Rochester is a city in Monroe County, New York, south of Lake Ontario. The Rochester metropolitan area is the second largest economy in New York State, behind the New York City metropolitan area. Known as The World's Image Centre,it was also once known as The Flour City, and more recently as The Flower City. It is the county seat for Monroe County.
Once you arrive in Rochester, you'll be delighted at your discoveries. Its people and places live up to their top rankings for friendliness, family fun and memorable getaways. Rochester is a mid-size city that maintains a small-town feeling, and it's easy to get around by car or public transportation. (Note: all city buses have bike racks).
Famous sites blend with charming neighborhoods and historic canal towns to create a mosaic of attractions to visit. Our museums are first rate-displaying everything from the Berenstain Bears to Ansel Adams-and festivals of all kinds are plentiful. Explore Rochester at the High Falls, a 96-ft. urban waterfall, or via downtown self-guided tours. Cruise, bike or hike, on the original Erie Canal path while visiting great restaurants, shops and quaint villages along the way.
From standing in the parlor where Susan B. Anthony was arrested for voting, to listening to great jazz on the streets-Rochester is filled with museums, attractions, music, theater, festivals, sports, special events and more. There is always something to see & do in entertaining Rochester.
Suburban malls include the upscale shops at Eastview Mall in Victor, Marketplace Mall in Henrietta, Pittsford Plaza in Pittsford, and the immense Mall at Greece Ridge in Greece. If you can't resist a bargain, you've come to the right place! There's a thriving collection of discount stores and outlet centers, too, including approximately 100 stores at Waterloo Premium Outlets, just to the east of Rochester.
You'll find boutiques and specialty shops in scenic locales along the Erie Canal and in charming historic settings, including the Main Streets of the small towns and villages throughout the area. Or, head to "The Avenues" - Park, Monroe and University - for each street's distinctive combination of shops, cafés, service businesses, restaurants, pocket parks, artwork, and intriguing residences.
Excellent gift shops in local museums and attractions offer one-of-a-kind treasures and wonderful souvenirs. If antiques are your passion, be sure to pick up the guide to more than 65 antique shops within 50 miles of Rochester, available from VisitRochester. Rochester's Public Market is over 100 years old and provides bargains every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Vendors offer their fresh foods, ethnic delicacies and specialty items. Sunday special events throughout the year include "Greatest Garage Sales Ever," "Holidays at the Market" and "Homegrown at the Market."
Housing Cost
Estimated median house or condo value in 2008: $75,700
Mean prices in 2008: All housing units: $95,882; Detached houses: $87,413; Townhouses or other attached units: $190,135; In 2-unit structures: $108,075; In 3-to-4-unit structures: $194,236; In 5-or-more-unit structures: $270,945
Demographics
Population in July 2008: 206,886. Rochester covers 35.8 square miles. Area code: 585
Weather
Rochester, NY climate is mild during summer when temperatures tend to be in the 60's and very cold during winter when temperatures tend to be in the 20's.
The warmest month of the year is July with an average maximum temperature of 81.40 degrees Fahrenheit, while the coldest month of the year is January with an average minimum temperature of 16.60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Temperature variations between night and day tend to be moderate during summer with a difference that can reach 21 degrees Fahrenheit, and fairly limited during winter with an average difference of 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
The annual average precipitation at Rochester is 33.98 Inches. Rainfall in is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. The wettest month of the year is August with an average rainfall of 3.54 Inches.
Information provided by idcide.com and city data.com
