Moving to Buford, Georgia: A Complete Guide for Moving, Living, and Getting Settled
In This Article
- TL;DR: Moving to Buford, Georgia
- Key Takeaways
- Where Is Buford, Georgia?
- What Is It Like Living in Buford?
- Buford Housing and Cost of Living
- Popular Areas and Neighborhoods Around Buford
- Schools in Buford
- Things to Do in Buford
- Lake Lanier
- Downtown Buford
- Parks
- Shopping
- Getting Around Buford
- What Should You Know Before Moving to Buford?
- How Much Does It Cost to Move to Buford, GA?
- Moving to Buford From Atlanta
- Moving to Buford From Out of State
- Packing for a Move to Buford
- Decluttering Before Moving to Buford
- Hiring Movers in Buford, GA
- Local Moving Services in Buford
- Moving Day Tips for Buford Residents
- Moving Checklist for Buford, Georgia
- Before the Move
- Is Buford, Georgia Growing?
- Related Guides: Moving to Buford
- Final Thoughts on Moving to Buford, GA
- Moving to Clarkston, Georgia: A Complete Guide for New Residents
- Moving to Lithonia, Georgia: A Complete Guide for New Residents
- Moving to Doraville, Georgia: A Complete Guide for New Residents
- Moving to Chamblee, Georgia: A Complete Guide for New Residents
- Moving to Stone Mountain, Georgia: A Complete Guide for New Residents
- Moving to Tucker, Georgia: A Complete Guide for New Residents
TL;DR: Moving to Buford, Georgia
Moving to Buford, GA can be a great fit for people looking for suburban living, convenient shopping, outdoor recreation, and access to the greater Atlanta area.
Buford offers a mix of established neighborhoods, newer homes and apartments, historic downtown, Lake Lanier recreation, and major shopping destinations like the Mall of Georgia.
Before moving, consider your housing budget, commute, school district, neighborhood, moving distance, and the logistics of your new home. Apartment and townhouse moves may involve elevators, stairs, parking restrictions, and HOA or property-management requirements, while larger suburban homes can require more movers, truck space, packing, and furniture protection.
Whether you’re moving to Buford from Atlanta, another Georgia city, or another state, planning your move early can help control costs and avoid last-minute problems.
Key Takeaways
- Buford is a growing community: Buford has experienced population growth and continued residential and commercial development.
- Location matters: Buford offers access to I-985, I-85, major roads, Lake Lanier, and the broader Atlanta metro area.
- Housing varies: You can find apartments, townhomes, established homes, and newer construction throughout the Buford area.
- The area is car-oriented: Most residents will find having a vehicle useful for commuting, shopping, appointments, and recreation.
- Lake Lanier is a major attraction: Boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities are easily accessible from the area.
- Downtown Buford has a different feel: Historic downtown offers locally owned businesses, restaurants, galleries, and community spaces.
- Check school assignments carefully: A Buford mailing address does not necessarily mean the property is located within the same school district, so verify the exact address.
- Moving costs depend on the move: Home size, distance, crew size, packing, stairs, elevators, parking, furniture, and storage can all affect the final price.
- Don’t overlook moving logistics: Apartment reservations, HOA rules, parking restrictions, narrow access points, and large furniture can affect moving day.
- Decluttering can save money: Selling or donating unwanted furniture and belongings before moving reduces the amount you need to transport.
- Professional movers can handle more than full-house moves: Local movers may also help with small moves, furniture delivery, U-Haul loading and unloading, POD/container loading, storage moves, and labor-only services.
- Plan ahead: Scheduling movers, packing early, confirming access requirements, and preparing your new home can make the move significantly easier.
If you’re thinking about moving to Buford, Georgia, you’re looking at one of the more active communities in the northeast Atlanta metro area. Buford combines suburban neighborhoods, newer residential developments, historic downtown, major shopping, access to Lake Lanier, and relatively convenient connections to Atlanta.
The city has also continued to grow. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates Buford’s population at 18,780 as of July 2025, up about 9.7% from the 2020 census base. (Census.gov)
For people relocating from Atlanta, another Georgia city, or out of state, Buford offers a mix of established neighborhoods and newer communities without requiring you to give up access to the amenities of the Atlanta metro area.
But before you rent a truck or schedule movers, it’s worth understanding what moving to Buford is actually like.
Quick Answer: Is Buford, GA a Good Place to Move?
Buford can be a practical choice for people who want suburban living with access to shopping, restaurants, recreation, schools, employment centers, and major highways.
