Lately though, I am beginning to think that Buffalo straddles a few geographical lines. Not quite Canada, Not quite Eastern United States, Not quite Mid-west, Not quite Appalachia. All of these, though are within a couple of hours drive.
“...Buffalo straddles...”
I agree with your analysis. Buffalo is where my husband’s clan originated and we love the down to earth people there when we go to reunions; there is most definitely a more mid western attitude and mid western feel in Buffalo then can be found in the snobbier east coast New England states.
I grew up in the southern tier and a logical case could be made that the mid western mindset might begin even farther east than Buffalo; the “pop” vs. “soda” terminology for soft drinks could even be the demarcation line. I think that cuts through the state around Syracuse.