Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rochester, WA
Considering a move to Rochester, WA? This friendly town of 3,285 features a laid-back lifestyle, affordable homes with a median price of $429,000, and average rents around $1,450. Residents enjoy a moderate crime rate, easy access to nature, and commutes averaging 30 minutes. Rochester’s schools serve the community well, and the area’s mild Pacific Northwest climate—rainy winters and comfortable summers—round out its appeal for families and outdoor lovers alike.
Demographics - Rochester, WA
Demographics - Rochester, WA
Rochester, WA is a small, close-knit community of 3,285 residents with a median age of 37.2. The population is predominantly White, with about 10% of residents speaking a language other than English at home, making for a diverse yet cohesive atmosphere. The town offers a balanced gender ratio and moderate population density, ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Population:
3,285
Density:
350 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.2
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
81.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
2.0%
Others:
16.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rochester, WA?
Rochester's cost of living is slightly above the national average, with a median home value of $429,000 and typical rents around $1,450 per month. Utilities and groceries remain reasonably priced, while the absence of state income tax can benefit working residents. The area offers a comfortable balance of affordability and amenities for families and professionals alike.
Median House Value:
$429,000
Gross Rent:
$1,450
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,965
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
106.8
Grocery:
102.3
Housing:
110.1
Utilities:
98.2
Transportation:
109.5
Health Care:
104.1
Miscellaneous:
101.9
Crime
Is Rochester, WA a safe place to live?
Rochester experiences a moderate crime rate with a chance of property crime at about 1 in 71, and violent crime is relatively rare at 1 in 505. The area’s overall crime index suggests a safer environment compared to larger cities, providing peace of mind for families and individuals. Community safety is supported by active local engagement and responsive law enforcement.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
198
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,410
Crime Index:
1,608
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 505
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 71
Weather
What is the weather like in Rochester, WA year-round?
Residents of Rochester enjoy a classic Pacific Northwest climate, featuring mild, wet winters with average highs in the mid-40s and comfortable summers peaking near 78°F. The region receives about 51 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine roughly 43% of the year. This blend of weather supports lush landscapes and an abundance of outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
45°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
51.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
43%
Neighbors
Rochester’s households benefit from a median income of $77,100 and a relatively low poverty rate of 9.7%. Most residents commute about 30 minutes to work, with very few relying on public transportation, reflecting the area's rural character. The community is well-educated, with over 90% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$40,800
Household Income:
$77,100
Family Income:
$84,600
Per Capita Income:
$30,200
Income Male:
$47,000
Income Female:
$38,500
Poverty Rate:
9.7%
Non English Speakers:
10.5%
Rent:
$1,450
Unemployment Rate:
5.3%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
30.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.1%
Bachelors or More:
17.8%
Education
How are the schools in Rochester, WA?
Rochester supports families with reputable public schools, including Rochester High and Middle Schools, and private education options nearby. Students benefit from manageable class sizes and local access to community colleges within a 20-mile radius, fostering strong educational outcomes. The town’s commitment to learning makes it a welcoming choice for families of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Rochester High School
Street:
19800 Carper Rd SW
Phone:
360-273-5534
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.7
Name:
Rochester Middle School
Street:
9937 Hwy 12 SW
Phone:
360-273-5958
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Private Schools
Name:
Tenino Christian School
Street:
301 Lincoln Ave E, Tenino
Phone:
360-264-8071
Students:
90
Colleges
Name:
Centralia College
City:
Centralia
State:
WA
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
3,900
Name:
South Puget Sound Community College
City:
Olympia
State:
WA
Distance:
20 miles
Students:
4,800
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Rochester is robust, with major hospitals like Providence Centralia and Providence St. Peter nearby, both offering comprehensive emergency services. The community enjoys a high health insurance coverage rate of 93.7% and above-average physician availability. Residents can expect quality medical care within a short drive of town.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Providence Centralia Hospital
Address:
914 S Scheuber Rd, Centralia, WA 98531
Phone:
(360) 736-2803
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Providence St. Peter Hospital
Address:
413 Lilly Rd NE, Olympia, WA 98506
Phone:
(360) 491-9480
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.7%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rochester, WA?
The Rochester housing market is characterized by a median home price of $429,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of nearly 77%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,450 and a low vacancy rate, indicating steady demand. Home values have seen healthy appreciation, making it an appealing choice for buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$429,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,450
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Rochester handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Washington State Department of Licensing in nearby Olympia. The office provides comprehensive services, from driver’s licenses to vehicle registration, and can be conveniently accessed in person or online. This ensures efficient support for all transportation-related requirements.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
1125 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA 98501
Phone:
360-902-3900
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.