Some of the biggest reasons people consider moving to Buford include:
- Access to Lake Lanier
- Historic downtown Buford
- Large shopping and entertainment options
- I-985 and nearby I-85 access
- Single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments
- Parks and recreational facilities
- Access to the Atlanta metro area
- A growing residential and commercial community
- Family-oriented neighborhoods
- A mix of established and newer housing
The city itself describes Buford as a community where residents can live, work, and enjoy shopping, recreation, history, and entertainment. (City of Buford, GA)
Where Is Buford, Georgia?
Buford is located in Gwinnett County and Hall County, approximately northeast of Atlanta.
The city sits near the southern end of Lake Lanier and has direct access to major transportation routes including I-985, with I-85 nearby. Major roads through the area include Buford Highway, Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, and SR 20. (City of Buford, GA)
That location is one of the biggest reasons people move to Buford.
You’re far enough outside central Atlanta to have a more suburban environment, while still being connected to the larger metro area.
For commuters, however, it’s important to remember that Atlanta-area traffic can make a drive considerably longer during peak periods. Your actual commute will depend heavily on where you work and which part of Buford you choose.
What Is It Like Living in Buford?
Buford has several different personalities depending on where you live.
Near historic downtown, you’ll find older homes, local businesses, restaurants, galleries, and community spaces.
Further from the traditional downtown area, you’ll encounter newer subdivisions, townhomes, apartment communities, shopping centers, and large commercial developments.
This means “living in Buford” can look very different from one neighborhood to another.
The city has also been planning for continued growth. Its 2045 Comprehensive Plan focuses on transportation, development, the downtown area, economic growth, and maintaining quality of life as Buford continues to change. (City of Buford, GA)
Buford Housing and Cost of Living
Housing is one of the first things you’ll want to research before moving.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the 2020–2024 median value of owner-occupied homes in Buford was $368,700, while the median gross rent was $1,357. These are Census estimates and shouldn’t be treated as a current quote for a particular property. (Census.gov)
Housing options include:
- Single-family homes
- Townhomes
- Condos
- Apartments
- New construction
- Established neighborhoods
- Larger suburban properties
Apartment pricing can vary substantially based on bedroom count, neighborhood, amenities, age, and proximity to major shopping and transportation routes.
If you’re moving to Buford on a budget, don’t only compare monthly rent or mortgage payments. Consider:
- Utilities
- HOA fees
- Property taxes
- Insurance
- Commute costs
- Parking
- Moving expenses
- Storage
- Maintenance
- Home furnishing costs
The cheapest home isn’t necessarily the cheapest place to live once all of the associated expenses are included.
Popular Areas and Neighborhoods Around Buford
One important thing to understand when searching for a home is that Buford’s commonly used area can extend beyond the boundaries of the City of Buford itself.
People searching for “homes in Buford” or “moving to Buford” may also be looking at communities around Sugar Hill, Flowery Branch, Hamilton Mill, Suwanee, Braselton, and other nearby areas.
Downtown Buford
Downtown is the historic heart of the community.
You’ll find locally owned businesses, restaurants, galleries, community events, and historic buildings around Main Street.
The city continues to invest in the downtown area and surrounding infrastructure. (City of Buford, GA)
Mall of Georgia Area
The Mall of Georgia area is one of Buford’s biggest commercial centers.
This part of the area is particularly convenient if you want easy access to shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and major roads.
The City of Buford identifies the Mall of Georgia as one of the area’s major shopping destinations. (City of Buford, GA)
Lake Lanier Area
If outdoor recreation is important to you, living closer to Lake Lanier can be a major attraction.
Residents have access to boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities around the lake and nearby recreation areas. (City of Buford, GA)
Newer Suburban Communities
Buford and the surrounding area have experienced significant residential development.
Newer communities can offer amenities such as:
- Clubhouses
- Swimming pools
- Sidewalks
- Playgrounds
- Community parks
- Larger homes
- Attached garages
However, newer developments can also have HOA restrictions and fees, so review those details before buying.
Schools in Buford
Education is one of the factors that attracts many families to the Buford area.
Buford has an independently operated city school system, while surrounding portions of the broader Buford area may fall into different school districts.
That distinction matters.
Don’t assume a Buford mailing address automatically means the same school district.
If schools are important to your move, verify the exact school assignment for the property you’re considering rather than relying solely on a real estate listing or neighborhood name.
The City of Buford identifies its independent school system as one of the community’s major assets. (City of Buford, GA)
Things to Do in Buford
You won’t have to travel into Atlanta every weekend to find something to do.
Lake Lanier
Lake Lanier is one of the defining recreational features of the area.
Depending on the season, residents can enjoy:
- Boating
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Camping
- Water activities
- Parks
- Lakefront recreation
The City of Buford maintains access to Lake Lanier boat ramps and several recreational facilities. (City of Buford, GA)
Downtown Buford
Downtown offers a completely different experience from the large commercial areas.
