If you’re considering living outside the city, the suburbs around Rochester offer a wide range of communities, each with its own character, amenities, and lifestyle. From walkable villages and family-friendly neighborhoods to quiet towns near parks and waterfront views along Lake Ontario, there are many options to explore depending on what matters most to you. This article highlights several towns and communities surrounding Rochester to help you get a sense of what each area offers.
While the city has much to offer, Greater Rochester sprawls out of Monroe County. One can live on the outskirts and still easily commute into Rochester. The surrounding towns and villages have a lot to offer families.
The city of Rochester was built along the Genesee River and the Erie Canal. There are several quaint villages along the Erie Canal including Brockport, Spencerport, Pittsford and Fairport. Each neighborhood surrounding Rochester has their own hub for the town with shopping, libraries and area for family events.
Brighton
Brighton seamlessly connects to Rochester, making it hard to tell where one ends and the other begins. Known for its walkability and vibrant local scene, Brighton features a mix of restaurants, cafes, parks, and cultural spots. Its central location makes it especially convenient for commuting while still offering a strong community feel.
Chili
Chili (pronounced “CHY-lie”) offers a small-town atmosphere with a close-knit community feel. While quieter than some neighboring suburbs, it still provides everyday conveniences, including shopping plazas and local restaurants. It’s a great option for those looking for a balance between affordability and a relaxed pace of life.
Gates
Gates has a dense suburban feel with a mix of residential neighborhoods, parks, and commercial areas. Its proximity to the city makes commuting easy, while local shopping centers and businesses provide everyday convenience. Gates offers a practical, accessible lifestyle with a variety of housing options.
Greece
Greece is one of the largest suburbs of Rochester and is known for its wide range of shopping and dining options. Destinations like The Mall at Greece Ridge draw visitors from across the region, while the town hall campus offers family-friendly amenities like a playground, splash pad, and library. With access to Lake Ontario and numerous parks, Greece combines convenience with opportunities for outdoor fun.
Henrietta
Henrietta is a hub for shopping, dining, and convenience, making it a practical choice for many families and students alike. Home to Rochester Institute of Technology, the town has a lively, diverse feel. Its central location and access to major roadways make it easy to get around the greater Rochester area.
Irondequoit
Irondequoit offers a welcoming, neighborhood feel with tree-lined streets, sidewalks, and a mix of classic homes that make it especially appealing for first-time buyers. Its strong sense of community is centered around local gathering spots like the town hall campus and library, and its proximity to both Lake Ontario and the bay provides easy access to scenic views and outdoor recreation.
Penfield
Penfield offers a well-rounded suburban lifestyle with plenty to see and do right in town. Known for its abundance of parks, trails, and community spaces, it’s easy for families to stay active and connected year-round. Penfield also features a growing mix of local businesses, restaurants, and community events, giving it a lively yet approachable feel while still being conveniently close to Rochester.
Pittsford
Pittsford combines a polished suburban atmosphere with historic charm. The village area along the Erie Canal is a highlight, with scenic paths, boutiques, and cozy cafes perfect for a leisurely afternoon. With plenty of parks and well-kept neighborhoods, Pittsford is known for its picturesque setting and relaxed pace.
Webster
In Webster, families will find a wide variety of neighborhoods, from established subdivisions to newer developments. The town offers convenient shopping with multiple plazas, as well as a charming village area that hosts local events and small businesses. Its location along Lake Ontario also adds to its appeal, with parks and waterfront access enhancing everyday life.
Things For Moms To Consider When Moving To Rochester
Schools
As moms, one of the first things we consider when moving to a new area are the school districts. US News and World Report has a helpful database of ranked schools. Also check out our Guide To Private Schools, Preschools & Child Care and our Guide To Homeschool Co-ops and Groups.
Groceries & Shopping
Around Rochester, you will find Wegman’s, Aldi, Tops, Target and Walmart for grocery shopping. For fresh produce and food, you don’t have to go very far outside of the city to find a local farm. Your choice of mall-shopping is at The Mall At Greece Ridge in Greece and Eastview Mall in Victor. For bulk-shoppers, there is a Costco in Henrietta and BJs in Gates, Henrietta and Webster.
Amenities
Some of the great amenities to consider living near include a local library. The Monroe County Library Systems has over 30 locations throughout Rochester. The YMCA of Greater Rochester hosts classes for adults and children and most locations have Child Watch. There is a lot to love about being outdoors at the Monroe County Parks. Rochester is also full of great playgrounds and splash pads.
Commuting
Rochester is a very drivable city, but also has the Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation System (RTS) with bus routes throughout the city and Monroe County. Living near one of the freeways is convenient for traveling around Rochester.
Safety
Safety is always a concern for moms in a new neighborhood. You can check the CrimeGrade for different areas of Monroe County.
