I was at the ESD for three years. It's an interesting place. Let me know what kind of info you're looking for and I'll be happy to give you my perspective.
Probably some of the best areas to live in are Orchard Park and Hamburg. Those are both just south of the base. If you what to go north, Amherst isn't bad. Grand Island is pretty good too. That's where I lived but there isn't much in the way of rentals there. I'd personally stay away from the Niagara Falls area. Sounds attractive but the reality is Niagara Falls on the US side is a pretty cruddy area.
The base is in the old industrial section of South Buffalo surrounded by abandoned steel and grain factories. Not a "great" area but I have yet to go to a CG base that's in a good neighborhood. There are a lot of toll roads in and around the city so it would behoove you to get an EZPass unless you like to carry a lot of change. Lastly, don't underestimate the amount of snow you'll get. Be prepared by getting lots of warm clothes and the appropriate snow gear. A large and powerful snowblower WILL come in handy.
Let me know if there's anything else you want to hear about!
I agree with Orchard Park and Hamburg. Might look at West Seneca and Cheektowaga. I lived in the latter. Remember one thing - the commute. During the winter with snow up to your a** you'll want to get home fast and safely. The snow removal guys know what to do, but when you get that much snow, it's a struggle.
