Rochester is one of the biggest cities in Upstate New York, a thriving community situated along Lake Ontario’s waters at the state’s northern edge. While buyers in New York have many options, for those seeking a place that offers many appealing lifestyle benefits, Rochester is a city that can’t be ignored.
Rochester has a fascinating history as a booming center of commerce in early American history. Today, it is a scenic place with a growing economy that provides residents with plenty of opportunities. Many characteristics of Rochester have led to it being one of Upstate New York’s top real estate options; let’s look at the aspects that set this city apart.
Lifestyle and Culture
Rochester provides residents with plenty to do. Residents or visitors can learn about the foundational role Rochester played in the birth of photography at the George Eastman Museum. Also, the Strong National Museum of Play and the Rochester Museum and Science Center are family-friendly, educational museums with hands-on displays.
Downtown Rochester is an area that has seen a revitalization in recent years and is now a major hotspot for dining, shopping, entertainment, and local festivals and events. It houses performing arts venues, a vibrant culinary scene filled with international options, and plenty of shopping destinations.
Outdoor Appeal
Upstate New York is known for its natural beauty, and while Rochester is a big city, it certainly lives up to this reputation. Rochester, based along the shores of Lake Ontario, has more than 12,000 acres of parkland and over 100 miles of picturesque trails. The Genesee River’s High Falls is a well-known natural attraction in the city.
Rochester offers year-round outdoor destinations surrounding the city as well. Bristol Mountain and Swain Ski Resort are convenient ski and snowboard spots in the winter. Come summer, people enjoy boating along the Finger Lakes and Lake Ontario and golfing at world-famous clubs such as the Oak Hill Country Club, which hosts the PGA Championship.
Affordable Real Estate Options and Economic Opportunity
Housing affordability is extremely important when considering relocation, as many big cities nationwide have real estate markets that are too expensive for the average American to afford. But this isn’t the case in Rochester. Despite being a big city with a strong economy, Rochester has incredibly affordable real estate options. According to Redfin in February 2023, the median sales price of a home in Rochester was only $130,000.
Rochester’s economy has historically been based on a huge manufacturing industry, but in recent years has diversified to become more modern. Today, it houses several major companies, including Paychex and Carestream Health. The company Rochester is best known for is Kodak, a major employer founded in the city that remains headquartered there today. Rochester also houses the University of Rochester, a top research university and another significant employer. The city’s powerful economy makes it an excellent option for young professionals.
