Moving to Buffalo, MN: The Gem of Wright County You Need to Know About
Buffalo, Minnesota sits about 35 miles west of Minneapolis along I-94, and it might just be one of the most appealing small cities in the entire metro region. If you’re looking for a more rural, spacious lifestyle without losing access to Twin Cities amenities, Buffalo deserves serious consideration.
Small Town Charm, Real Community
Buffalo is the seat of Wright County, with a population of around 17,000. It has the feel of a genuine small town — walkable downtown, local businesses that know your name, community events that actually feel like community events. Yet it’s connected enough to the metro that you’re never far from what you need.
Buffalo Lake: The Heart of the City
Buffalo Lake is the defining feature of the city and a massive quality-of-life asset. The lake sits right next to downtown, with a beautiful park, beach, boat launch, and walking paths along the shoreline. Summer in Buffalo means swimming, fishing, paddleboarding, and evening walks with views that look like they belong on a postcard. For anyone who loves Minnesota lakes, Buffalo delivers in the most accessible way possible.
A Thriving Downtown
Buffalo’s downtown has a pleasant mix of local restaurants, shops, a historic movie theater, and community gathering spaces. Farmers markets run through the summer months, and the city hosts seasonal events that bring the community together. It’s the kind of downtown you want to actually spend time in, rather than drive past.
Excellent Schools
Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose School District (ISD 877) serves Buffalo with a strong reputation for academics, athletics, and community involvement. Families consistently cite the schools as a primary reason for choosing Buffalo, and class sizes in the district remain personal and manageable.
Housing and Space
One of Buffalo’s biggest draws is the space you get for your money. Compared to most Minneapolis suburbs, Buffalo offers significantly larger lots, more new construction options, and lower price points per square foot. If you’re looking for a three-car garage, a large backyard, or room to breathe, Buffalo is worth every mile of that 35-minute commute.
The Commute
Buffalo’s location on I-94 makes the drive to Minneapolis reasonably direct — typically 35–45 minutes in normal traffic. Many Buffalo residents work in the metro and appreciate coming home to a quieter, more spacious environment at the end of the day. The Northstar Commuter Rail Line also runs through nearby communities for those preferring transit.
Ready to Make the Move to Buffalo?
1st Class Moving serves Buffalo and all of Wright County, providing the same professional service we bring to the Minneapolis metro. Whether you’re moving out of the city or relocating within the region, we’ll get you there safely and efficiently. Contact us today for your free quote.
