$433,569Average Value$290Average Price per Sq Ft32Homes 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
Darlene Colwell-Ellis,
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 29 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 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 38 Vernon Avenue in Rochester, NH, a spacious 6-bedroom residence that offers an exceptional blend of size, versatility, and value. Designed to accommodate a variety of living arrangements, this property features a 3-car garage, owned solar panels for energy efficiency and potential long-term savings, a fenced backyard, and a new deck that extends the living space outdoors. Inside, the
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
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
Endless possibilities await with this exceptionally clean and well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home set on 7 level, pastoral, potentially sub-dividable acres at the end of a quiet dead-end street.The property offers a rare combination of residential comfort and functional versatility, featuring a stand-alone business/shop building with its own septic system, an oversized
This is a fantastic opportunity to unlock the full potential of a property with great bones and endless possibilities. With a little TLC and a creative vision, this home could truly shine.Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms and an open-concept layout that seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas, the home offers a desirable flow perfect for modern living. Recent upgrades include a
Updated and cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bath home located in the well-maintained Pine View Park. Open concept living and kitchen area w/ updated flooring and paint. The spacious U- shaped kitchen offers counter seating making meal time and entertaining easy. Down the hall you'll find a small bedroom with washer/dryer hookups, an updated 3/4 bath w/ step in shower and lastly, the main bedroom which features
This charming and beautifully updated 1988 doublewide manufactured home, located in a highly desirable cooperative mobile home park, is looking for a new owner. The spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a wonderful combination of comfort, craftsmanship, and outdoor living. Inside, you’ll find custom woodwork throughout and a thoughtfully renovated kitchen that adds modern style and functionality
Welcome to 38 Vernon Avenue in Rochester, NH, a spacious 6-bedroom residence that offers an exceptional blend of size, versatility, and value. Designed to accommodate a variety of living arrangements, this property features a 3-car garage, owned solar panels for energy efficiency and potential long-term savings, a fenced backyard, and a new deck that extends the living space outdoors. Inside, the
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
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 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
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,
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
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
Welcome to Briar Ridge in Rochester, NH! This well-kept 3-bedroom, 2-bath double-wide offers comfortable single-level living in one of the area’s most desirable manufactured home communities. You’ll love the bright, open lot and the spacious 10x28 screened porch, perfect for relaxing or entertaining outdoors without the bugs. The open-concept layout provides plenty of natural light, a large
Discover the perfect harmony of 19th-century soul and 21st-century luxury in this breathtaking one-bedroom.This residence captures the essence of historic Rochester with its stunning exposed brick walls and soaring cathedral ceilings that create an expansive, airy retreat. The space is bathed in natural light thanks to oversized windows, illuminating a thoughtful layout that balances industrial
Darlene Colwell-Ellis
KW Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty/Dover
(833) 429-0165
$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
Spacious and newly renovated 3-bedroom, 1-bath second-floor apartment with TWO bonus rooms—perfect for a home office, playroom, or additional living space! Features:• 3 Bedrooms + TWO Bonus Rooms, and 1 Full Bathroom• Recently Renovated Throughout• Brand-New Kitchen with Granite Countertops and Stainless Steel Appliances, including Dishwasher & Microwave!• New Woodgrain Laminate
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
Bright & Updated 2-Bedroom Apartment – Spacious, Convenient & Ready for You! Step into comfort in this recently updated 2-bedroom apartment located on the 2nd floor of a well-maintained building. Featuring brand new vinyl flooring throughout, this home offers a fresh, modern feel with plenty of space to spread out. Enjoy a large, eat-in kitchen – perfect for cooking, dining, and gathering –
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.
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
Welcome to The Rapids at Cocheco, a brand new residential community opening in 2025, offering affordable, modern living in the heart of Rochester. Overlooking the scenic Cocheco River, this thoughtfully designed development features 52 income restricted units, including spacious one and two bedroom floor plans tailored for today’s workforce.Enjoy the convenience of all utilities included,
Discover contemporary living at The Howard, conveniently located on Main Street in the heart of Rochester's revitalization. Our thoughtfully designed residences offer spacious layouts flooded with natural light, modern appliances, and stylish bathrooms within open-concept floor plans. Choose from a variety of floor plans, including 36 two-bedroom and 9 one-bedroom units, all poised to elevate
$1,950 per month
The Residences at Spaulding Place, Large 2 bed 1 bath modern apartment with W/D Hook ups.
Welcome to The Residences at Spaulding Place in Rochester, NH! Our spacious apartments feature stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher for your convenience. Enjoy the luxury of in-unit laundry hook ups and large bathrooms. With utilities included such as heat, hot water, trash removal, and water/sewer, you can relax knowing everything is taken care of. Our 24-hour emergency maintenance
Come check out "Gonic Estates Apartments" located at Brook Farm Village on 17 Indian Brook Circle in Rochester. NH! Units range from 1 -2 Bedrooms. Select units offer built-in A/C's & W/D Hookups. There is a laundry room located on the property. Pet-Friendly Community. Units also come with 2 off-street parking spaces!We also have 1 Bedroom Fully Furnished Units!Cats & Dogs Welcome - Pet
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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.
