Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rochester, NY
Considering a move to Rochester, NY? With a population of 210,606, Rochester offers affordable living—median home prices are just $114,400 and average 2-bedroom rents around $1,070. The city features several major hospitals, short average commutes of 19.7 minutes, and a vibrant higher education scene with the University of Rochester and RIT. While the cost of living is low, prospective residents should be aware of higher crime rates and a significant poverty rate, but also enjoy four distinct seasons with cool summers and snowy winters. Explore Rochester for its affordable housing, arts, and educational opportunities.
Demographics - Rochester, NY
Demographics - Rochester, NY
Rochester is home to about 210,600 residents, with a youthful median age of 32.3 and a nearly even gender balance. The city is distinctly diverse, featuring almost equal proportions of Black and White populations, and over 15% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its urban density and multicultural makeup create a vibrant community atmosphere.
Population:
210,606
Density:
5,880 per sq mi
Median Age:
32.3
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
15.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
38.6%
Black:
39.2%
Asian:
3.7%
Others:
18.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rochester, NY?
Rochester offers a notably low cost of living, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values at just $114,400. Residents benefit from affordable rents and reasonable utility costs, making it an attractive choice for those seeking budget-friendly urban living. State taxes are moderate, and everyday expenses like groceries and health care remain accessible.
Median House Value:
$114,400
Gross Rent:
$1,070
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,250
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$510
State Taxes:
Low:
4.0%
|
High:
8.82%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.2
Grocery:
97.6
Housing:
52.7
Utilities:
102.3
Transportation:
89.2
Health Care:
98.4
Miscellaneous:
91.5
Crime
Is Rochester, NY a safe place to live?
Rochester experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with about 793 violent crimes and 3,290 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. This equates to a 1 in 126 chance of experiencing a violent crime, so new residents should consider safety when choosing neighborhoods. Despite these challenges, many areas remain welcoming and active.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
793
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,290
Crime Index:
4,083
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 126
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 30
Weather
What is the weather like in Rochester, NY year-round?
The city experiences four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and pleasantly mild summers, where average highs reach 82°F. Rochester receives about 33 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year. Residents can expect crisp autumns and refreshing springs, making for a classic Northeastern climate.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
47%
Neighbors
Rochester's neighborhoods are diverse, with a median household income around $40,000 and a notable poverty rate of 30%. Most residents have a high school diploma, and about a quarter hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Commutes are short, averaging under 20 minutes, and public transportation is used by over 10% of locals.
Median Income:
$24,947
Household Income:
$40,083
Family Income:
$49,012
Per Capita Income:
$23,400
Income Male:
$28,200
Income Female:
$24,100
Poverty Rate:
30.4%
Non English Speakers:
15.6%
Rent:
$1,070
Unemployment Rate:
7.1%
Public Transport Usage:
10.2%
Commute Time:
19.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
83.3%
Bachelors or More:
23.1%
Education
How are the schools in Rochester, NY?
Rochester offers a wide spectrum of educational options, from public schools like School of the Arts to prestigious private and magnet programs. Higher education is a local hallmark, with institutions such as the University of Rochester and RIT attracting thousands of students. The city's educational landscape supports both families and lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
School of the Arts
Street:
45 Prince St
Phone:
585-242-7682
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.8
Name:
Wilson Magnet High School
Street:
501 Genesee St
Phone:
585-328-3440
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Private Schools
Name:
McQuaid Jesuit High School
Street:
1800 S. Clinton Ave
Phone:
585-473-1130
Students:
850
Colleges
Name:
University of Rochester
City:
Rochester
State:
NY
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
12,000
Name:
Rochester Institute of Technology
City:
Rochester
State:
NY
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
19,000
Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare is a strong point, with major hospitals like Strong Memorial and Rochester General offering comprehensive services, including emergency care. The city boasts a high rate of insurance coverage and a robust physician-to-population ratio. Residents benefit from reliable medical facilities and specialists nearby.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Strong Memorial Hospital
Address:
601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642
Phone:
(585) 275-2100
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Rochester General Hospital
Address:
1425 Portland Ave, Rochester, NY 14621
Phone:
(585) 922-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.1%
Health Care Index:
72.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rochester, NY?
Rochester’s housing market is affordable, with median home prices at $114,400 and average rents for a two-bedroom at $1,070. The city has a higher proportion of renters and a moderate vacancy rate, making it easier to find available housing. Home values have appreciated modestly in recent years, offering potential for investment.
Median Home Price:
$114,400
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,070
Owner Occupied Rate:
38.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
11.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.1%
DMV Information
Rochester residents are served by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles office downtown, which provides a full range of licensing and registration services. The DMV is conveniently located and accessible for most city dwellers. Additional information and services can be accessed online through the state DMV website.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
200 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14604
Phone:
(518) 486-9786
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.