Aerial image of University of Rochester with city of Rochester in background

Our Community

The 5-8-5: Living in Rochester

Known by many names—the Flower City (or the Flour City), the ROC, the 5-8-5— Rochester is located in western New York. We’re closer to Toronto than to New York City, although both are within driving distance. Take a close look at the city we call home.

Student in airport with briefcase and cell phone

One-hour flight from NYC

Located in western New York between Buffalo and Syracuse, Rochester is a three-hour drive from Toronto and just over an hour flight from New York City, Philadelphia, and Boston.

University of Rochester - Hopeman Engineering Building

Four seasons

Yes, it snows here—though probably not as much as you think. From sailing to rowing, skiing to hiking, there’s something new or different for outdoor enthusiasts to try all year round.

Festivals and attractions

Jazz, lilacs, film, food trucks, the Erie Canal—you name it, we probably have a festival or event celebrating it sometime in the spring through fall. Sports fans, meanwhile, can attend the home games of our professional baseball team (the Red Wings) or hockey team (the Amerks).

Out and about

Our walkable downtown—complete with a scenic river walkway and majestic waterfall—is surrounded by the natural wonders of the Genesee River, the Finger Lakes, and the Great Lakes, along with parks, trails, beaches, gorges, and wine country.

What it’s like to live in Rochester

Aerial view of the sprawling University of Rochester campus bordered by a meandering river in the foreground, surrounded by autumn-colored trees. The opposite bank features suburban neighborhoods, and a distant skyline of city buildings is visible under a partly cloudy sky.

Our campuses: A citywide network

The University has multiple campuses in and near downtown Rochester—each with distinct areas like classrooms, labs, performance halls, medical practices, and even lasers!

Plan your visit

Hear from a URochester Yellowjacket

I love the community I’ve found here...I was anxious about being so far from home, but there are so many resources to help you feel connected. I’ve made close friends through my classes and even joined rugby, which has been an amazing new passion. The sense of belonging here is incredible.

Julia Kubes ’25

A young
woman smiling, wearing a black cardigan with a large yellow R, stands in front of a green leafy
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Discover student and campus life

Jazzed about making an impact

We’re partners for the annual International Jazz Festival, which brings world-renowned and diverse musicians to Rochester. It’s one of many ways we make a difference in our region—whether it’s economically, socially, or culturally.

Check out the Jazz Festival