If you’re relocating to the Buffalo area or simply looking for a new place to call home, one question I hear all the time is:
“Should I move to Williamsville or Clarence?”
The truth is, neither community is better than the other. They simply offer different lifestyles.
I’ve helped buyers purchase homes in both areas, and the right choice almost always comes down to what matters most to you.
Here are three of the biggest differences I think every buyer should know before making a decision.
1. Williamsville Offers More Walkability
If being able to leave your car at home sounds appealing, Williamsville has the advantage.
The Village of Williamsville has a true neighborhood feel where you can walk to local restaurants, coffee shops, ice cream, salons, boutiques, parks, and community events. Many WNYers love being able to spend an evening strolling through the village without needing to drive from place to place.
That walkability is something that’s difficult to find in many Buffalo suburbs. East Aurora has a wonderful Main St and walkable area, but now we are going into Northtowns vs Southtowns which is a completely different conversation!
Clarence, on the other hand, has its own charm, but it’s a different experience.
The historic Four Corners area has a handful of local businesses and restaurants, but Clarence was primarily a farming community for many years. Because of that history, it developed very differently than Williamsville, and most daily errands still require driving.
Amherst (which entails of East, West Amherst, the village, Getzville, all of it) is the same square miles as Clarence, but Amherst has 4x the population! Such a different feel.
If walkability is high on your wish list, Williamsville is usually the better fit.
2. Property Taxes Can Be Lower in Clarence
Another major difference buyers often notice is property taxes.
Homes in Clarence generally have lower taxes than comparable homes in Williamsville, especially if you’re considering a property inside the Village of Williamsville.
Living in the village comes with an additional village tax, which is something many first-time buyers don’t realize until they’re comparing monthly housing costs.
That doesn’t necessarily make one community better than the other. It simply means it’s important to understand the full cost of ownership before making a decision.
When I’m helping buyers compare homes, we always look beyond the purchase price and factor in taxes, monthly payments, and long-term affordability.
3. Clarence Feels More Spacious
One of the biggest lifestyle differences between these communities is how they feel day to day.
Williamsville is more developed, more populated, and has a higher density of homes, businesses, and amenities. Everything feels a little closer together, which many people love because it creates convenience and accessibility. For us, the homes were too close. I grew up on a farm in Rochester and I needed more space. So we were drawn to Clarence and were able eto get 6 acres! That is unheard of in East Amherst.
Clarence offers a much different atmosphere.
Although it’s grown tremendously over the last few decades and continues to see new construction, it still maintains a more rural character. You’ll often find larger lots, more open space, and neighborhoods that feel quieter and less crowded.
If you’re dreaming of more land, bigger yards, and a little extra breathing room, Clarence may be exactly what you’re looking for.
So… Which One Should You Choose?
It really comes down to the lifestyle you want.
You may love Williamsville if you want:
- Walkable restaurants and shops
- A lively village atmosphere
- Easy access to everyday conveniences
- A more connected neighborhood feel
You may prefer Clarence if you want:
- Larger lots and more space
- Lower property taxes in many areas
- A quieter, more rural setting
- New construction and growing neighborhoods
Neither community is the “right” answer for everyone.
The best choice depends on your budget, your daily routine, and what you want life to look like after you move.
I will def say that I do wish sometimes that I lived in the village of Williamsville so I could walk to my favorite salon on Main st, take my daughter for a walk and people watch or get dinner at Britesmith without having to get in the car. But I also love waking up and seeing no one living behind me, being able to ride 4 wheelers and see 2 dozen deer in my backyard.
Thinking About Moving to Buffalo?
Choosing between Williamsville and Clarence is about more than comparing home prices. It’s about finding the community that fits the way you want to live.
If you’re still trying to decide which area makes the most sense for you, I’d be happy to help you compare neighborhoods, schools, taxes, home styles, and what your budget can realistically buy in each community.
Feel free to reach out anytime or send me a message. I’m always happy to answer your questions and help you find the neighborhood that feels like home.
Michelle Petrie
📞 716-293-2817
📧 michelle@thepetrieteam.com
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