Rochester, NY
Rochester is a mid-sized city located in western New York state, with a population of approximately 210,000 people. The city was historically known for its booming manufacturing industry, particularly in the areas of photography and optics. Today, Rochester is home to a diverse economy, including healthcare, education, and technology sectors. The city is also known for its rich arts and cultural scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, and performance venues. Rochester has faced challenges related to poverty and inequality, but the city has made efforts to address these issues through initiatives such as the Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative, which aims to reduce poverty through community-driven solutions.
STATISTICS
INDICATORS
Region
Northeast
Population (2020)
210,943
The chart below displays this city's performance across all indicators vs. averages for the 25 cities
% Non-White Population
54.9
Median Income (2020)
$37,395
Average Home Value (2022)
$191,163
Average Annual Cost of Living
$14,958
Housing, transportation and energy costs as a percent of median income
Averages
City Data
CHALLENGES
Poverty and inequality: Rochester has a high poverty rate and significant racial and economic inequality, which can lead to issues with crime and limited economic opportunities for some residents.
Limited public transportation: While the city has a bus system, public transportation is not as extensive as in some other cities, which can limit access to jobs and other resources for some residents.
Harsh winters: Rochester is known for its long, cold winters, which can make outdoor activities difficult and lead to higher heating costs for residents.
Aging infrastructure: Some parts of the city's infrastructure, including roads and bridges, are aging and in need of repair or replacement.
Population decline: Rochester has experienced a decline in population in recent years, which can make it more difficult for the city to attract new businesses and investment.
BRIGHT SPOTS
Strong cultural scene: Rochester is home to a thriving arts and culture community, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as the annual Rochester International Jazz Festival.
Access to natural beauty: Located near Lake Ontario and the Finger Lakes region, Rochester residents have easy access to beautiful outdoor spaces and recreation opportunities.
Excellent higher education: The city is home to several highly-regarded colleges and universities, including the University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology.
Strong economy: Rochester has a diverse economy that includes major employers such as Kodak, Xerox, and Wegmans, as well as a growing tech sector.
Affordable cost of living: Rochester offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities in the Northeast.