Rochester, MN Area Guide

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Rochester, MN

Rochester, Minnesota, is the third-largest city in Minnesota and is frequently rated as one of the best places to live in America. With a population of around 150,000, it has many of the cultural advantages of big-city living coupled with the comfort and charm of hometown America. Rochester is famous for its culture of caring, its extensive parks systems, and its spirit of innovation.

Known worldwide as the home of the Mayo Clinic, Rochester's nickname is "Med City." The Mayo Clinic employs around 50,000 people and is Rochester's major industry. Every year, more than 2 million people from every state, and more than 150 countries, are treated at the Mayo Clinic. All the doctors receive a fixed salary, giving rise to a citywide feeling of fairness and equality.

Because of the Mayo Clinic's commitment to cutting-edge research, many talented young medical professionals are attracted to Rochester. IBM also has a large facility in Rochester making it a hub for technological innovation as well.

Nature lovers love Rochester! There are over 100 parks and 100 miles of paved biking and hiking trails. Whether you are interested in a leisurely lunch-break stroll or a challenging all-day hike, there is something in Rochester for you. Visit the Quarry Hill Nature Center, Sekapp Orchard and Pumpkin Patch, or Silver Lake Park for a relaxing brush with nature. However, remember that winters in Rochester are snowy and cold, so come prepared.

Rochester has a strong agricultural tradition. Visit their year-round farmers market every Thursday, tour one of their many pick-your-own farms and orchards, or enjoy a good meal at a farm-to-table restaurant.

A large variety of public art abounds in Rochester. The Mayo Clinic has long been committed to displaying works from world-famous artists as well as giving those just starting out a chance to be seen and appreciated. The Rochester Art Center offers a contemporary and innovative art experience.

Rochester has an interesting history. Take a tour of the Mayowood Mansion, the History Center of Olmsted County, the Mayo Clinic, the Assisi Heights Spiritual Center, the Rochester Trolley Company, or the Historic Chateau Theatre House for a fascinating step back in time.

Rochester has an excellent public transportation system. Because so many people fly in for treatment at the Mayo Clinic, all forms of public transit are readily available and affordable. Eco-friendly forms of transportation such as biking, park-and-ride and carpooling are strongly encouraged.

Relocating to Rochester, Minnesota, is cost-effective. All major indicators for cost-of-living (housing, health care, transportation, groceries and utilities) are slightly below the national average. The quality-of-life indexes are well above the national average. If you love nature, crave a healthy living style, like a city with big city conveniences and a small-town feel, and want to be at the center of medical and technological advances Rochester is the city for you.