Snyder is the kind of place where history is not just something you read about. It is woven into the streets, the buildings, and the community itself. As one of Amherst's earliest settled areas, this hamlet has been quietly shaping Buffalo's story for over 200 years. With top-rated schools, a Walk Score of 75, and a real estate market that reflects its desirability, Snyder offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience.
Here is what makes Snyder one of Amherst's most unique and desirable communities.
Key Takeaways
- Snyder was established in 1837 and named for Michael Snyder, the hamlet's first postmaster.
- The historic Bank of Snyder building at 4467 Main Street, constructed in 1929, is a fine example of Georgian Revival architecture and continues to serve the community today.
- Snyder is served by the A-rated Amherst Central School District, with Amherst Central High School located right in the hamlet.
- The area has a Walk Score of 75, making it "Very Walkable" for most daily errands.
- The average listing price in Snyder is around $296,390, with homes ranging from the mid-$300,000s to over $600,000.
- The Snyder-CleveHill Garden Walk takes place annually in July, showcasing the community's pride and beautiful gardens.
The Snyder Story: From Farmland to Hamlet
Snyder's roots go back to 1804, when Timothy Hopkins became the first settler, establishing a large farm near what is now Main Street and Washington Highway. The hamlet's real transformation began in 1823 when Abraham Snyder arrived, drawn by the opportunities created by the Erie Canal.
When Abraham mysteriously disappeared in 1832, his son Michael stepped up and became what one historian called a "one-man powerhouse of industry and generosity". The hamlet was officially established in 1837 and named for Michael Snyder, who also served as its first postmaster and operated a store at the corner of Harlem Road and Main Street.
The community grew along the Main Street transportation route between Buffalo and points east, blossoming due to retail activity in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The introduction of an electric trolley in 1892 ushered in a new era, shaping Snyder's distinctive identity.
Today, Snyder's rich history is preserved in structures like the former Bank of Snyder at 4467 Main Street. Constructed in 1929, this Georgian Revival building remains a testament to the community's pride and self-reliance, with 150 of the 160 original stockholders being Snyder residents.
Real Estate: Desirable and Competitive
Snyder's real estate market reflects its desirability. With an average listing price of around $296,390 and a price per square foot of $202, it is positioned as a premium Amherst neighborhood. There are currently about 32 active listings.
Recent listings show the range of what is available. A beautifully updated 3-bedroom Colonial on Berryman Drive was listed at $369,900. A 3-bedroom, 2-bath brick Tudor on Brantwood Road is currently listed at $429,900. A stunning 5-bedroom Colonial on Amherstdale Road is listed at $599,900. On the higher end, an active listing on Sargent Drive is listed at $629,000.
The Snyder community has above-average affluence and education compared to the Buffalo region, which is reflected in both the housing stock and the stability of the market.
Schools: A-Rated Excellence
Snyder is served by the Amherst Central School District, which earns A-minus ratings from Niche. Students typically attend Smallwood Drive School for elementary, Amherst Middle School, and Amherst Central High School.
Amherst Central High School is a public high school located right in Snyder at 4301 Main Street. Established in 1930, it serves over 800 students and has a strong academic tradition dating back nearly a century. For families seeking private education, The Park School, a coeducational college preparatory school founded in 1912, is also located in Snyder, serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12.
Walkability: Very Walkable
Snyder earns a Walk Score of 75 out of 100, which means it is "Very Walkable," and most errands can be accomplished on foot. The area is served by NFTA bus lines including the 47 and 48.
Nearby parks include the Harlem Road Community Center, Fetto Park, and Amherst State Park, which offers 80 acres of wooded areas, meadows, and old orchards, ideal for bird watching, walking, jogging, and fishing in Ellicott Creek. Smith Road Paw Park, an official off-leash dog park, is also conveniently located near Snyder.
Dining and Local Businesses
Snyder's Main Street is home to a surprising number of excellent dining options. Grezi on Main at 4543 Main Street is an upscale bistro serving appetizers like foie-gras and meatballs on truffled polenta. Adam's Rib at 4517 Main Street features steaks, seafood, and more. Siena at 4526 Main Street offers Italian cuisine with specialties including osso buco, wood oven pizza, pasta, fresh fish, and prime steaks. Rin Thai Bistro at 4446 Main Street serves Thai cuisine. Snyder Bar and Grill at 2067 Kensington Avenue is a neighborhood bar and grill known for handmade cheeseburgers, chicken wings, and a great atmosphere for watching sports. SPoT Coffee is a stylish neighborhood coffee shop with great atmosphere and food.
Annual Events
The Snyder-CleveHill Garden Walk takes place annually in July, with maps available at Trillium's Florist on Kensington Avenue. It is a wonderful example of the community pride that defines this historic hamlet.
FAQ
Q: Where exactly is Snyder located?
A: Snyder is a hamlet within the town of Amherst in Erie County, New York, part of the Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area. It is centered around the intersection of Main Street and Harlem Road.
Q: How did Snyder get its name?
A: Snyder was originally called "Snyderville" and was named for Michael Snyder, the hamlet's first postmaster, who also operated a store at the corner of Main Street and Harlem Road. The hamlet was established in 1837.
Q: Is Snyder a good place to raise a family?
A: Yes. Snyder is served by the highly-rated Amherst Central School District, has a Walk Score of 75, and offers a safe, historic community with above-average affluence and education.
Q: How much does it cost to buy a home in Snyder?
A: The average listing price in Snyder is around $296,390, with homes ranging from the mid-$300,000s to over $600,000 depending on size and condition. The price per square foot averages around $202.
Q: Is Snyder walkable?
A: Yes. Snyder has a Walk Score of 75 out of 100, which is considered "Very Walkable," meaning most errands can be accomplished on foot. The area is also served by NFTA bus lines.
Q: What are the best restaurants in Snyder?
A: Snyder has a surprising number of excellent dining options along Main Street, including Grezi on Main, Adam's Rib, Siena, Rin Thai Bistro, and the neighborhood favorite Snyder Bar and Grill.
Q: What is the historic Bank of Snyder building?
A: Located at 4467 Main Street, the Bank of Snyder was constructed in 1929 as a symbol of local pride, with 150 of 160 stockholders being Snyder residents. It is a fine example of Georgian Revival architecture and now operates as a Key Bank branch.
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