy and stable real estate market.
Median Home Price:
$345,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,325
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents can access vehicle and driver services at the local Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office on 2nd St NW in Buffalo. The office provides essential DMV services for licensing, registration, and more, supported by a user-friendly state website. Convenient local access makes managing transportation needs straightforward for Buffalo residents.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
10 2nd St NW, Buffalo, MN 55313
Phone:
1-651-297-2126
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.