Considering Rochester vs Pittsburgh — help me decide
OK so I'm a college student here and With a population of 122K, Rochester is a mid-size city. Poverty rate is 5.6%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 49°F, so expect cold winters. Rent is about $1,316/month for a decent place. The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
1 upvotes
14 Replies
Benjamin Hill
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
38 upvotes
Robert Phillips
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is better than expected in most areas.
35 upvotes
Julian Martin
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The pet-friendliness is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
33 upvotes
Easton G.
I'm a accountant and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. The community is pretty good and there's always something going on.
30 upvotes
Carson Alvarez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are excellent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
25 upvotes
Sophie M.
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in Westside area are underrated. Kids love it here.
22 upvotes
Weston Hughes
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 11 years. Moved from Seattle for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is tough - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park schools are better than expected. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Summers can be brutally hot. Rising rent and home prices. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
Lucy Price
Moved here last year, no regrets.
14 upvotes
Clara
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to Portland it's pretty good.
14 upvotes
Isabelle Phillips
I've been living here for 8 years and I'd say it exceeded my expectations. The nightlife is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
13 upvotes
Amy S.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 45, moved here 6 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Springfield and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Lots of new development happening
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The nightlife situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for young professionals. decent vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Pittsburgh, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
9 upvotes
Ariana Reyes
Moved here from Houston about 9 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to public transit but Hope this helps!.
8 upvotes
Ezekiel R.
Moved here from Tampa about 6 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to nightlife but Feel free to reach out with questions..
0 upvotes
Gabriella Morris
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I love the pace of life here. Compared to Pittsburgh it's pretty good.
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