KeyBank Center, Buffalo Sabres, and Buffalo Bandits
Measuring the Economic and Community Impact of Buffalo’s Premier Sports Hub
The Challenge
The KeyBank Center—home to the Buffalo Sabres (NHL) and Buffalo Bandits (NLL)—is a major driver of sports, entertainment, and tourism in Western New York. To fully understand and communicate its economic significance, regional stakeholders needed an independent analysis measuring how the arena and its teams contribute to jobs, tax revenue, and community well-being across Buffalo and the state of New York.
How We Helped
Tripp Umbach conducted a comprehensive economic and community impact study using IMPLAN modeling to measure direct, indirect, and induced impacts generated by arena operations, professional sports, and hosted events. The 2023 analysis quantified the Center’s influence across three geographic levels: the City of Buffalo, the Buffalo metropolitan area, and the State of New York—providing stakeholders with a detailed understanding of the arena’s economic footprint.
The findings confirmed that the KeyBank Center and its teams serve as both economic and cultural anchors for the region. Together, they generate millions in tax revenue, sustain thousands of jobs, and strengthen Buffalo’s reputation as a leading sports and entertainment destination. Beyond economic outcomes, the Sabres and Bandits contribute meaningfully to the community through outreach programs, youth initiatives, and partnerships that promote education, health, and local pride.