Short answer: Rochester gives you real four-season living, short commutes, strong suburbs and housing that costs less than many Northeast metros. The trade-off is winter. If you can embrace the snow, most people who move here end up staying. Our team leader, Drew Hannan, has lived in the Rochester area for nearly three decades, and this is the guide we give friends who are thinking about moving here.
What people love about Rochester
Short commutes. Most suburbs are 15 to 25 minutes from downtown.
Water everywhere: Lake Ontario, Irondequoit Bay, the Erie Canal and the Finger Lakes within an easy drive.
Big-city amenities at a smaller scale: the University of Rochester, RIT, major hospitals and a growing food scene.
Traditions locals love, like the Lilac Festival in Highland Park, summer on the canal and, yes, Wegmans, which started here.
The honest downsides
Winters are long and gray, and some towns near the lake get extra lake-effect snow. Property taxes are a real part of your monthly budget in New York, and they vary by town and school district. We always walk buyers through the full monthly cost, not just the price, before they fall in love with a house.
Where to live: a quick map of the suburbs
Fairport and Pittsford: canal villages with sought-after schools on the east side.
Brighton: close-in, walkable pockets near Twelve Corners and the University of Rochester.
Webster, Penfield and Irondequoit: lake and bay living with a range of prices.
Henrietta and Greece: convenience, space and value.
The city: Park Avenue, the South Wedge and the Neighborhood of the Arts for historic homes and walkability.
Want the details? Each town has its own guide on our Communities page.
Tips for buying from out of town
Start with a video call so we can narrow towns to your commute, schools and budget.
Plan one focused visit and tour your top two or three towns in a single weekend.
Ask for live video tours of homes that hit the market after you head home.
Get pre-approved with a lender who knows New York closings, which usually involve attorneys for both sides.
Frequently asked questions
Is Rochester NY a good place to live?
For most people, yes. You get short commutes, strong suburbs, lots of water and outdoor space, and housing that’s more affordable than many Northeast cities. The main trade-off is winter.
How bad are Rochester winters?
Snowy and cloudy, but the region is very good at handling it. Roads get cleared fast. When you shop for a home, check the furnace, roof and driveway, and ask neighbors about snow removal.
Which Rochester suburb is best for families?
Pittsford, Fairport, Penfield, Brighton and Webster are frequent favorites for families, mostly because of their school districts. The right fit depends on your budget and commute.
Thinking about the move? Call or text The Hannan Team at 585-752-3506. We’ll give you the local’s version of every town.
