When people think of Rochester, they often picture its rich history, vibrant downtown, and scenic waterfront, but the true essence of living in Rochester extends beyond the urban core. The suburbs of Rochester are diverse residential areas that offer a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still providing easy access to the city’s amenities and cultural attractions. These Rochester suburbs are spread across various parts of the metropolitan area, each with its own unique character and appeal.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Rochester suburbs—from the lakeside communities to the more rural retreats—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in Rochester or curious about the different Rochester neighborhoods, let’s discover the best parts of Rochester to call home.
Cost of living in Rochester
Before we dive into the top Rochester suburbs, let’s cover how much it costs to live in Rochester. The overall cost of living in Rochester is about 2% lower than the national average. Housing is a significant factor, with the median sale price for a home in Rochester at around $153,000, which is noticeably lower than the national average of $432,657. Rent follows a similar trend, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Rochester at $1,412, slightly lower than the national average of $1,514.
While some suburbs around Rochester offer more affordable options, others provide a more upscale lifestyle. Here, we’ll explore a range of top suburbs, offering various lifestyle and housing opportunities depending on your budget and preferences.
1. Pittsford
Known for: Historic charm, top-rated schools, and village atmosphere
Located just southeast of Rochester, Pittsford is one of the most desirable suburbs in the region. Known for its historic village, Pittsford offers a small-town atmosphere with upscale dining, boutique shopping, and scenic canal views. The Erie Canal winds through the village, providing plenty of outdoor activities like walking, biking, and kayaking. Pittsford’s tree-lined streets are home to elegant older homes as well as newer developments, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a mix of tradition and modern comfort.
Population: 30,617
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,696
Median home sale price: $490,000
Pittsford transportation scores: Walk Score 69, Bike Score 67
Apartments for rent in Pittsford, NY | Houses for rent in Pittsford, NY | Homes for sale in Pittsford, NY
2. Fairport
Known for: Canal town, community events, and scenic parks
Fairport, often called the “Crown Jewel of the Erie Canal,” is a picturesque suburb located east of Rochester. The village is famous for its historic charm and proximity to the canal, offering a lively, community-oriented atmosphere. Fairport hosts many events throughout the year, including festivals, farmers markets, and outdoor concerts, making it a great place for social gatherings. The housing market here includes a mix of older homes with character and new developments. The nearby parks, such as Perinton Park and the Crescent Trail, provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Population: 42,656
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,515
Median home sale price: $310,000
Fairport transportation scores: Walk Score 71, Bike Score 52
Apartments for rent in Fairport, NY | Houses for rent in Fairport, NY | Homes for sale in Fairport, NY
3. Brighton
Known for: Proximity to Rochester, parks, and cultural diversity
Brighton is a bustling suburb located directly south of Rochester, making it a convenient choice for commuters. The area is known for its diverse cultural offerings, including festivals, international restaurants, and a welcoming atmosphere. Brighton also boasts some of the region’s most beautiful parks, such as Buckland Park and Corbett’s Glen Nature Park, providing residents with plenty of green space. Housing options in Brighton vary from charming 20th-century homes to more contemporary builds, with many residents drawn to its central location and suburban feel.
Population: 36,609
Median home sale price: $400,000
Brighton transportation scores: Walk Score 29, Bike Score 45, Transit Score 28
Apartments for rent in Brighton, NY | Houses for rent in Brighton, NY | Homes for sale in Brighton, NY
4. Webster
Known for: Lake Ontario shoreline, parks, and suburban growth
Webster, located northeast of Rochester along the shores of Lake Ontario, is a rapidly growing suburb known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. The town offers stunning views of the lake, numerous parks, and a robust community atmosphere. Webster Park, a popular local destination, provides hiking trails, beaches, and picnic areas, while the Webster Arboretum offers a peaceful place for relaxation. The area features a range of housing options, from lakefront homes to suburban developments. Webster’s blend of natural beauty and suburban living makes it a standout suburb in the Rochester area.
Population: 44,240
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,824
Median home sale price: $329,000
Webster transportation scores: Walk Score 77, Bike Score 44
Apartments for rent in Webster, NY | Houses for rent in Webster, NY | Homes for sale in Webster, NY
5. Greece
Known for: Affordable housing, parks, and proximity to Rochester
Greece is one of the largest suburbs of Rochester, located to the northwest of the city. Known for its affordable housing and friendly environment, Greece offers residents a mix of suburban living with easy access to Rochester’s amenities. The suburb has plenty of shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational opportunities, including parks like Greece Canal Park and Braddock Bay Park. Greece’s housing market is more affordable compared to some of the other suburbs on this list, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their housing budget while still enjoying the convenience of being near Rochester.
Population: 96,856
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,180
Median home sale price: $224,000
Greece transportation scores: Walk Score 56, Bike Score 45
Apartments for rent in Greece, NY | Houses for rent in Greece, NY | Homes for sale in Greece, NY
6. Irondequoit
Known for: Proximity to Lake Ontario, Seabreeze Amusement Park, and community charm
Irondequoit is a picturesque suburb located just north of Rochester, offering residents easy access to the shores of Lake Ontario and recreational spots like Durand-Eastman Park and Seabreeze Amusement Park. Known for its close-knit community and variety of outdoor activities, Irondequoit provides a more laid-back suburban atmosphere while still being just a short drive from downtown Rochester. The housing market is diverse, with a range of historic homes, new builds, and lakefront properties, making it appealing to those looking for charm and convenience.
Population: 51,692
Median home sale price: $239,550
Irondequoit transportation scores: Walk Score 33, Bike Score 37, Transit Score 25
Apartments for rent in Irondequoit, NY | Houses for rent in Irondequoit, NY | Homes for sale in Irondequoit, NY
7. Henrietta
Known for: Affordable housing, educational institutions, and commercial centers
Located just south of Rochester, Henrietta is a growing suburb known for its affordability and access to major commercial and retail hubs. Henrietta is home to the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), which contributes to the suburb’s vibrant energy and innovation-driven environment. The suburb offers a variety of affordable housing options, from apartments to single-family homes, making it an attractive choice for students, professionals, and those looking for value. The marketplace along Jefferson Road provides plenty of shopping and dining options for residents.
Population: 44,718
Median home sale price: $285,000
Henrietta transportation scores: Walk Score 40, Bike Score 51
Apartments for rent in Henrietta, NY | Houses for rent in Henrietta, NY | Homes for sale in Henrietta, NY
8. Penfield
Known for: Strong sense of community, parks, and outdoor recreation
Penfield is located to the east of Rochester and is known for its friendly environment and community-oriented atmosphere. The town is home to several parks and trails, including Ellison Park and the Shadow Pines Nature Trail, which provide excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. Penfield’s housing market features a mix of suburban neighborhoods, from mid-century homes to newer developments, offering a variety of options for residents. With top-rated schools and a range of recreational facilities, Penfield attracts those who want a quieter, suburban lifestyle with access to Rochester’s urban amenities.
Population: 38,636
Median home sale price: $350,000
Penfield transportation scores: Walk Score 48, Bike Score 40
Apartments for rent in Penfield, NY | Houses for rent in Penfield, NY | Homes for sale in Penfield, NY
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Rochester area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of October 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.