Why Live in First Ward
The Old First Ward in Buffalo, New York, is a historic neighborhood known for its industrial roots and vibrant community life. Located a mile from Downtown Buffalo and 30 miles from Niagara Falls, this area has a rich history, particularly in the wheat industry. Silo City, with its towering grain elevators, has evolved into a cultural hub hosting various art events. The neighborhood retains its Irish heritage, evident in its long-standing pubs and riverside parks. Housing includes early 20th-century Shotgun-style homes, duplexes, and Victorians, many featuring inviting front porches and bay windows. Renovations are common, adding to the neighborhood's charm.
Recreational activities abound, with Riverworks offering roller derby, rock climbing, boating, and more. Mutual Riverfront Park and Buffalo River Fest Park provide scenic views and host summer concerts, while Conway Park offers playgrounds and baseball diamonds. Buffalo Harbor State Park, the city's first state park, is popular for live music, skateboarding, biking, and fishing.
For families, the neighborhood is served by Buffalo Public Schools, with nearby P.S. 304 and Hutchinson Central Technical High School receiving high ratings. Local amenities include Tops Friendly Market and The Downtown Country Market. Dining options reflect the area's Irish roots, with establishments like Adolf’s Old First Ward Tavern, Swannie House, and Gene McCarthy’s. Resurgence Brewing Company and Ballyhoo are also local favorites.
The Old First Ward hosts significant events such as The Old Neighborhood Parade and The Old First Ward Arts & Heritage Festival. Residents benefit from proximity to the Buffalo Skyway, Erie Canal Harbor station, and Interstate 190, with Mercy Hospital of Buffalo 3 miles away and Buffalo Niagara International Airport 12 miles away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is First Ward a good place to live?
First Ward is a good place to live. First Ward is considered somewhat walkable and bikeable with some transit options. First Ward is a suburban neighborhood. First Ward has 7 parks for recreational activities. It is sparse in population with 2.1 people per acre and a median age of 41. The average household income is $48,322 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 20.6% of residents. A majority of residents in First Ward are renters, with 57.8% of residents renting and 42.2% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving First Ward can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
First Ward neighborhood guide.
Is First Ward, NY a safe neighborhood?
First Ward, NY is less safe than the average neighborhood in the United States. It received a crime score of 6 out of 10.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in First Ward?
The median home price in First Ward is $364,000. If you put a 20% down payment of $72,800 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.74%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $1,890 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $81K a year to afford the median home price in First Ward. The average household income in First Ward is $48K.
What are the best public schools in First Ward?
The best public schools that serve First Ward are:
What are the best private schools in First Ward?
The best private schools that serve First Ward are:
What are the most popular zip codes in First Ward, Buffalo, NY?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near First Ward, Buffalo, NY?
Home Trends in First Ward, NY
On average, homes in First Ward, Buffalo sell after 61 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in First Ward, Buffalo over the last 12 months is $353,000.
Median Sale Price
$353,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$353,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$414
Number of Homes for Sale
1
Last 12 months Home Sales
5
Median List Price
$364,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
3%
