Buford, GA
Population 17,611 · Georgia
About Buford, GA
Buford is a mid-sized city located in Georgia with a population of 17,611 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $71,598 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.1 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Buford features a median home value of $346,400, which is 41% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Buford in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,256, 8% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,896 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (3,676 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (1,540 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Buford shows an unemployment rate of 3.3%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 11.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Buford have an average one-way commute time of 24.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
30.3% of Buford residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 22.1% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 2.0% Black or African American, and 5.7% Asian residents, with 22.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Buford, GA
Compared to national averages, Buford has a median household income of $71,598 (5% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $346,400, which is 41% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,256 is 8% above the US average of $1,163. Within Georgia, Buford's income is 18% above the state average of $60,815, and home values are 78% above the state median of $194,684.
Why Live in Buford, GA?
Buford offers a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.3%, and a low poverty rate of 11.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($71,598) that falls below the national average. However, Buford’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Buford has a population of 17,611 with a median age of 35.1 years. Compare Buford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Georgia.
Similar Cities Near Buford
Cities in Georgia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calhoun | 17,611 | $51,439 | $240,700 | Compare |
| Norcross | 17,669 | $75,068 | $375,900 | Compare |
| Holly Springs | 17,693 | $111,224 | $414,700 | Compare |
| Villa Rica | 17,798 | $86,052 | $250,700 | Compare |
| Powder Springs | 17,414 | $96,961 | $283,700 | Compare |
| Richmond Hill | 17,408 | $89,910 | $272,100 | Compare |
| Conyers | 17,916 | $58,141 | $218,000 | Compare |
| Tifton | 17,140 | $44,324 | $161,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Georgia
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Buford With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Buford
What is the population of Buford, GA?
The population of Buford, GA is 17,611 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Georgia.
What is the median household income in Buford?
The median household income in Buford, GA is $71,598 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Buford?
The median home value in Buford, GA is $346,400, which is 41% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Buford?
The median monthly rent in Buford, GA is $1,256, which is 8% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Buford?
The unemployment rate in Buford, GA is 3.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Buford, GA a good place to live?
Buford offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 17,611 and a median age of 35.1, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Buford, GA?
30.3% of residents in Buford aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Buford?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Buford, GA: median home value is $346,400 (41% above national), median rent is $1,256/month, and median household income is $71,598. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Buford?
The poverty rate in Buford, GA is 11.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Buford, GA?
Buford's population is 22.1% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 2.0% Black or African American, 5.7% Asian, and 11.2% two or more races. 22.1% of residents are foreign-born.