Buffalo Is the 85th-Best U.S. City for Staycations in 2026

Buffalo, N.Y., is the 85th-best U.S. city for staycations in 2026, according to a new WalletHub report that analyzed more than 180 cities using 41 key metrics. They ranged from walkability and the number of cultural attractions to average restaurant prices and summer weather. 

Millions of Americans will travel this summer, but inflation is causing 51% of people to scale back spending and choose more budget-friendly vacations, such as staycations. The good news is you don't have to go far to enjoy a lot of the benefits of a trip. 

“It's fun to visit an exotic location on vacation, but during rougher economic times, a staycation can save you a lot of money while being just as fun, relaxing and memorable,” said WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo. “Not only can you avoid the cost of overnight accommodations and minimize travel costs, but you can also discover all kinds of fun activities close to home that you might otherwise never try. Plus, you'll feel more rested if you spend less time in transit and more time sleeping in your own bed.”

In-Depth Look at Buffalo

Buffalo may appeal to some staycationers because you can enjoy quality dining at reasonable prices, and the city is easy to get around without driving. It ties for first place for the availability of affordable restaurants with at least a 4.5-star rating, and it has the 22nd best walk score and 27th best bike score. That can help you work off the calories from your staycation meals.

Buffalo does have some shortcomings as a staycation destination, though. For example, the city has the seventh-worst summer weather. In addition, it ranks 96th for the average price of a massage and 90th for beauty salon costs, so enjoying a spa day can get expensive.

Since everyone has a different idea of a fun and affordable staycation, there are a lot of different factors at play. The study analyzed 41 different metrics grouped into three main categories.

How Buffalo Ranks in Key Categories

• 51st for recreation
• 56th for food and entertainment
• 155th for rest and relaxation

This puts Buffalo in 85th place overall out of the 182 cities in WalletHub's study.

Best Cities for a Staycation

The methodology can be found on the full version of the article on WalletHub.