It’s a good place to walk around, grab something to eat, visit local businesses, and explore Buford’s historic character.
Parks
Buford operates several parks and recreation facilities, including Main Street Park and Amphitheater, City Park, Legion Fields, the Youth Sports Complex, tennis courts, walking trails, and lake access. (City of Buford, GA)
Shopping
The Mall of Georgia is a major shopping and entertainment destination, while downtown Buford offers smaller local businesses, galleries, restaurants, and antique shops. (City of Buford, GA)
Getting Around Buford
Buford is generally a car-oriented suburban community.
Major transportation routes include:
- I-985
- I-85
- Buford Highway
- Peachtree Industrial Boulevard
- SR 20
- Lanier Islands Parkway
The City of Buford identifies I-985, Buford Highway, Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, and SR 20 as important transportation corridors. (City of Buford, GA)
For many households, having a vehicle is the easiest way to handle everyday errands.
If you’re moving from a dense urban neighborhood in Atlanta, this is something to factor into your decision.
What Should You Know Before Moving to Buford?
Moving to Buford isn’t simply about getting your furniture from one house to another.
The logistics of the move can change considerably depending on the type of property you’re moving into.
For example, a move into a new subdivision might involve:
- Narrow streets
- HOA restrictions
- Limited parking
- Garage access
- Driveway slopes
- New construction
- Multiple flights of stairs
An apartment move can involve completely different challenges:
- Elevator reservations
- Loading zones
- Parking decks
- Long hallways
- Building access codes
- Move-in windows
- Stairs
Before moving day, ask your apartment complex, HOA, or property manager about any moving requirements.
How Much Does It Cost to Move to Buford, GA?
There isn’t one flat price for moving to Buford.
Your moving cost depends on several variables:
Size of the Move
A studio apartment with a few pieces of furniture is dramatically different from a four-bedroom house.
Moving Distance
A move from another Buford neighborhood will generally require a different amount of labor and travel than a move from Atlanta, another state, or across the country.
Number of Movers
Larger moves generally require more labor to complete efficiently and safely.
Packing Services
If you need professional packing, expect the total moving cost to increase based on the amount of packing required.
Stairs and Access
Stairs, elevators, long carries, narrow hallways, parking restrictions, and difficult furniture access can all affect the amount of labor required.
Storage
If your new home isn’t ready, you may need short-term or long-term storage.
For that reason, it’s better to get a detailed moving estimate based on your actual inventory and move conditions instead of relying on a generic online moving calculator.
Moving to Buford From Atlanta
A move from Atlanta to Buford is a common type of North Metro Atlanta relocation.
Even though the cities aren’t extremely far apart geographically, the logistics can vary considerably.
For example, moving from a high-rise apartment in Midtown or Buckhead into a suburban home in Buford means you’re dealing with two completely different loading environments.
Your Atlanta move may involve:
- Elevators
- Parking decks
- Building reservations
- Long carries
- Downtown traffic
Your Buford destination may involve:
- Driveway access
- Stairs
- Garages
- HOA restrictions
- Larger furniture layouts
This is why an experienced moving crew should evaluate both the pickup and delivery locations rather than looking only at mileage.
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Moving to Buford From Out of State
Buford also attracts people relocating to Georgia from other states.
If you’re moving from another state, plan for additional details such as:
- Moving dates
- Interstate moving requirements
- Vehicle transportation
- Storage
- Utility transfers
- Address changes
- New schools
- Driver’s license and vehicle registration
- Long-distance moving costs
Long-distance moves are also much harder to improvise.
If you’re moving hundreds of miles, create your moving inventory well before moving day and decide what you’re actually taking with you.
Packing for a Move to Buford
Packing is one of the easiest ways to underestimate the amount of work involved in a move.
A good packing strategy starts several weeks before moving day.
Start with items you don’t use every day:
6–8 weeks before:
Seasonal decorations, collectibles, extra kitchenware and rarely used belongings.
4–6 weeks before:
Books, extra clothing, storage areas and guest rooms.
2–3 weeks before:
Most household belongings.
Final week:
Daily-use items that you’ll need until moving day.
Moving day:
Keep important documents, medications, valuables, chargers, toiletries and a change of clothes with you rather than putting them on the moving truck.
Decluttering Before Moving to Buford
Moving is also a good opportunity to get rid of things you don’t need.
Before packing a box, ask:
“Would I pay to have this moved?”
If the answer is no, consider selling, donating, recycling, or disposing of it before moving day.
This can be especially helpful when moving from a larger home into an apartment or townhome.
