$433,293Average Value$291Average Price per Sq Ft31Homes For Sale
Mid-sized New Hampshire city with a growing downtown
Centrally located between the White Mountains, the Lakes Region and the Seacoast Region of New Hampshire, Rochester is a small city just a few miles from the Maine Border. It’s lovingly referred to as the Lilac City because in late spring and summer, gardens burst with purple blooms, and residents gather for the annual Lilac Family Fun Festival. “I think what draws people to Rochester is its practicality. It’s one of the more affordable areas with great housing options near the seacoast. It’s also an ideal commuter location,” says Ali Stewart, a Realtor with East Key Realty who grew up in nearby Madbury and Dover. “Rochester has a great sense of community with strong performing arts programs. The city has done a lot to revitalize downtown, and there are new neighborhoods and developments creating more housing.” With a population of roughly 33,000 and growing, the city’s efforts to build new housing are vital for maintaining lifelong locals.
Rochester features a vibrant arts scene.
New architecture blends with the old in Rochester.
Rochester attracts younger residences, contributing to its future growth.
The Salmon Falls River offers a picturesque backdrop to Rochester's border.
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Rochester Commons events and bimonthly exhibitions at the RMFA
Locals can take a walk around the loop at Rochester Common in the center of town. Rochester Common is also home to many city-wide events, such as the 4th of July festival and the Rochester Fair, which has been an annual tradition for over 120 years. The Lilac Family Fun Festival takes place in July at the James W. Foley Memorial Community Center. It's an evening gathering with carnival rides, performances by local artists and a fireworks show.
The Rochester Country Club golf course has both indoor and outdoor golfing options for year-round play. Other residents kayak on nearby rivers and ponds, play disc golf, hike the area’s forested trails or spend time at the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts at the community center. “We host regional artists in all levels of their career, from their first-ever solo show to their 1,000th show,” says Amy Marie Regan, organizer and volunteer at the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts. “We have a collection with around 250 permanent pieces of artwork.” These free exhibitions help residents get involved with the community and meet artists from all over.
Keep your golf game going throughout the Winter at the Rochester Country Club.
Rochester Common makes up the heart of Rochester.
The Rochester Museum of Fine Arts is an all-volunteer initiative.
The Rochester Performance and Art Center serves as a vital community gathering place.
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New housing developments, condos and townhouses
Though New Hampshire is known for its lack of sales and income taxes, property taxes are some of the highest in the country. The median single-family home price in Rochester is just over $400,000, which is lower than nearby cities that are closer to the shoreline. New developments in the city – such as single-family neighborhoods and modern townhouses – have increased units, which is important for bringing in new residents. “Rochester was the fourth highest municipality in New Hampshire for new permitted units in 2022, with 287. New Hampshire needs more housing, and Rochester’s development is definitely a product of that need,” Stewart says. Though new homes are being built, many downtown residences date back to the late 1700s and 1800s. Units in condo or townhouse communities can cost between $175,000 and $450,000.
Modern Townhouses make up a growing part of housing in Rochester.
This style of home seamlessly blends with the character of Rochester.
This duplex style adds a touch of distinctive character to the Rochester streetscape.
Like a hidden gem, this bungalow is tucked away in a quiet corner of Rochester.
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Rochester School District public school options
Rochester School District is graded an overall C on Niche. Though the area has several elementary schools, Rochester Middle School, Bud Carlson Academy, and Spaulding High School accommodate the population’s sixth through 12th graders. Most schools score a C-minus rating on Niche.
Spaulding High School is a public, co-educational school in Strafford County.
East Rochester School is a public elementary school in Strafford County.
Rochester Middle School is a public school in Strafford County.
McClelland Elementary School is a public school in Strafford County for grades K-5.
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A growing downtown and locally owned restaurants
Rochester’s growth in recent years has made it less of a pass-through space and more of a destination for locals and visitors alike. “It’s been really fun to watch the city of Rochester change in the last 10 or so years. There’s been a lot of investment downtown, new housing has gone up, and new businesses have come in,” Regan says. “It’s definitely a lovely, working-class city. A lot of the city’s tenets surround volunteering and supporting one another.” Locally owned restaurants and national chains create a well-rounded shopping and dining experience. A few favorites include Revolution Taproom for its craft pours, Fallen Leaf Bistro for its eggs benedict, and My Cielo, which is known for its margaritas. Evening shows and concerts at the Rochester Opera House often draw diners into the city. North Main Street has national brand stores like Hannaford and The Home Depot.
The Rochester opera House presents a diverse array of performances every year.
Rochester has a Home Depot for the DYI enthusiasts.
Indulge your senses at the Potter's House Bakery and Cafe, a delectable haven in Rochester.
Planet Fitness is a popular gym in Rochester.
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Commutes to Manchester and weekends in the White Mountains
State Route 16 passes through the city, connecting drivers to Portsmouth, about 22 miles southeast. Considered one of New Hampshire’s prettiest cities, Portsmouth has a vibrant nightlife and nearby beaches on the coastline. Route 16 also leads north to the White Mountains, a popular skiing destination just over 80 miles away. Concord, the state capital, is about 40 miles west via Route 126.
