Best Neighborhoods in Rochester, MN

Finding the perfect home in an unfamiliar city can be challenging. Too often homebuyers search the internet for their ideal home, location and neighborhood qualities, but end up frustrated.  Thankfully, you have found a local expert that is ready to divulge insider knowledge on the best neighborhoods in Rochester, MN. Below, you will find a quick categorized synopsis of the common characteristics that area homebuyers look for in Rochester, MN neighborhoods.  

Close to Downtown and Mayo Clinic |  Best Neighborhoods in Rochester, Minnesota

First and foremost, odds are that if you are coming to Rochester, you’ll want to be close to downtown.  Living downtown means being centrally located within the city and all of its amenities.  Maybe you want to walk to work or live close to the entertainment scene and popular restaurants.  Most commonly, Rochester homebuyers have an elevated desire to reside close to the Mayo Clinic and its buildings. With that said, some of Rochester’s best neighborhoods in the downtown area include: Pill Hill, Folwell, Kutzky Park, Historic Southwest, Downtown, Slatterly Park, Lowertown and East Pioneer Park.  

New and Newer Construction Homes | Best Neighborhoods in Rochester, Minnesota

Next, if you desire a new or newer construction property, looking to the outskirts of the city limits is where you will have the best luck. Popular neighborhood developments to the south include Hart Farms, Mayo Woodlands, Millie Meadows, Merrihills, Greystone-Baronwood, Windermere Woods, Echo-Ridge and Scenic Oaks. Then, to the northwest of Rochester, Badger Ridge, Manor Woods and Crimson Ridge neighborhoods have newer construction.  Lastly, on the northeast end of the city are the Century Hills and Cassidy Ridge neighborhoods.

Luxury Homes | Best Neighborhoods in Rochester, Minnesota 

Next, Rochester homeowners also covet impressive homes with expansive layouts, grand foyers, custom kitchens, manicured lawns and pristine landscaping.  The best neighborhoods for luxury homes can be found throughout Rochester.  First, the luxury neighborhoods closest to downtown include Pill Hill, Foxcroft and the Baihly Neighborhoods (including Baihly Heights, Baihly Meadows and Baihly Woodlands).  Then, just to the south of downtown, Mayo Woodlands, Millie Meadows, Merrihills, Greystone-Baronwood, Echo-Ridge and Scenic Oaks can be found.  Next, to the west is the Boulder Creek neighborhood.  Lastly, to the northwest portion of the city are Century Hills and Cassidy Ridge neighborhoods.

Historic Homes  (1875-1940’s) | Best Neighborhoods in Rochester, Minnesota

Next, if the charm of historic homes is desirable, then you are in luck. The opportunity to own a piece of Rochester’s heritage is available throughout the city.  Typical Rochester historic homes still have original hardwood flooring, stone walkways, brick exteriors, unique floor plans (butler’s pantry) and timeless home accents.  Depending on their location, these homes can be cozy to average to expansive in size (1,200-5,000 sq. ft.) and can date back to as early as 1875.  Additionally, it should be noted that many of these homes have been remodeled, updated and/or are awaiting for an investor to restore it to its old glory. With that said, some of the best historic neighborhoods within downtown Rochester include the charming Kutzky Park, Folwell, the awe-inspiring Pill Hill, Historic Southwest, Lowertown, Slatterly Park and East Pioneer Park.  On the outskirts of town, the best historic neighborhoods include Mayowood Hills, the Salem neighborhoods and Northeast Rochester in the Quarry Hill vicinity.   

Affordable Homes | Best Neighborhoods in Rochester, Minnesota

Rochester has multiple affordable homes (under $300,000) in established neighborhoods.  Some of the best (and popular) neighborhoods include Country Club Manor, Elton Hills, John Adams and Slatterly Park.  In Country Club Manor, John Adams and Elton Hills, you will find single-family 1950’s ramblers to 1980’s split-levels.  Alternatively, Slatterly Park offers cozy, historic homes that are over 100 years old.   

Condos & Apartments (Owned) | Best Neighborhoods in Rochester, Minnesota

As Rochester continues to grow, multi-unit real estate has become increasingly popular throughout the city.  The best neighborhoods in Rochester, MN with established apartment or condominium buildings for ownership include Downtown, Lowertown, Kutzky Park, Country Club Manor, Silver Lake, Historic Southwest, Viking Park and Indian Heights Park.  Each of these developments offers their own perks that include personal garages, pools and/or recreation rooms.  Additionally, these types of properties typically have a homeowner association (HOA) for an added cost, that assists in property management, upkeep, lawn care and snow removal. These types of homes are perfect for the busy professional, single parent, small family, elderly and anyone that wants a low maintenance home.    

Article Disclaimer:  Please bear in mind that the best neighborhood in Rochester, MN is subjective to each person and is dependent on factors that include location, schools, travel-time to work, family, activities, hobbies, home style preferences, budget/affordability, walkability and so forth.  

List of Rochester, MN Neighborhoods

 FAQs

  • Rochester, MN is generally considered to be a safe place to live. The city has a low crime rate, and the police department works hard to keep the community safe. Additionally, the city has a variety of programs in place to ensure that individuals feel safe and secure in their neighborhoods. For example, the city has Neighborhood Watch programs, and the police department regularly holds community meetings to discuss safety and security. So overall, yes, Rochester, MN is a safe place to live.

  • The cost of living in Rochester, MN is very reasonable. According to a recent cost of living index report, Rochester has a score of 92.5, which is 7.5% lower than the national average. The housing market in Rochester is fairly affordable, with the median home cost being around $290,000. Additionally, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $800 per month. Overall, the cost of living in Rochester is quite reasonable and offers a great quality of life for those looking to settle down in the area.

  • Absolutely! Rochester, Minnesota is a wonderful place to live. It has a wide variety of activities and attractions, ranging from museums and parks to restaurants and shopping centers. The city is also home to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, providing excellent healthcare options. The city is safe and has a strong sense of community. It also offers a range of housing options, making it a great place to call home.

  • Here are a few great ideas of things to do in the area:

    1) Take a stroll through the Quarry Hill Nature Center, where you can explore trails and take in the stunning views of the town.

    2) Explore the downtown area and check out the various shops, restaurants, and galleries.

    3) Catch a show at the Rochester Civic Theatre, which puts on a variety of plays and musicals.