Living in Buford, Georgia

Lake Town Living with Big-City Shopping

Buford combines small-town charm with modern suburban convenience: a historic city near the shores of Lake Lanier with family-friendly neighborhoods, strong schools, and major shopping and dining — all within reach of Atlanta.

From established neighborhoods and newer developments to areas near the lake and downtown, Buford appeals to families, professionals, and retirees — especially if you want access to Lake Lanier recreation, commuter routes, and a wide mix of retail and restaurants.

Counties Primarily Gwinnett; small portion in Hall County
Vibe Family-oriented, lake-adjacent, growing — with historic roots
City Population
~18,600
2024 population estimate (city)
Incorporated
1872
Historic city with railroad-era growth
Median Household Income
$71,598
2019–2023 estimate
Avg. Commute Time
24.2 min
Mean travel time to work (2019–2023)
Location
Lake Lanier Area

Convenient to GA-20 / I-85 corridors and lake recreation

Residents
~18.6K

City population estimate (2024)

Median Income
$71.6K

Median household income (2019–2023)

Homeownership
70.5%

Owner-occupied housing rate (2019–2023)

Major Attraction
Mall of Georgia

Regional destination with 200+ stores

Neighborhoods

Where People Live in Buford

Buford includes a mix of established subdivisions, newer communities, and areas closer to the lake. Many homeowners look for convenient access to schools, shopping, parks, and commuter routes.

Common “search areas” include downtown Buford, neighborhoods near the Mall of Georgia corridor, and communities with quick drives to Lake Lanier access points and marinas.

Popular Areas

Homebuyers and renters often explore:

  • Downtown Buford – Local shops, dining, and community events.
  • Mall of Georgia Corridor – Retail, restaurants, and newer development.
  • Lake-Access Areas – Neighborhoods with easy drives to the water.
  • Established Subdivisions – Mature trees and long-standing communities.
  • New Construction Pockets – Modern homes and updated layouts.
Who Lives Here

Population & Demographics

Buford is a growing city with an estimated population of about 18,600 (2024). The community includes long-time residents and newer households drawn by schools, shopping, and access to major corridors.

  • Median household income: $71,598 (2019–2023 estimate).
  • Homeownership rate: 70.5% (2019–2023).
  • Education: 84.4% high school graduate or higher; 31.4% bachelor’s degree or higher (2019–2023).
  • Diversity: 57.2% White alone, 11.3% Black alone, 3.3% Asian alone, 31.1% Hispanic or Latino (2020).

The result is a dynamic city that blends historic character with modern suburban convenience, with strong regional draw for retail and recreation.

Buford Snapshot
  • City Type: Historic city with lake-area access
  • Incorporated: 1872
  • Primary Housing: Single-family homes, townhomes, and nearby lake communities
  • Lifestyle: Family-oriented, retail-rich, recreation-friendly
Education

Schools & Educational Excellence

Buford is widely known for strong schools, including the Buford City School District for students within city limits. Areas outside the city may be served by Gwinnett County Public Schools or Hall County Schools depending on address.

Buford City Schools

Families often prioritize school zoning when choosing neighborhoods in and around Buford. If you’re moving, confirm attendance zones by address (boundaries can change).

Surrounding District Options

Many “Buford” mailing addresses are outside city limits and may fall into Gwinnett County or Hall County schools — so it’s worth verifying early in the home search.

Why It Matters

School zoning often influences home values and demand. Clarifying city-limits vs. nearby unincorporated areas helps set expectations.

Local Flavor

Shopping, Dining & Things to Do

Buford offers a strong mix of local spots and regional destinations — from downtown events to major shopping and dining near the Mall of Georgia.

Mall of Georgia

  • Regional destination with 200+ stores and dining options.
  • Major retail mix plus entertainment in the surrounding area.
  • Easy access from I-85 makes it a true metro draw.

Downtown Buford

  • Local dining, small businesses, and community events.
  • Historic feel that contrasts with the newer retail corridors.
  • Great option for families who want “small town” energy.

Lake & Recreation

  • Quick drives to marinas and lake-access recreation areas.
  • Seasonal events and outdoor weekends are a big part of local life.
  • Good mix of parks, trails, and nearby waterfront activities.
Getting Around

Commute & Transportation

Buford is well-connected via I-85 and major surface roads, making commutes to Atlanta and nearby job centers doable for many households.

Typical Commute Profile

  • Mean travel time to work: 24.2 minutes (2019–2023).
  • Many residents commute to Gwinnett job hubs and metro Atlanta corridors.
  • Work-from-home is also a meaningful share of households.

Highway Access

I-85 drives most regional connectivity. GA-20 and other arterials connect residential areas to retail corridors, schools, and lake access.

Regional Connections

Buford sits in a convenient position for trips to Atlanta, Gainesville, and other North Georgia destinations — especially for weekend lake and mountain plans.

Protecting What Matters

Home Security Solutions for Buford Residents

In a growing lake-area community, professionally monitored security helps protect suburban homes, properties near retail corridors, and residences with seasonal travel patterns. Callaway Security has protected Georgia homes and businesses for more than three decades and serves Buford and the surrounding Lake Lanier area.

24/7 UL-Listed Alarm Monitoring

Fast, reliable response for intrusion, fire, and medical alarms. If we can't reach you, first responders are dispatched, helping protect your Buford home around the clock.

Smart Security Systems

Easy-to-use panels, door/window sensors, and smart locks that work with your phone — ideal for busy households and properties that need reliable remote control.

Indoor & Outdoor Cameras

Cameras for front doors, driveways, and property perimeters, with motion alerts and recorded clips so you can see what’s happening day or night.

Fire, CO & Environmental Protection

Monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detection, plus optional water-leak sensors to help reduce risk from fire, gas leaks, and water damage.

Smart Home Integration

Connect thermostats, lights, and other devices so you can control your Buford home from a single app — helpful for frequent travelers and second-home style schedules.

Custom-Designed Systems

Every home is different. Callaway Security designs custom security solutions tailored to your Buford property layout and day-to-day needs.

Get A Custom Home Security Quote Today!

Call (770) 395-9692 Now! Or Fill Out The Form Below.