You don’t want to spend money transporting furniture that you ultimately don’t have room for.
Hiring Movers in Buford, GA
If you’re hiring professional movers, don’t choose a company based solely on the lowest hourly rate.
Ask about:
- Licensing
- Insurance
- Moving experience
- Crew size
- Truck size
- Minimum charges
- Travel fees
- Packing services
- Furniture protection
- Storage options
- Cancellation policies
- Damage claims
- Additional charges
It’s also worth checking recent reviews and looking for evidence that the company actually handles the type of move you’re planning.
For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment, a five-bedroom house, a piano, or a commercial office can require very different equipment and experience.
Local Moving Services in Buford
If you’re moving within Buford, relocating to Buford from another Georgia city, or moving out of the area, Budget Moving Services provides residential and commercial moving services along with packing, labor-only moving, storage, and other relocation services.
Examples include:
- Furniture pickup and delivery
- Facebook Marketplace purchases
- Apartment moves
- Single-item moves
- U-Haul loading and unloading
- POD/container loading
- Storage moves
- Downsizing
- Rearranging heavy furniture
These smaller moves can be useful when you don’t need a full-service relocation but still need help safely moving heavy furniture.
Budget Moving Services provides all of the above and more!
Moving Day Tips for Buford Residents
Once moving day arrives, preparation makes a huge difference.
1. Reserve elevators early
If you’re moving into an apartment or condo, confirm the elevator reservation before moving day.
2. Protect your floors
Have floor protection available if you’re moving during rainy weather or into a newly finished home.
3. Keep walkways clear
Remove boxes, toys, shoes and other obstacles before the movers arrive.
4. Measure large furniture
Measure doorways, staircases and tight turns before moving large sectionals, refrigerators, beds or other oversized furniture.
5. Keep essentials separate
Prepare an overnight bag with:
- Toiletries
- Phone chargers
- Medications
- Important documents
- Basic clothing
- Snacks
- Water
- Cleaning supplies
6. Don’t wait until moving day to pack
Last-minute packing can significantly slow down the loading process.
Moving Checklist for Buford, Georgia
Before the Move
- Choose your new home
- Confirm your move-in date
- Schedule movers
- Declutter
- Create a moving inventory
- Order packing supplies
- Start packing
- Transfer utilities
- Update your address
- Confirm HOA or apartment moving rules
- Reserve an elevator if necessary
One Week Before
- Finish most packing
- Label boxes by room
- Disassemble large furniture
- Confirm your moving appointment
- Prepare valuables and important documents
- Clean the new home if possible
Moving Day
- Keep pets and children safely out of the work area
- Protect important documents and valuables
- Check furniture before loading
- Confirm the destination address
- Walk through the old property
- Check closets, cabinets and storage areas
- Confirm everything is unloaded at the new home
Is Buford, Georgia Growing?
Yes. Buford has experienced population growth and continued development.
The Census Bureau’s latest QuickFacts estimate puts the city’s 2025 population at 18,780, compared with a 2020 census count of 17,144. (Census.gov)
The city’s long-range planning documents also identify continued residential, commercial, and infrastructure development as important issues for Buford’s future. (City of Buford, GA)
For someone considering a move, that means Buford isn’t simply a static suburb. The community continues to change, with new development occurring alongside historic areas.
Related Guides: Moving to Buford
This article is part of our Moving to Gwinnett County guide, our complete resource on moving in Gwinnett County. These related articles cover the next steps:
- Moving to Sugar Hill, Georgia
- Moving to Suwanee, Georgia
- Moving to Peachtree Corners, Georgia
- Moving to Dacula, Georgia
Need a hand? Explore our movers in Buford and local moving services or get a free moving quote. Before you hire any mover, you can verify its USDOT number with the FMCSA’s Protect Your Move resource.
Final Thoughts on Moving to Buford, GA
Moving to Buford can mean very different things depending on where you’re coming from and what type of home you’re choosing.
For some residents, the attraction is the combination of suburban neighborhoods, shopping, schools, recreation, and access to Lake Lanier.
For others, it’s the opportunity to live outside central Atlanta while remaining connected to the metro area.
The key is choosing the right part of the Buford area for your lifestyle and preparing for the specific logistics of your move.
Whether you’re moving into a new construction home, downsizing to an apartment, relocating from Atlanta, or coming to Georgia from another state, planning your move before moving day can save time, money, and a lot of unnecessary stress.
If you need help with your Buford, GA move, Budget Moving Services can help with local and long-distance moving, packing, labor-only moves, storage moves, and smaller furniture moves.
Planning a move to Buford? Get a moving quote before your preferred moving date fills up.
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