Moving to Buford, Georgia: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering moving to Buford, Georgia? This thriving Gwinnett County city offers Mall of Georgia, Lake Lanier access, and excellent schools. With approximately 17,000 residents in 2025, Buford combines retail destination status with lakefront lifestyle and Northeast Metro Atlanta convenience.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Buford:

Buford’s 2025 population is approximately 17,000 residents in this Gwinnett County city (with portions in Hall County) at the southern tip of Lake Lanier. The median age is around 38 years, with families, professionals, and diverse residents. The population is approximately 52% White, 28% Hispanic, 12% Black or African American, 6% Asian. Buford features the massive Mall of Georgia (Georgia’s largest shopping center), lakefront properties, and quality neighborhoods. The city attracts families seeking excellent schools and lake access with Atlanta proximity. The community balances retail destination status with residential character and lake lifestyle.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Buford:

Buford offers moderate to upper-moderate housing costs for Metro Atlanta. Median home values range from $380,000 to $520,000 in 2025, with Lake Lanier properties commanding higher prices. The median household income is approximately $85,000. Rental properties average $1,700 to $2,400 monthly. Georgia’s state income tax is 5.75%. Overall cost of living reflects Buford’s schools, lake access, and retail amenities. The city attracts middle to upper-middle class families and professionals. Housing costs reflect the area’s quality schools and Lake Lanier lifestyle.

Economy and Job Market:

Buford residents typically work throughout Metro Atlanta or at local employers. The Mall of Georgia and surrounding retail development create extensive service and retail employment. Major nearby employers include healthcare facilities, schools, and businesses throughout Gwinnett County. Many residents work in professional services, healthcare, retail, and corporate sectors. The broader Atlanta metro offers vast opportunities. Typical commute times to Atlanta range 40-55 minutes. The Mall of Georgia’s economic impact provides significant local employment.

Education:

Gwinnett County Public Schools serves Buford students with highly-rated schools including Buford High School (consistently among Georgia’s best), Mill Creek High School, and top-performing elementary and middle schools. The consistently excellent district attracts families specifically for educational quality. The strong school system is the primary reason families relocate to Buford, creating education-focused community values and competitive academic environment.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

Buford offers premier shopping at Mall of Georgia, one of the Southeast’s largest shopping centers with extensive retail, dining, and entertainment. Lake Lanier provides exceptional recreation with boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports just minutes away. Lake Lanier Islands Resort offers beaches, water park, and golf. Residents enjoy easy access to the lake’s 692 miles of shoreline. Bogan Park Community Recreation and Aquatic Center provides facilities. The lifestyle emphasizes shopping convenience, lake recreation, and family activities with Atlanta access. The four-season climate enables year-round activities. The community values education, lake lifestyle, and retail amenities. Living near Lake Lanier creates resort-like atmosphere within Metro Atlanta.

Healthcare and Services:

Buford residents access comprehensive healthcare through Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton, Northside Hospital Forsyth, Gwinnett Medical Center, and facilities throughout the region. The Atlanta metro’s extensive healthcare infrastructure provides quality medical care easily accessible.

Transportation:

Buford is accessed via Interstate 985, Interstate 85, U.S. Highway 23, and Mall of Georgia Boulevard. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is approximately 60 minutes south. Gwinnett County Transit provides limited bus service. Most residents use personal vehicles. Typical commute times to Atlanta employment centers range 45-65 minutes depending on traffic.

Conclusion:

Moving to Buford in 2025 offers excellent suburban living with Mall of Georgia shopping, Lake Lanier recreation, and top schools. The city’s combination of retail destination, lakefront lifestyle, and educational excellence makes it ideal for families and professionals seeking Northeast Metro Atlanta living where shopping meets lake life and quality schools define the community at Lanier’s southern gateway.