Urban Planner Salary in Buffalo, New York
The median urban planner salary in Buffalo, NY is $73,177 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 24.6% below the New York state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Buffalo: What to Expect (2026)
Buffalo offers a median urban planner salary of $73,177, which is $23,862 below the New York state average of $97,039. Compared to the national median of $79,540, Buffalo pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Buffalo's cost of living is 92% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for urban planners in Buffalo spans from $46,000 at the 10th percentile to $112,240 at the 90th percentile — a $66,240 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $47,840, while senior urban planners with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $108,560. With a population of 278,349, Buffalo is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Urban Planner Salary in Buffalo by Experience
In Buffalo, an entry-level urban planner earns around $47,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $108,560 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Buffalo, NY
| Percentile | Buffalo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $46,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,960 |
| Median (50th) | $73,177 |
| 75th Percentile | $92,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $112,240 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Buffalo
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Buffalo and the surrounding New York area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Buffalo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Urban Planner Jobs in Buffalo
Browse open urban planner positions in Buffalo, NY: