A good area with a bad reputation...
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3/10/2008
I have read many of the reviews about the Rochester area and I have noticed an overwhelming misconception that the Rochester area has a bad economy. People who have lived here a long time gauge the entire region by what Kodak and Xerox are doing; Yes, Kodak and Xerox and B&L were mismanaged manufacturers that are in decline. Well, I hate to break it to everyone but lots of those kinds of companies are not doing well all over the country. But they don't represent all the jobs here. I moved here last year after being gone for several years from Jacksonville, Fl and I had no trouble finding a decent job. I make good money (more than I did in Florida where I couldn’t afford a home of my own) and find that the low cost of living makes my dollar stretch. The unemployment rate in the Rochester area as of Feb 2008 is 4.9%, the national average is 5% - how is that a terrible economy? If you are looking to move here, look at the facts about the economy first before people talk you out of it.
Now, I know that the area isn't perfect. Obviously, there is a lot of snow - so if you don't like snow this area isn't for you. But lots of thriving large cities have lots of snow like Chicago and Minneapolis. But if you like actual seasons, snow and all, we have those here. Home prices are very good for what you get, even in the more expensive suburbs. Yes, property taxes are high, but the discontent finally has the attention of the government so it's being worked on. There is state income tax: Only 9 states don't have income tax (and one of them is Alaska, so if you have already shunned the area for snow then it's just 8 for you :) ) so many places people live happy lives include state income tax.
The traffic is wonderful around here. An extensive expressway system keeps the traffic moving. Only very rarely (maybe once a month) do I sit in stop and go rush-hour traffic on I-490.
In conclusion, I hope that people look at all the facts when making judgments about this area. It's a great area overall, not perfect, but what area is? This area is safe from natural disasters (no hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes or mudslides), droughts and boom-bust cycles that other areas are prone to. Plus it’s close to large cities like Boston and NYC without having to put up with all their pollution and crime.
Derek | Rochester, NY