Crime and Rochester traffic
According to the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, in 2023, violent crime was slightly higher than the national and state averages, while property crime rates were similar to the national average. The city is relatively quiet, though traffic along the Spaulding Turnpike contributes some noise. Buyers should be aware that the Cocheco River has been known to rise during heavy rains, which may lead to flooding.
Written By
Shelby Sullivan
Photography Contributed By
Jeff Tippett
Video By
Anne Sheridan
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Rochester, NH sell after 28 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Rochester, NH over the last 12 months is $400,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautiful Colonial Contemporary nestled on a quaint cul-de-sac, offering the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience. The inviting farmer’s porch provides the perfect place to unwind. Inside, the home features a spacious, sun-filled kitchen complete with a breakfast bar, new quartz countertops, and new appliances, making it ideal for both everyday living and entertaining.
Introducing Copps Landing: Rochester’s newest community of 23 single family homes, now taking reservations! Copps Landing homes each feature a thoughtfully designed layout including three bedrooms, three baths, spacious bonus room, home office, and two car garage. The living room is centered around a cozy gas fireplace, finished with hardwood flooring, and flows effortlessly into the open dining
Welcome Home to this 55+ much sought after Heath Brook Estates! This manufactured home boasts 4 rooms, 2 bedrooms, 1 full bath and shed on a quiet cul de sac. Open concept, light and bright with white plantation cabinets, SS appliances, granite countertops. Updated laminated flooring, (2022) new bath with wide walk in shower and vanity. 2022, new roof, kitchen, new bath, flooring, paint, windows,
Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home located in a desirable co-op park, offering a bright and inviting open-concept layout ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The spacious primary suite features a private bath, creating a comfortable retreat. Vaulted ceilings enhance the sense of space throughout the home, while skylights and ceiling fans provide abundant natural light and
Welcome to Ten Pines at Ten Rod Road, a desirable condo community offering truly low-maintenance living just minutes from shopping, dining, and major commuter routes. This move-in-ready, garden-style unit on Cape Coral Way features an open-concept layout with two spacious bedrooms and a full bath.The kitchen is beautifully appointed with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances,
Lawa-Na McClellanKW Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty
Welcome to Ten Pines at Ten Rod Road, a desirable condo community offering truly low-maintenance living just minutes from shopping, dining, and major commuter routes. This move-in-ready, garden-style unit on Cape Coral Way features an open-concept layout with two spacious bedrooms and a full bath.The kitchen is beautifully appointed with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances,
Lawa-Na McClellanKW Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty
Welcome to Cocheco River Estates, a 55+ community located conveniently near the Spaulding Turnpike, and The Ridge Marketplace, where you can shop, dine, and go to medical facilities. This well maintained manufactured home has an open concept living/dining, and kitchen space, with a bedroom and bathroom at each end of the home. There is a separate laundry room, and have your morning coffee on
Attention Builders and Developers! Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to purchase a FULLY APPROVED 10-lot subdivision in a highly desirable area of Rochester, NH! Situated on 16+ acres, this thoughtfully designed project offers a mix of lot sizes from 0.23 to 0.64 acres, appealing to a wide range of homebuyers. Strategically located on the south side of the city, the development offers quick
Erin ProulxKW Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty/Portsmouth
Highly sought-after waterfront quadplex on a large 1.62-acre lot in East Rochester, with the potential to subdivide a separate waterfront multifamily parcel. On the market for the first time in over 45 years, showcasing decades of prideful ownership. Small apartments no more, as the buildings massive 4500+ square feet of living space, gives units ideal layouts with spacious living/dining rooms,
Amazing opportunity to own this quaint 2 unit property! This property is comprised of two, separate and individual buildings that are situated on a nice, level lot in a gorgeous and quiet neighborhood of traditional homes. 5 minute walk to all things downtown, enjoy well manicured, private yard space and off street parking for 4 cars! This is a phenomenal opportunity for any buyer to occupy one
Zachary PappasKW Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty
Welcome to this beautiful Colonial Contemporary nestled on a quaint cul-de-sac, offering the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience. The inviting farmer’s porch provides the perfect place to unwind. Inside, the home features a spacious, sun-filled kitchen complete with a breakfast bar, new quartz countertops, and new appliances, making it ideal for both everyday living and entertaining.
