New York · Population 209,720 · Updated March 2026
How far your income goes in Rochester
State-level tax rates that affect your costs
Rochester is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 61 (where 100 equals the national median), Rochester residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,039/month while earning a median household income of $46,628/year.
The median home value in Rochester, NY is $120,600, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,009 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 26.7%, Rochester falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.
New York's top income tax rate of 10.9% is among the highest in the nation, adding to the overall cost burden. Combined with a 4.0% sales tax rate and 1.62% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Rochester.
Common questions about living costs in Rochester
Similar-sized cities to compare
Compare the cost of living in Rochester, NY with 299 other major U.S. cities