2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Normal, IL vs Rochester, NY

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Highlights
Are people in Rochester older or younger than people in Normal?
- The Median Age in Rochester is 7.8 years older than in Normal.

Are housing costs cheaper in Rochester or Normal?
- Rochester housing costs are 37.6% less expensive than Normal housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Rochester or Normal?
- The average commute for residents of Rochester is 2.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Normal.

Things to do in Normal?
Normal, Illinois is a vibrant city located in McLean County, just north of Bloomington-Normal. It is home to Illinois State University and has a bustling downtown area with numerous shops, restaurants, and businesses. Normal is a major hub in the region for healthcare, finance and education opportunities. There are abundant recreational options including natural areas, parks and trails that offer plenty of outdoor activities. A variety of cultural amenities are also available such as theater performances, festivals, art galleries and other entertainment venues that give residents something to do in their spare time. Normal is truly a wonderful place where people can come together to work, play, learn and live!

Things to do in Rochester?
Rochester, New York is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions for everyone. Nature lovers can explore the scenic Genesee River or take a hike at Durand Eastman Park. History buffs should check out sites like the George Eastman Museum to learn more about the area's past. Sports fans can catch a game at Frontier Field, while foodies can sample all kinds of delicious eats throughout town. Shopping lovers should visit The Marketplace at Oxbridge or Pittsford Plaza for good deals on all kinds of items. With its rich culture and exciting activities, Rochester is an incredible place to visit!

 Normal, ILRochester, NYUnited States
 Population  Unlock211,100329,725,481
 Median Income$58,564  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$209,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.8%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.8  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Normal    5 Reviews

While not a perfect town by any stretch of the imagination, I have lived in Normal my entire life and I have to say that there are FAR worse places one could live. The  More

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Over 16 years ago

I would like to know more about the quality of education at Illinois State  More

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With relatively low crime, good schools and excellent access to higher education, Normal is a great place to raise a family. The city is trying to update its city center  More

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Reviews for Rochester    79 Reviews

Stay out of the rougher patches, and you'll find a pretty solid city. I live within close proximity to it, and the crime from it DOES rub off on us (auto theft), but  More

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Rochester isn't perfect (I'll detail pros and cons), but it's certainly perfect for me and my husband. We've lived here for 4 years and are getting ready to purchase our  More

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Rochester is a scenic city with so much to offer in terms of things to do and having 4 seasons, except the summer is more like a long spring!! It's a relatively unknown  More

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