Welcome to Fairway Village on the Green abutting the Rochester Country Club is a vibrant community featuring 12 renovated two-bedroom townhomes and 30 brand-new construction townhomes. Enjoy community access to the scenic Cocheco River, perfect for outdoor recreation and peaceful views. This newly renovated 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome offers a comfortable, modern lifestyle with an eat-in kitchen
Are you ready to break ground on a new home? This perfectly situated 0.29 acre level lot offers a rare opportunity to build a Single-Family home in a quiet, established Rochester neighborhood. Large building envelope with public water and sewer, and natural gas to tie in at the street. Location is close to schools, shopping, town and commuting roads. Whether you’re a builder or buyer with plans
Christina MarrsColdwell Banker Realty Portsmouth NH
MOTOVATED SELLER! PRICE REDUCED! AFFORDABLE MANUFACTURED HOME IN A 55+ COMMUNITY PRICED FOR A QUICK SALE. Welcome to your new home in the desirable 55+ Cocheco River Estates. This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom mobile home, built in 1995, offers 1,080 square feet of comfortable living space. Inside, you'll find an inviting eat-in kitchen with ample cabinet and counter space, perfect for sharing
Cash flow, upgrades, and awesome tenants—this three-unit property features a potential cap rate over 15%. Boasting large apartments totaling 3,508 square feet, there is also a top floor ready for a potential additional unit or expansion. Tour the units to experience updates throughout, including newer flooring, kitchens with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and in-unit washers and
Experience modern living at The Howard, perfectly situated on Main Street in the heart of Rochester's vibrant revitalization. These thoughtfully crafted residences feature spacious layouts bathed in natural light, complemented by sleek appliances and chic bathrooms, all within open-concept designs. Pet friendly building with dogwash station in the lobby.
Experience modern living at The Howard, perfectly situated on Main Street in the heart of Rochester's vibrant revitalization. These thoughtfully crafted residences feature spacious layouts bathed in natural light, complemented by sleek appliances and chic bathrooms, all within open-concept designs. Pet friendly building with dogwash station in the lobby.
Darlene Colwell-Ellis
KW Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty/Dover
(855) 490-5145
$2,950 - $3,450 per month
Bayberry Commons- 3 Bedroom 2.5 Bath Townhomes with 2 Car Garage
NEW CONSTRUCTION: Now leasing the first phase of Bayberry Commons, Rochester's newesttownhome community nestled in a wooded, residential area with close proximity to major routes. Eachtownhome features three bedrooms, three baths, two car garage, and private deck. The living space isan open flow layout, with a custom kitchen, spacious living room, and either an open dining area
Welcome to Woodland Green! Conveniently located just off Rt. 16, this beautifully updated townhouse offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The home features 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, a bright eat-in kitchen, and a private back deck ideal for quiet mornings or evening relaxation. New vinyl flooring throughout adds both charm and low-maintenance living, and the unit includes in-home
Come home to Clark Brook Apartments in Rochester, NH and discover open green spaces, comfortable one, two, and three bedroom homes, and inspiring on-site amenities . Features like central air conditioning and heat, large closets, and a private patio make spending time at home more enjoyable. When you want to make the most out of your day, head outside with your pet and take in the natural scenery
Gorgeous bright and sunny townhouse living at it's finest! Located in a nice development, this townhouse features 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, a bonus room in the basement and a great spacious layout. This is one of the largest townhouse condos in the area, at 1,496 SF! Glistening hardwood floors, and sparkling granite throughout, this townhouse gleams in each and every corner. You'll notice the recent
Introducing Highfield Commons, a modern and pet-friendly townhouse located in the heart of Rochester, NH. This spacious unit features off-street parking and a private garage for your convenience. Inside, you'll find stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a dishwasher for easy meal prep. Enjoy the comfort of central A/C and the convenience of a washer and dryer right in your unit.
Bonus -Receive $500 off first month's rent. Updated 2-Bedroom Apartment with Garage, Yard & Modern Finishes. Freshly renovated 2-bedroom apartment in a well-maintained duplex offering modern updates and a bright, open feel. The kitchen features white shaker cabinets, marble-style countertops, stainless steel appliances, and recessed lighting. New flooring and fresh paint run throughout the
Welcome to Half Peak Ledges!A new townhome community in a quiet residential area of Rochester with easy proximity to major routes. Spacious townhomes each featuring three bedrooms plus a home office, two and half baths, and two car garage for each unit. Open flow living area with hardwood flooring and high ceilings. Kitchen with painted cabinetry and ample storage, island seating area, stone
Now available! Brand-new construction three-bedroom apartment with 1.5 baths located at 3 Strafford Road, Rochester, NH 03867. Designed for modern living in an excellent commuting location with easy access to major routes. Features Include: New construction throughout, 3 spacious bedrooms, 1.5 baths, heat included, in-unit washer and dryer, shared deck- perfect for summer enjoyment! Commuter
Immediate move-in available. Pet friendly, accepting all rental vouchers.Discover comfort and convenience in this charming 3-bedroom unit located just minutes from downtown. Enjoy easy access to the highway, a small neighborhood playground nearby, and walking distance to shops, restaurants, and local amenities.The apartment offers street parking, a welcoming pet-friendly policy (breed
Now available! Brand-new construction three-bedroom apartment with 1.5 baths located at 3 Strafford Road, Rochester, NH 03867. Designed for modern living in an excellent commuting location with easy access to major routes. Features Include: New construction throughout, 3 spacious bedrooms, 1.5 baths, heat included, in-unit washer and dryer, shared deck- perfect for summer enjoyment! Commuter
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
