With a population of slightly more than 250,000, Buffalo is New York State’s second-largest city. For much of the 20th century, it was an industrial powerhouse, with its economy driven by the steel, manufacturing, and automotive industries. However, those industries and the employment opportunities they offered are largely a relic of the past. Currently, a significant portion of the local economy benefits from Buffalo’s proximity to Niagara Falls and the Great Lakes. The region experiences notably harsh winters, yet its natural beauty offers a wonderful retreat for individuals seeking a change from urban life.