Rochester, MN Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Rochester, MN: What You Need to Know

Rochester is the seat of Olmsted County in southeastern Minnesota. The city is known the world over as the home of the prestigious Mayo Clinic.

Job Opportunities

About one million people from 140 countries seek treatment at Mayo Clinic every year, making it the centerpiece of Rochester’s health-care industry. The city is investing in a 20-year economic development initiative called Destination Medical Center to position itself as the world’s premier destination for health and wellness. The wholesale and retail industry is the second-largest employment sector in Rochester and Olmsted County. Top employers include Mayo Clinic, IBM, Rochester Public Schools, Olmsted Medical Center, and McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing.

Weather and Climate

Tornadoes served as the impetus for Mayo Clinic’s establishment. On Aug. 21, 1883, three tornadoes struck southeast Minnesota, causing 40 deaths and over 200 injuries. After an F5 twister hit Rochester, Dr. William W. Mayo, his two sons, and the nuns of St. Francis cared for injured people. The disaster highlighted the need for a hospital in Rochester, ultimately leading to the establishment of Mayo Clinic. Barring any tornadoes, the city receives 34 inches of rain versus the U.S. average of 38 inches, and 48 inches of snow annually compared with the national average of 28 inches.

Cost of Living

Access to world-class health care and economic opportunities in Rochester (population: 118,935) has its own price. The city’s cost of living is 9% higher than the national average, but at least, food and housing costs are 21% and 7.6% lower than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent is $942. The North Star State imposes 5.35% to 9.85% in income tax, one of the highest in the country. The state levies 6.875% to 8.875% in sales tax.

Know Your Neighborhoods

The Zumbro River passes through the heart of downtown Rochester, one of the things locals like about their city. They rave about the year-round farmers market and the great entertainment and dining at the Castle Community. Rochester has excellent schools, but families who prefer the suburbs should check out Haverhill Township and Oronoco Township. Both are known for their top-notch schools.

Shopping in Town

Apache Mall is southeastern Minnesota's largest enclosed shopping center, with 86 stores and a dozen restaurants. If you’re looking for unique gifts and specialty items, head over to downtown's Shops at University Square. Downtown Rochester boasts of a climate-controlled skyway and underground walkways, where you can also enjoy shopping and dining.