Amherst

by The Linguist

Amherst is a town in Erie County, New York, United States. As of the 2020 census, the town had a total population of 128,668, making it the largest suburb of Buffalo and the second most populous town in New York after Hempstead on Long Island.

Population

According to the Wikipedia page for Amherst, the town’s population was 128,668 at the 2020 census. This makes Amherst the most populous suburb of Buffalo and the second most populous town in the state of New York after Hempstead on Long Island. The town’s population density was 1,836.8 inhabitants per square mile.

Some key facts about Amherst’s demographics:

  • 81.6% White
  • 7.6% Asian
  • 6.2% Black or African American
  • 3.3% Hispanic or Latino of any race

The population growth rate from 2010 to 2020 was 2.5%. Amherst is considered part of the Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area.

Economy and Major Employers

Some of the key industries and major employers in Amherst, according to the town’s website, include:

  • Education – University at Buffalo, Buffalo State College
  • Financial services – M&T Bank, KeyBank
  • Health care – Kaleida Health, Catholic Health System
  • Technology and research – General Dynamics, Pratt & Whitney, Moog Inc.
  • Retail – Wegmans, Walmart, Target
  • Hospitality and tourism – hotels, restaurants, attractions

Major employers in Amherst with over 1,000 employees include the University at Buffalo, Kaleida Health, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, General Dynamics, and Moog Inc. The town has a highly educated workforce, with over 60% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.

The median household income in Amherst is $77,504, which is higher than the national median. The town has economic advantages due to its proximity to downtown Buffalo, transportation access, mix of industries, and educated workforce.

Attractions and Landmarks

Some of the top attractions and landmarks in Amherst include:

  • Amherst State Park – A state park with hiking trails, picnic areas, sports facilities and more.
  • Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens – Indoor and outdoor gardens with beautiful displays year-round.
  • The Village of Williamsville – A quaint, walkable village with shops, restaurants and historic homes.
  • Kleinhans Music Hall – Home to the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, with art deco architecture.
  • Buffalo Zoo – A large zoo with exotic animals and fun activities.

Amherst also has over 20 public golf courses, several museums, dozens of parks, a renovated Erie Canal trail, and shopping destinations like the Walden Galleria mall.

Sports

Amherst is home to the NFL’s Buffalo Bills, whose stadium and training facility are located in the town. The Bills have a loyal local fanbase and draw fans from across Western New York and Southern Ontario.

Other sports teams based in Amherst include:

Amherst has extensive parks and recreation facilities for youth sports leagues including baseball, soccer, football, basketball, and more. Popular outdoor recreation activities include golfing, hiking, cycling, tennis, and cross-country skiing.

Local Government

Amherst has a town supervisor and a 6-member town council serving as the legislative body. The current town supervisor is Brian J. Kulpa, who was re-elected in 2021. Residents can learn more about local government initiatives, meetings, and services on the Town of Amherst website.

Stay Connected

To stay up to date on news and events in Amherst, check out the following: