2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Forest Lake, MN vs Rochester, MN

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Rochester older or younger than people in Forest Lake?
- The Median Age in Rochester is 2.5 years younger than in Forest Lake.

Are housing costs cheaper in Rochester or Forest Lake?
- Rochester housing costs are 23.1% less expensive than Forest Lake housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Rochester or Forest Lake?
- The average commute for residents of Rochester is 12.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Forest Lake.

Things to do in Forest Lake?
Forest Lake is located in Washington County Minnesota with an estimated population around 19,100 people as of 2020. The area provides plenty amenities such as shopping malls offering small household items all the way up to electronic items ideal for those looking for retail therapy plus there are several restaurants ranging from casual cafes to luxury dining venues offering something special every day besides that there are many outdoor activities available here giving folks yet another opportunity to take part in some genuine sightseeing experience .

Things to do in Rochester?
Rochester, Minnesota is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Midwest. Home to the renowned Mayo Clinic and University of Minnesota-Rochester, this city offers plenty to explore. From its variety of shopping options to its multitude of museums and cultural attractions, visitors can experience something unique. Visitors can also take advantage of the area's parks and trails for a breath of fresh air and connect with nature. Whether you're looking for an educational experience or a leisurely weekend getaway, Rochester has something for everyone!

 Forest Lake, MNRochester, MNUnited States
 Population  Unlock119,732329,725,481
 Median Income$87,753  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$379,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time28.17  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Forest Lake    0 Reviews

Start Your Review of Forest Lake

Reviews for Rochester    31 Reviews

Roch (and Minnesota) is a great place IF you live off the govt dole; subsidize undesirable things (through generous welfare benefits, lax law enforcement and sentences,  More

   |    Reply

Rochester is very vanilla. As a progressive, this place is not good. The area leans conservative and you'll see Trump signs everywhere... so that tells you the type of  More

   |    Reply

Over 5 years ago

I moved here over 20 years ago from California and I was in shock for the first couple of years that people actually lived in such a cold climate! Winter starts around  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Rochester


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.