As a longtime resident, I’m proud to call Rochester my home Our city has so much to offer in terms of community, entertainment, dining, arts and culture. There’s always something new to experience when living in the Flower City.
In this article, I’ll provide an overview of key information related to the City of Rochester. From city services and departments to upcoming events and attractions, read on to learn what makes Rochester such a vibrant, welcoming place to live and visit.
About the City of Rochester
With a population around 200000 people Rochester is the third largest city in New York state. Nicknamed the “Flower City,” Rochester blossomed into a booming hub for innovation and industry.
Eastman Kodak and Xerox Corporation established their headquarters here. Due to the Erie Canal and other waterways, flour mills and manufacturing plants propelled economic growth during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Today, Rochester continues to reinvent itself around technology, healthcare and education. The University of Rochester and other colleges provide an influx of young residents. Major employers like Paychex, Carestream Health and Wegmans make Rochester an employment anchor for the region.
Rochester prides itself on strong neighborhoods, a lively arts scene, historic architecture and natural beauty along Lake Ontario and the Genesee River. There’s always something happening in the Lilac City!
Rochester City Departments and Services
Rochester’s city government oversees a wide array of services and resources for residents. Here are some of the key departments:
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Neighborhood and Business Development promotes housing, commercial growth and employment opportunities. They work closely with neighborhood groups on community projects.
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The Department of Recreation and Human Services manages recreation centers, youth programs, athletic leagues, crisis intervention services and more.
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Rochester Animal Services runs the animal shelter and animal control. You can adopt a new furry friend!
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Rochester Police Department helps keep our community safe through law enforcement services.
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Rochester Fire Department responds to fires, medical emergencies and hazardous situations.
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The Department of Environmental Services handles trash and recycling collection plus water treatment and distribution.
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The Public Market offers farm-fresh produce, baked goods, crafts and events in a historic venue.
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Public Libraries provide books, digital resources, programs and classes at multiple neighborhood branches.
These are just a sampling of city departments that help maintain infrastructure, beautify public spaces, and enhance quality of life. Rochester city government works to serve community needs.
Property Records and Online Payments
The City of Rochester makes property records readily accessible to the public through their Property Information portal. Input an address to view data on property assessments, taxes, zoning and more. Satellite imagery allows you to visually inspect the property and surrounding area.
You can also make online payments for taxes, traffic tickets and water bills through the city’s website. The ability to access records and pay bills online provides convenience to residents.
Upcoming Events and Activities
From festivals to exhibits to sports, there’s always something happening in Rochester. Here are a few upcoming events and activities to check out:
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Park Avenue Festival (July 27-28) – Art, food and music festival along trendy Park Ave featuring over 200 vendors.
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Corn Hill Arts Festival (July 13-14) – Browse artwork from over 350 exhibitors at this historic neighborhood festival.
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Rochester International Jazz Festival (June 21-29) – 10 days of jazz performances held in downtown clubs and on outdoor stages.
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Public Market (Year-round) – Farmers, bakers and artisans sell seasonal goods Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays in an indoor pavilion.
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Genesee Riverway Trail – Walk, run or bike along the river through downtown and surrounding parks and neighborhoods.
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George Eastman Museum – Tour the mansion and galleries showcasing the photography pioneer’s life and work.
With so many events and attractions, there’s always something lively happening around town. The festivals, museums and recreational opportunities make Rochester an engaging place to call home.
Dining and Nightlife
From sweet shops to bistros to microbreweries, Rochester dining offers diverse flavors to suit any palate. Longtime institutions like Nick Tahou’s garlic hot wings and Tom Wahl’s beef on weck sandwich are local favorites. Trendy eateries continue opening along Park Avenue as it evolves into a walkable restaurant row.
The Public Market is a hub for farm-to-table fare. Neighborhoods like South Wedge and East Avenue contain cozy cafes and gastropubs. Food trucks congregate around lunchtime hotspots like the Liberty Pole downtown.
At night, locals and visitors alike flock to lively nightlife spots. Established music venues like the Montage Music Hall and Anthology downtown host major touring acts. For drinks and dancing, young professionals hit up East End mainstays like Lux and Solera. With new lounges and clubs continually popping up, Rochester’s nightlife scene stays fresh and vibrant.
Between homegrown institutions and hot new openings, Rochester provides dynamic culinary and nightlife experiences.
Museums and Galleries
Beyond Kodak and Xerox, Rochester also helped launch cultural movements. The Memorial Art Gallery showcases visual arts dating from antiquities to contemporary pieces. George Eastman, founder of Kodak, built a stately mansion that is now a museum exhibiting photography and film history.
The Strong National Museum of Play allows kids and adults to explore the world of games and toys. The Rochester Museum and Science Center features hands-on exhibits covering science, technology and local history. With multiple museums covering diverse subjects, there are always opportunities for learning and discovery.
Numerous galleries throughout the city highlight works by local artists. Monthly gallery nights provide chances to meet and support Rochester creatives. Organizations like Artist Breakfast Club and Rochester Contemporary Art Center give networking and exhibit space to emerging talent. Rochester’s vibrant arts scene enlivens the community.
Living in Rochester
What is daily living like in the Flower City? Rochester residents enjoy reasonable cost of living compared to other metro areas like NYC. Housing ranges from affordable starter homes to luxurious mansions in neighborhoods like East Avenue. Convenient bus routes connect outer suburbs with downtown. Characteristic of Upstate NY weather, Rochester sees picturesque snowy winters give way to sunny summer days.
While mentally preparing for the cold, locals find joy in seasonal activities like apple picking, ice skating and holiday festivals. Once spring hits, everyone flocks outdoors to walk in lively Lilac Festivals, cheer on baseball games, hike park trails, and enjoy patio happy hours.
Rochesterians bond over beloved local food and drink like “garbage plates,” Abbot’s frozen custard, Genesee beer and craft beverages from dozens of local breweries, cideries and distilleries. Residents feel a sense of community and shared identity through cultural institutions like the Public Market, arts scene and hometown sports teams.
Living in Rochester means enjoying reasonable cost of living, four distinct seasons, a thriving economy, and endless opportunities to explore arts, culture, cuisine and community.
Something for Everyone
As you can see, the City of Rochester contains a diverse array of sights, sounds, flavors and experiences. From the everyday services that enhance residents’ quality of life to special events that unite the community, Rochester offers something for everyone.
Through both prospering and challenging times over the past century, Rochester has retained its spirit of innovation, resilience and neighborliness. I feel fortunate to call this city my hometown. The City of Rochester provides an environment where people and communities can grow and thrive.
