Living in Rochester
Rochester is a mid-sized city in western New York full of culture and character. Take a closer look at the city we call home.
What’s it like to live in Rochester?
Big-city culture, small-town feel
Rochester really is the best of both worlds. With access to world-renowned festivals and museums, the arts and culture scene is top-notch. But, the city itself is walkable, tight-knit, and easy to navigate. URochester is nestled right near downtown, so you’re always a quick trip away to something amazing.
Natural wonders abound
Our walkable downtown—complete with a scenic river walkway and majestic waterfall—is surrounded by the natural wonders of the Genesee River, the Finger Lakes, and the Great Lakes, along with numerous parks, trails, beaches, gorges, and wine country.
Four seasons of fun
Yes, it snows here—though probably not as much as you might think. Rochester enjoys all four seasons, from colorful leaves in the fall to beautiful flowers in the spring. There’s something new or different for outdoor enthusiasts to try all year round—whether it’s on the water, on the trail, or on the slopes.
Student perspectives and recommendations
Hear from URochester students about what it’s like living here and the best things to check out around town.
On the map
Rochester is located in western New York between Buffalo and Syracuse. We’re about three-hour drive from Toronto, or about a six-hour drive from NYC or Boston. But, the Greater Rochester airport has plenty of non-stop, one-hour flights to NYC, Philadelphia, and Boston. The URochester campus is only a few minutes away from the airport and an Amtrak station, so there’s plenty of convenient ways to get in and out of the city.
Picture yourself living in Rochester
I love the community I’ve found here...I was anxious about being so far from home, but there are so many resources to help you feel connected...The sense of belonging here is incredible.
Our campuses: A citywide network
The University has multiple campuses in and near downtown Rochester—each with distinct areas like classrooms, labs, performance halls, medical practices, and even lasers!
The URochester community: your questions, answered
What’s the weather like in Rochester?
The city of Rochester and Finger Lakes region enjoys four distinct seasons! From picturesque summer sun, colorful leaves in autumn, falling snow in winter, and beautiful spring flowers, there’s always beautiful scenery to enjoy. Winters do get snowy, but not as much as you might think. There’s something new or different for outdoor enthusiasts to try all year round—whether it’s on the water, on the trail, or on the slopes.
What’s there to do in Rochester?
Rochester is a tight-knit and easy-to-navigate city with lots to do and see! The arts and culture scene is particularly notable, with world-renowned performances, festivals, and museums. There are local sports teams to check out, including professional lacrosse and minor league baseball and hockey—not to mention we’re close to Buffalo for their professional sports venues! And, Rochester has lots of natural wonders to enjoy, with numerous parks right in our backyard and our close proximity to the Genesee River, the Great Lakes, ski resorts, and Niagara Falls. Plus, there’s plenty of campus activities to enjoy!
What’s there to do on URochester’s campus?
Campus life at URochester is thriving! There are 285+ clubs and student organizations, and 90% of students are involved in at least one organization—from leadership and service to performance and recreation, students find communities that reflect their interests. There’s also many unique campus traditions to take part in!
As a leading research institution, there’s always chances to hear speakers, see research presentations, and expand your knowledge.
The Eastman School of Music welcomes the community to enjoy incredible ensembles and concerts—there’s 900+ performances annually. The Memorial Art Gallery is a beautiful gallery with 12,000+ works of art that students, faculty, and staff call enjoy for free. Plus, the city of Rochester has plenty to do and see!
What airport serves the University of Rochester?
The Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport is a travel hub with domestic and international flights that connects more than 2.7 million passengers annually via 500+ flights a week. The airport is less than ten minutes away from the University of Rochester’s main campus.
Find out more about URochester
Applying to URochester
Find more information on how to apply to our undergraduate and graduate programs, financial aid, and more.
How to apply
Campus and student life
Check out things to do and see on campus, and explore resources to make the most of your URochester experience.
Our community
Schedule a tour
Check out the place we call home. Sign up for a tour of the University of Rochester’s campuses.
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