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Michael best-worst

What Rochester does better than anywhere else

So, Been living here since 2024. You can expect to pay around $744 for rent here. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
5 upvotes

10 Replies

Jonathan Lopez
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Old Town area are solid. Kids love it here.
33 upvotes
Violet Walker
not my experience at all
32 upvotes
Jose Harris
Public transit is challenging here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it was the best decision I ever made.
31 upvotes
Jose M.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
30 upvotes
Clara Edwards
I've lived in Fairview for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.

it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.

A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Diverse dining options
- The safety scene is better than expected

The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Can feel isolated

Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. No regrets on my end..
27 upvotes
Andrew
Hot take but I'm still on the fence after all this time. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
24 upvotes
stlmama2024
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in North for 11 years. Moved from Raleigh for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.

**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is improving - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.

**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are excellent. 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. Dating scene is rough. Bugs and humidity in summer. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
Connor P.
wish I knew this sooner
12 upvotes
Zoe A.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.

I've been here 8 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.

That said, the traffic is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is hit or miss.

Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the Eastside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.

Good luck with whatever you decide..
10 upvotes
Xavier Ross
hmm interesting perspective
6 upvotes
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