R ochester, Minnesota has earned the designation of one of the Top Three Most Livable Cities by Money Magazine for five years straight. This survey takes into account several variables that affect quality of life, such as public safety, infrastructure, cost of living and amenities. Rochester has earned its place on this list partially due to its healthy economy, which maintains a strong diversity in industries such as health care, technology and agriculture. With such leading employers as the Mayo Clinic and IBM located in the town, Rochester has developed into an economic hub for southeastern Minnesota.

Rochester has an estimated population of around 90,000 residents, whose median age is 34 years old. Folks here have an average household income of approximately $74,000 per year. Home values in the area average approximately $202,000. The largest employment sectors in the area are manufacturing, health care, technology and the retail trade.

Rochester is additionally served by the presence of an excellent public school system. For students beginning or continuing higher education, Rochester is also home to several fine universities and colleges. These include Winona State University, Rochester Community College, Minnesota Bible College, and the prestigious Mayo Graduate School.

The town has also been lauded for its scenic beauty. While Rochester has every public service, amenity and recreational opportunity that one would expect from a city of its size, it is surrounded by the lush farmlands of the Zumbro River Valley. For those who enjoy spending some free time in the quiet solitude of nature, Rochester's location makes it easy to "get away from it all" for a picnic, a day of fishing on the Zumbro River, or a leisurely country drive.

Carley State Park, Silver Lake Park and the Quarry Hill Nature Center are all located within close proximity to the town, as well as 74 neighborhood parks dotted throughout the community. Most of these feature tennis courts, baseball diamonds and soccer fields. The city maintains six public golf courses and several indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Biking is a popular pastime in the area, and Rochester has created a series of bicycle paths that meander through Rochester. The existing 23 miles of paths will soon double to 36, making the entire town bike accessible.

Because Rochester is a four seasons town, residents here enjoy a variety of winter sports. When the snowflakes start falling, many take to the public parks for cross country skiing and sledding. Ice skating and hockey are popular, and there are many youth leagues and instruction for young people. For those who enjoy downhill skiing, you may choose from a variety of nearby hills, which are a great place for novice and intermediate skiers.

If you prefer to spend your free time shopping, Rochester is a haven. As the dominant commercial center in the region, Rochester is often the destination for shopping for folks from many of the surrounding communities. In this town, you can choose from megaplex indoor shopping malls to smaller boutiques in shopping centers throughout town. During the summer, the Farmers Market opens for business. Well known for its fresh produce from local farms, the Farmers Market is also a great place to take a leisurely stroll and people watch. As the season progresses, many different booths are added, including arts and crafts and specialty items.

Rochester is consistently ranked as one of the top cities in America for its quality of life. Combining public safety, a healthy economy, excellent public schools and an affordable cost of living, residents here can take pride in living in a thriving yet neighborly community. If you are thinking of moving to Rochester, Minnesota, our free relocation packet is yours for the asking!