New Influx of Immigrants Provides Much-Needed Boost to Fast-Shrinking Upstate City
Buffalo, New York, once a thriving hub of manufacturing in the 1950s, has experienced a steady decline in population over the years. However, recent data from the United States Postal Service indicates that the city is experiencing a resurgence due to an influx of immigrants. In fact, nine out of the ten neighborhoods in New York State that lost the most population in 2023 were in Buffalo. This trend has brought renewed hope to a city that has seen its population decline by 52.3 percent since its manufacturing heyday.
One might wonder why immigrants would choose to settle in Buffalo, given its harsh weather conditions. The city experiences arctic cold and heavy snowfall, making it the snowiest city in the country with an average of 95 inches per year. However, according to Frederick Floss, co-director of the Center for Economic Education at SUNY Buffalo, the city’s immigrant population has played a significant role in its revival. Immigrants from the Middle East, Somalia, Bangladesh, and Ethiopia have made Buffalo their home, bringing with them their families and contributing to the city’s cultural diversity. Additionally, immigrant-owned restaurants have improved the city’s culinary scene, further enhancing its appeal.
Furthermore, immigrants and refugees have played an essential role in revitalizing neighborhoods that were once abandoned. Erin St. John Kelly, the External Relations Director of WEDI (Westminster Economic Development Initiative), explains that immigrants have breathed new life into these areas and added value to the city as a whole. They have also transformed Buffalo into a cultural hub, attracting residents and visitors alike.
Despite this positive trend, Buffalo still faces challenges. Like many cities across the country, downtown Buffalo is struggling with empty office space. The pandemic has led to a significant increase in remote work, which has resulted in a decline in downtown occupancy rates. There is concern that the lack of lease renewals will lead to a lack of necessary services for area residents. The decline in property tax income is also a worry, potentially affecting the city’s ability to provide essential services.
However, Buffalo has received a boost from the auto industry. The city experienced minimal disruption due to the United Auto Workers strike in 2023, and General Motors has announced a $300 million investment in its Tonawanda engine plant, bringing job opportunities to the area. The presence of these auto jobs has helped stabilize Buffalo’s job market, providing a source of consistent employment.
In 2007, Harvard University Professor of Economics Edward Glaeser famously referred to Buffalo as “one of America’s fastest dying cities.” However, he now acknowledges that his assessment may have been too harsh. Glaeser believes that Buffalo’s labor demand and the availability of jobs will continue to attract workers to the city. While Buffalo has experienced a long decline, it is not currently facing an immediate crisis.
The healthcare industry is another significant contributor to Buffalo’s economy. With institutions such as Kaleida Health, Catholic Health Systems, and Roswell Park Cancer Institute employing a combined total of 19,000 people, the healthcare sector is thriving. However, rapid growth in this industry has raised concerns about a shortage of healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses. The arrival of the Cleveland Clinic in the area has also impacted the job market.
Efforts are underway to revitalize downtown Buffalo, with the construction of a new stadium for the NFL’s Buffalo Bills football team. The $1.5 billion project is being hailed as the largest economic development endeavor in Western New York history. However, opinions are divided on whether moving the stadium downtown from its current suburban location is a wise decision. While some believe it will stimulate economic activity, others argue that the location and projected revenue may not be ideal.
Despite its struggles, Buffalo remains an attractive city for many residents. Its strong sense of community, affordable housing options, and quality education opportunities make it an appealing place to raise a family. Families are the backbone of Buffalo, and its small Chicago-like atmosphere fosters a family-oriented environment.
Overall, Buffalo is experiencing a revival thanks to an influx of immigrants and refugees. These newcomers are revitalizing neighborhoods, adding cultural diversity, and contributing to the city’s growth. While challenges remain, particularly in terms of downtown revitalization and job market stability, Buffalo’s resilience and community spirit are helping it overcome these obstacles. As the city continues to evolve, it remains a place where families can thrive and create a bright future.
