During the early 20th century, Rochester saw rapid growth, spurred by a wave of immigrants. New arrivals led to increased industrialization and labor activism. The city became a hub for newly formed industrial unions and began to acquire influence in local government. This resulted in the city becoming America’s most livable city. Today, Rochester enjoys a high quality of life and affordable real estate. For these reasons, Rochester remains one of the most desirable places to live in the New York region.
Originally known as “Rochester,” the city now lies on the shores of Lake Ontario, and is home to the largest industrial center in the state. The city is part of a greater metropolitan area encompassing Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, and Wayne counties. The metropolitan area is home to more than 1 million people, and is now the third largest in New York State. While it was predominantly white in the 1950s, Rochester is now becoming a more diverse city, with a population of approximately 38 percent white people, 42 percent African American, 16 percent Latino, and three percent Asian.
If you’re planning a trip to Rochester, consider purchasing a map to navigate the city. Unlike most cities, Rochester has four distinct seasons. Its location on the southern shores of Lake Ontario results in vast amounts of snowfall. Winters are extremely cold, and Rochester sometimes sets records for annual snowfall. In the spring, however, there is plenty of rain, but late snowstorms are possible, depending on the year.
Rochester has a high crime rate. Its violent crime rate is nearly quadruple that of the national average. Rochester has higher crime rates in the property and personal categories than many other cities in the nation. Although Rochester is home to a variety of diverse cultures, it remains the ideal location for a family. Its climate is temperate and mild, and temperatures rarely dip below the freezing mark. A high quality of life is a key to success in any city.
The city of Rochester is home to many scenic sights. The Genesee Valley was formed during the Cenozoic era by huge glaciers. Today, the Genesee River has several waterfalls and gorges, and the nearby Finger Lakes feature hundreds of scenic streams and ponds. For those who prefer to travel by car, Rochester is easily accessible by car or plane. If you’d rather take public transportation, the Regional Transit Service (RTS) has several routes throughout downtown Rochester.
The city’s history is rich with innovation and creativity. It was one of the nation’s first boomtowns, thanks to the flour milling industry located on the Genesee River. Since the mid-nineteenth century, the city’s manufacturing sector has grown to include the production of many recognizable brands. In 2015, the city also became a national hub for Photonics products. In recent years, the city has seen a boom in education and health services, and its university population has increased to 26,905 employees.