Buffalo, NY Postal Codes: Zip Codes & Information

# Buffalo, NY Postal Codes: A Comprehensive Guide

Buffalo, New York, a city rich in history and culture, is served by a diverse set of postal codes. Finding the correct postal code is crucial for ensuring your mail and packages reach their destination promptly and accurately. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Buffalo's postal codes, helping you navigate the city's various neighborhoods and districts.

## Understanding Buffalo's Postal Code System

The primary postal code for Buffalo, NY is **14201**. However, due to the city's size and population density, numerous other postal codes are in use, each corresponding to specific areas, streets, or even buildings. These codes fall within the 142xx range and are essential for efficient mail delivery by the United States Postal Service (USPS).

## Key Buffalo, NY Postal Codes

Here's a list of some key postal codes in Buffalo, NY, along with the neighborhoods or areas they serve:

*   **14201:** Downtown Buffalo
*   **14202:** Buffalo General Medical Center
*   **14203:** Allentown
*   **14204:** West Side
*   **14206:** University District
*   **14207:** Elmwood Village
*   **14208:** North Buffalo
*   **14209:** Kensington-Bailey
*   **14210:** South Buffalo
*   **14211:** Lovejoy
*   **14212:** East Side
*   **14213:** Willert Park
*   **14214:** Riverside
*   **14215:** Black Rock
*   **14216:** South Park
*   **14217:** Kaisertown
*   **14218:** Lackawanna
*   **14219:** Cheektowaga
*   **14220:** Cheektowaga
*   **14221:** Amherst
*   **14222:** Amherst
*   **14223:** Tonawanda
*   **14224:** West Seneca
*   **14225:** Cleveland Hill
*   **14226:** Kenmore
*   **14227:** Cheektowaga
*   **14228:** Orchard Park
*   **14231:** Buffalo
*   **14240:** Buffalo
*   **14263:** Buffalo

## How to Find a Specific Postal Code in Buffalo

Several resources can help you find the exact postal code for a specific address in Buffalo, NY:

1.  **USPS Website:** The official USPS website ([https://www.usps.com/](https://www.usps.com/)) offers a "Look Up a ZIP Code" tool. Simply enter the address, and the tool will provide the corresponding postal code.
2.  **Online Postal Code Directories:** Websites like Zip-Codes.com and others maintain comprehensive databases of postal codes across the United States. You can search by address or street name to find the correct code.
3.  **Address Verification Tools:** Many online services offer address verification tools that not only provide the postal code but also standardize and validate addresses for accuracy.
4.  **Google Maps:** Google Maps can also display postal code boundaries. Typing "postal codes Buffalo NY" into the search bar will often highlight the different postal code areas on the map.

## Why Knowing the Correct Postal Code Matters

Using the correct postal code is vital for several reasons:

*   **Efficient Mail Delivery:** The USPS relies on postal codes to sort and deliver mail quickly and accurately. An incorrect postal code can lead to delays or misdelivery.
*   **Package Shipping:** Shipping companies like UPS and FedEx also use postal codes for efficient routing and delivery of packages.
*   **Online Shopping:** Many online retailers require a postal code for shipping and billing purposes. Providing the correct code ensures your orders are processed and delivered correctly.
*   **Geographic Targeting:** Businesses and organizations use postal codes for targeted marketing campaigns, demographic analysis, and service area determination.
*   **Emergency Services:** In emergencies, providing the correct postal code can help dispatchers quickly locate your address.

## Buffalo Postal Code Map

[Insert a map of Buffalo with postal code boundaries here. You can find such maps by searching "Buffalo NY postal code map" on Google Images. A good option would be a map from the City of Buffalo's official website or a reputable source like a local news outlet.]

The map visually represents the different postal code areas within Buffalo, making it easier to understand the geographic distribution of the codes.

## Common Postal Code Errors and How to Avoid Them

Several common errors can lead to incorrect postal codes. Here's how to avoid them:

*   **Misreading Handwritten Addresses:** Double-check handwritten addresses for clarity, especially numbers that can be easily confused (e.g., 0 and 6, 1 and 7).
*   **Using Old Addresses:** If you've moved recently, ensure you're using your current postal code.
*   **Forgetting the Plus-Four Code:** The USPS uses an extended postal code format (postal code + four digits) for more precise delivery. If you know the +4 code, use it.
*   **Copying from Unreliable Sources:** Always verify postal codes using official sources like the USPS website.
*   **Assuming a Single Code for a Building:** Large buildings or complexes may have multiple postal codes. Check with the building management or use the USPS lookup tool.

## Conclusion

Navigating Buffalo's postal codes is essential for efficient mail delivery, accurate shipping, and various other purposes. By understanding the city's postal code system and utilizing the resources mentioned in this guide, you can ensure your mail and packages reach their intended destination without delay.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Buffalo, NY Postal Codes

**Q1: What is the main postal code for Buffalo, NY?**

The primary postal code for Buffalo, NY is 14201. However, numerous other postal codes are used throughout the city.

**Q2: How can I find the postal code for a specific address in Buffalo?**

You can use the USPS website's "Look Up a ZIP Code" tool, online postal code directories, address verification tools, or Google Maps.

**Q3: Why is it important to use the correct postal code?**

The correct postal code ensures efficient mail delivery, accurate package shipping, and proper geographic targeting for businesses and organizations.

**Q4: What is the +4 code, and should I use it?**

The +4 code is an extension to the basic postal code that provides more precise delivery information. If you know the +4 code for an address, using it can improve delivery accuracy.

**Q5: Are postal codes the same as area codes?**

No, postal codes and area codes are different. Postal codes are used for mail delivery, while area codes are used for telephone numbers.

**Q6: Where can I find a map of Buffalo postal codes?**

You can find maps of Buffalo postal codes by searching online or consulting resources like the City of Buffalo's official website.

**Q7: What should I do if I'm not sure about the postal code for an address?**

Use the USPS website's "Look Up a ZIP Code" tool or consult an online postal code directory to verify the correct code.