Buffalo: A Top City for Hockey Fans According to WalletHub Study
Buffalo, despite the Buffalo Sabres' playoff struggles, has been recognized as one of the top cities for hockey fans in a recent study by WalletHub. The study evaluated over 75 U.S. cities based on various metrics related to hockey, including ticket prices, stadium capacity, and team performance. Hockey's popularity is on the rise in America, with cities like Buffalo offering great opportunities to watch NHL and NCAA hockey games in person.
Buffalo's downtown area is a vibrant hub for hockey enthusiasts, with the KeyBank Center, LECOM Harborcenter, and outdoor skating options during the winter months. The city is home to multiple hockey teams and rinks, including the Buffalo Sabres and the men's Canisius University Golden Griffins team. Other college-level teams in the Buffalo area include the Buffalo State Bengals and University at Buffalo Ice Bulls.
According to the study, Buffalo boasts the second-lowest average ticket price for NHL games, ranks fourth for the minimum season ticket price for NCAA games, and has the third-highest NHL stadium capacity. WalletHub's top 10 cities for hockey fans all have at least one NHL team, showcasing the strong presence of professional hockey across the country.
WalletHub's rankings were based on 21 key metrics divided into NHL and Division 1 Men's NCAA hockey categories. Factors considered in the NHL category included average ticket prices, stadium capacity, and team performance, while the NCAA category focused on minimum season ticket prices and the number of college hockey teams in each city. Data for the study was collected as of April 30, 2025, from sources like ESPN, U.S. College Hockey Online, and team websites.
In conclusion, Buffalo's recognition as a top city for hockey fans highlights the city's passion for the sport and the diverse opportunities it offers to watch high-quality hockey games. Whether you're a fan of the NHL or college hockey, Buffalo provides a vibrant and exciting environment for hockey enthusiasts to enjoy the game.