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Rochester, NH

Frequently asked questions

Rochester, NH

Rochester is a city in Strafford County, New Hampshire, United States. The population was 32,492 at the 2020 census, making it the 6th most populous city in New Hampshire. In addition to the downtown area, the city contains the villages of East Rochester, Gonic, and North Rochester. Rochester is home to Skyhaven Airport and part of Baxter Lake. Rochester was one of New Hampshire's fastest growing cities between 2010 and 2020.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 45.4 square miles (117.7 km²), of which 45.0 square miles (116.6 km²) are land and 0.4 square miles (1.1 km²) are water, comprising 0.91% of the city. Rochester is drained by the Salmon Falls, Isinglass and Cochecho rivers. The highest point in Rochester is 581-foot-high (177 m) Chestnut Hill, occupying the northern corner of the city.

New Hampshire Route 16 (the Spaulding Turnpike) is a six-lane controlled-access highway that passes through the city, leading north towards Conway and south to Dover and Portsmouth. U.S. Route 202 uses the turnpike to bypass the city center, then heads northeastward into Maine and southwestward towards Concord. New Hampshire Route 125 passes north–south through the center of town, leading south to Lee and Epping, and traveling north parallel to NH 16 into Milton. New Hampshire Route 11 leads west to Alton and Laconia and northeast along US 202 into Maine. New Hampshire Route 108 leads southeast to Dover, and New Hampshire Route 202A leads southwest to Strafford and Northwood.

Besides the main downtown part of Rochester, there are two other named communities of significance within the city limits. East Rochester, a small neighborhood, is located near the northeastern border of the city along routes 202 and 11, next to the Salmon Falls River, while Gonic (from the Native American name Squanamagonic) is located south of downtown along NH 125 at a dam on the Cocheco River.

The town was one of four granted by colonial governor Samuel Shute of Massachusetts and New Hampshire during his brief term. Incorporated in 1722, it was named for his close friend, Laurence Hyde, 1st Earl of Rochester, brother-in-law to King James II. As was customary, tall white pine trees were reserved for use as masts by the Royal Navy.

In 1737, the Reverend Amos Main became the first settled pastor of the Congregational Church, located on Rochester Hill. The building would be moved to Rochester Common, which then encompassed 250 acres (1.0 km²) and was called "Norway Plain Mille Common" after its abundant Norway pines. At the time, the Common extended into what is now downtown Rochester. By 1738, the farming community contained 60 families. A statue of Parson Main, sculpted by Giuseppe Moretti, today presides over the town square.

Health and wellness are paramount in Rochester, with the city offering various amenities and services to support the well-being of its residents. The Birch Healthcare Center stands as a cornerstone in providing comprehensive healthcare services to the community. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Rochester Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include CrossFit Gym, Athletic Instinct and Planet Fitness. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Rochester, such as the Isinglass Trail and Pickering Ponds. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Rochester, NH include the Rochester Crossing, The Ridge Marketplace, and Rochester Opera House.

Population: 33,169 (2022). Elevation: 225 ft (69 m). Area: 45.44 sq mi (117.68 km²). ZIP Codes: 03839. Area code: 603.

FAQs

What is Rochester, NH known for?

Rochester is well known for its arts, cultural and recreational amenities. The historic Rochester Opera House provides live performances including music, dance, theater and also offers the Rochester Performance & Arts Center for developing performing artists. The Rochester Museum of Fine Arts provides public art exhibits in several locations throughout the City. In addition, craft galleries, antiques and collectible shops are offered.

What's it like to live in Rochester, NH?

Rochester is in Strafford County. Living in Rochester offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. Many young professionals live in Rochester and residents tend to lean liberal.

Is Rochester, NH expensive to live in?

Rochester is 4% more expensive than the national average and 4% less expensive to live in than the average city in New Hampshire. This assumes a $72,000 annual salary and a 2 Bedroom Apt. Food costs in Rochester are less affordable than average in the United States. Transportations costs in Rochester are more affordable than average in the United States.

Sources

Wikipedia 

City of Rochester

Birch Healthcare Center 

Rochester Parks and Recreation Department 

CrossFit Gym

Athletic Instinct

Planet Fitness

Isinglass Trail 

Pickering Ponds

Rochester Crossing

The Ridge Marketplace

Rochester Opera House

Greater Rochester

Niche

Erieri

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