Life in Buford, GA
Buford, Georgia is a fast-growing city in Gwinnett and Hall Counties, located about 40 miles northeast of Atlanta. Known for its excellent schools, vibrant downtown, and access to Lake Lanier, Buford blends historic charm with modern suburban development. It’s an attractive destination for families, professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Buford Neighborhoods
- Historic Downtown Buford: Features art galleries, restaurants, and antique shops in a walkable setting.
- Buford City Schools District: Highly desirable neighborhoods with award-winning public schools.
- Lanier Islands Area: Lakefront homes and vacation-style living near Lake Lanier.
- Hamilton Mill (Buford Zip Code): Upscale planned community with swim/tennis amenities.
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Buford Population
Buford has a population of approximately 19,000, with rapid growth due to its school system and location near shopping and recreation.
Buford Demographics
- White: 57%
- African American: 19%
- Hispanic or Latino: 17%
- Asian: 5%
- Median Age: 35 years
- Median Household Income: $80,000
Buford Schools
- Operated by Buford City Schools and Gwinnett County Public Schools
Top Schools:
- Buford High School (Buford City Schools - top-rated in GA)
- Buford Middle School
- Patrick Elementary (Gwinnett County)
- Lanier High School (Gwinnett County)
Daycare & After-School Care
- Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Buford
- The Goddard School
- Legacy Academy for Children
- YMCA after-school programs
Extracurricular Activities
- Dance: Buford School of Ballet
- Swim: SwimAtlanta Buford
- Martial Arts: Buford Family Martial Arts
- Art & Music: Tannery Row Artist Colony, Buford Community Center
Buford in Known for
- Lake Lanier and Lanier Islands
- Buford City Schools' academic excellence
- The Mall of Georgia (largest mall in Georgia)
- A revitalized historic district and arts community
Parks and Recreation
- Bogan Park (indoor pool, walking trails, sports fields)
- Buford Dam Park (picnicking and fishing on Lake Lanier)
- Gary Pirkle Park (multi-use fields, playground)
- Buford Nature Preserve (trails and wetlands)
Weather
- Winters: Mild (lows in the 30s-40s)
- Summers: Hot and humid (highs in the 80s-90s)
- Spring/Fall: Excellent for outdoor festivals and lake activities
Living in Buford
Owners vs Renters
- Homeownership rate: 66%
- Renting: 34%, mostly near Mall of Georgia and apartment communities along major highways
Why Live in Buford?
- Access to quality schools and outdoor recreation
- Family-friendly with safe, walkable areas
- Retail and dining hub in the northeast metro
- Short commute to I-85 and I-985
Working in Buford
Major Employers & Top Hiring Fields
- Buford City Schools
- Gwinnett County Government
- Northeast Georgia Health System
- Retail giants at Mall of Georgia
Hiring Sectors:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Retail & Hospitality
- Logistics and Warehousing
Transportation
- Access to I-985, I-85, and GA-20
- Gwinnett County Transit (bus service)
- Approx. 60-70 minutes to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Shopping, Dining and Entertainment
Grocery Stores
- Publix, Kroger, Walmart, ALDI
- Sprouts Farmers Market and Buford Farmers Market
Dining Scene
- Aqua Terra Bistro (fine dining)
- Rico's World Kitchen (global comfort food)
- Praise the Lard BBQ
- Biba's Italian Restaurant
- Bare Bones Steakhouse
Entertainment Options
- Buford Community Center (performing arts, events)
- Tannery Row Ale House (live music)
- Lake Lanier Water Park and Beaches
- Bogan Park Aquatic Center and Gym
Community Services & Resources in Buford
Emergency & Healthcare Services
- Police: Buford City Police / Gwinnett County Police Department
- Fire: Gwinnett County Fire Services
- Hospitals: Northeast Georgia Medical Center - Braselton
- Urgent Care: Northside Urgent Care, Peachtree Immediate Care Buford
Medical Providers
- Buford Family Practice
- Longstreet Clinic - Buford
- Pediatric Associates of North Georgia
- Local dental, vision, and specialty offices throughout the city
Religious Institutions
- Buford First Baptist Church
- St. Mary & St. Martha of Bethany Episcopal Church
- Christ the King Lutheran Church
- Local mosques and synagogues accessible in nearby Suwanee and Duluth
