Rochester New York has many great qualities, but it is not for everyone. Here are 19 reasons why you might want to reconsider moving to Rochester, New York.
The Weather is Unpredictable
Rochester, New York has some of the most unpredictable weather in the country. It can be cold and snowy in the winter, hot and humid in the summer, and wet and rainy in the spring and fall. The temperature can change drastically in a matter of hours, making it difficult to plan outdoor activities.
The Cost of Living is High
Rochester, New York is one of the most expensive cities in the country. The cost of living is high, and housing costs can be even higher. The median home price in Rochester is over $200,000, and the median rent is over $1,000. This can be difficult for those on a budget.
High Taxes
The high cost of living in Rochester is compounded by the high taxes. The state income tax rate is 8.82%, and the sales tax rate is 8.75%. This can make it difficult for residents to keep up with their bills.
Traffic Congestion
Rochester has a population of over 210,000 people, and the city is prone to traffic congestion. The roads are often crowded, and it can take a long time to get from one place to another.
Limited Job Opportunities
Rochester is not known for its job opportunities. The unemployment rate is higher than the national average, and the average salary is lower than the national average. This can make it difficult for those looking for a job.
Crime Rate is High
Rochester has one of the highest crime rates in the country. Violent crime, property crime, and drug crime are all common in the city. Residents need to be aware of their surroundings and take steps to protect themselves.
Poor Public Transportation
Rochester’s public transportation system is inadequate and unreliable. The buses are often late or canceled, and the trains are slow and outdated. This can make it difficult for those without a car to get around.
Poor Air Quality
Rochester has some of the poorest air quality in the country. The air is often filled with pollutants, and the air quality can worsen during the summer months. This can be dangerous for those with respiratory issues.
High Cost of Health Care
Health care in Rochester is expensive. The cost of health insurance is high, and the cost of medical care can be even higher. This can make it difficult for those without insurance to get the care they need.
Poor School System
Rochester’s school system is underfunded and underperforming. The schools are overcrowded, and the teachers are often underpaid. This can make it difficult for students to get the education they need.
Lack of Entertainment
Rochester is not known for its entertainment options. The city has a few bars and restaurants, but there are no major attractions or entertainment venues. This can make it difficult for those looking for something to do.
High Poverty Rate
Rochester has a high poverty rate, with over 30% of the population living below the poverty line. This can make it difficult for those in need to get the resources they need.
Few Outdoor Activities
Rochester is not known for its outdoor activities. There are few parks and trails, and the city is prone to flooding. This can make it difficult for those looking to enjoy the outdoors.
No Beach Access
Rochester is far from any beach. The closest beach is more than two hours away, making it difficult for those looking for a day at the beach.
Lack of Diversity
Rochester is not known for its diversity. The city is predominantly white, and there is a lack of cultural and racial diversity. This can make it difficult for those looking for a diverse community.
High Unemployment Rate
Rochester has one of the highest unemployment rates in the country. The unemployment rate is higher than the national average, and it can be difficult for those looking for work to find a job.
Lack of Nightlife
Rochester is not known for its nightlife. The city has a few bars and clubs, but there are few late-night entertainment options. This can make it difficult for those looking for something to do after dark.
Poor Public Services
Rochester’s public services are inadequate and unreliable. The city’s infrastructure is aging, and the public services are often slow and inefficient. This can make it difficult for residents to get the services they need.
High Cost of Utilities
The cost of utilities in Rochester is higher than the national average. This can make it difficult for those on a budget to keep up with their bills.
No Major Sports Teams
Rochester does not have any major professional sports teams. This can make it difficult for sports fans to find something to do on the weekends.
Rochester, New York has many great qualities, but it is not for everyone. For those looking for a new place to live, it is important to consider all of the pros and cons of the city before making a decision.