Living in Rochester
Living in Rochester
As the fourth largest city in New York, Rochester is big enough to offer an array of cultural, recreational, and leisure activities, yet small enough to live affordably and navigate easily. With a cost of living significantly below the national average and proximity to the beautiful Finger Lakes region, many trainees choose to stay in Rochester.
Our students and trainees are key contributors to our learning community, guiding our work to make everyone feel welcome and supported in an environment enriched by multiple perspectives. You are welcome here. Learn more about student belonging and resources at rochester.edu/oee.
By the Numbers
Where We're Located
Rochester is only a few hours away from other great cities.
Meet Rochester
Why do so many people love Rochester? We're home to a vibrant arts and cultural scene, gorgeous nature, excellent cuisine, festivals, and so much more. There's truly something for everyone in the Rochester metropolitan area and the surrounding Finger Lakes region.
This map is just a small selection of some of the many attractions and activities that make Rochester such an amazing place to live, work, and learn.
Select a pin on the map below to learn more about the location. To view a complete list of locations, click on the 
icon. For a larger view of the map, click the 
icon.
Art and Culture
Rochester's long list of museums, theaters, galleries, and special events provides year-round cultural experiences. Here are a few favorites:
Festivals
Theatre & Music
Food & Drink
Rochester’s dining scene has something for everyone, from Italian fare at Grappa to house-brewed beers at Swiftwater Brewery Company and Cajun classics downtown at French Quarter Cafe.
Outdoor Activities
Just steps from campus you’ll find historic areas to explore, scenic gardens, and events like the Lilac Festival in Highland Park. A short drive takes you to Lake Ontario, wineries, craft breweries, museums, concerts, biking along the Erie Canal, or hiking at Letchworth State Park.
Sports
Rochester is ranked as the #10 Best Golf City in the US and #1 for Golf Affordability. Popular sports teams include the Red Wings, Amerks hockey, and Rhinos soccer.
Housing Options
Rochester offers affordable housing options and easy navigation while providing access to cultural, recreational, and educational activities.
With a cost of living below the national average and proximity to the Finger Lakes region, many trainees choose to stay. Rochester ranks 14th for quality of life and 1st in affordable housing nationally.
Residential Life & Housing Services
The Office for Residential Life maintains six apartment complexes for students and trainees. The Off-Campus Housing Database provides property listings and contact information.
White Coat Neighborhood
The White Coat Neighborhood, so named for its high concentration of physician and medical student residents, is a 20-square-block area south of Strong Memorial Hospital and west of Mount Hope Avenue. Some students live just across Mount Hope Avenue, where housing is similar. Within this area is the SoLa neighborhood, south of Lattimore Road, which offers appealing student housing options. Most homes are single-family houses easily shared by three to four residents, providing affordable and convenient living close to campus.