Business

Town of Amherst Business Environment

The Town of Amherst represents one of Western New York’s most dynamic business communities, strategically positioned as a suburban hub that benefits from its proximity to Buffalo while maintaining its own distinct economic identity with employment exceeding 100,000. The town has cultivated a diverse business ecosystem that emphasizes knowledge-based industries, professional services, and innovation-driven enterprises. Daytime population swells to 180,000+ as professionals commute into the Town to work, learn or recreate.

How We’re Making an Impact

Diverse Industries Driving Economic Growth

Amherst delivers the ideal conditions for businesses, from a strong workforce to excellent connectivity and resources. Known for its forward-thinking community and pro-business environment, it creates opportunities across multiple sectors. This makes Amherst a powerful location where diverse industries from healthcare and finance to numerous professional services are accelerating growth and strengthening the regional economy.

Key Industries

Finance & Insurance | Healthcare & Medical Spine | Professional Services

World-Class Education & Workforce Development

<del>World-Class</del> Education & Workforce Development

World-Class Education & Workforce Development

Amherst is powered by a highly educated workforce, thanks to partnerships with institutions like SUNY Buffalo, Daemen University, and Erie Community College. Tailored workforce training programs ensure businesses have access to top-tier talent across industries.

Education overview

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The Right Location for Business Success

Amherst offers a wide range of commercial and industrial real estate opportunities, from high-tech campuses and flex space to distribution centers and build‑to‑suit parcels. Key advantages include easy access to major markets like New York City, Toronto, Pittsburgh, and Chicago, along with redevelopment incentives such as sales tax exemptions, mortgage recording tax waivers, and sliding‑scale property tax abatements in designated Enhancement Zones.

Real Estate

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Key Statistics

Educated Workforce

56% of the Amherst population has a Bachelor’s degree or more.

Livable Wages

Median Household Income: $93,119

Healthcare Destination

Highest concentration of healthcare occupations in the Buffalo-Niagara region.

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Strengths + Strategic Location

Why Businesses Thrive in Amherst

Amherst’s success is rooted in its strategic advantages:

Business-Friendly Environment

A business-friendly community that combines a skilled workforce, modern infrastructure, and easy access to regional and national markets. The town offers strong support for innovation and entrepreneurship, backed by educational institutions and local partnerships. This collaborative environment makes Amherst an ideal place for businesses to launch, grow, and thrive.

Business overview

Strategic Location

Amherst’s central location provides unparalleled access to major economic hubs across the U.S. and Canada.

Proximity to Major Markets: Reach millions of customers easily, with connections via major trade routes to New York, Toronto, Pittsburgh, and Chicago.

Business overview

Incentives

Amherst fosters business growth through the Amherst IDA, which has driven billions in investment, thousands of jobs, and significant tax revenue. Businesses can access tax incentives—like sales tax exemptions, mortgage recording tax reductions, and property tax abatements—along with loans, workforce training funds, and grants through local partners.

Business overview