East Rochester

This cozy borough used to be called “Seldom Seen,” incorporated from the larger Rochester Township in the early 1900s. East Rochester's tiny community overlooks Pittsburgh’s Ohio River, where it bends toward the Ohio state line. Most residents are multigenerational and enjoy slow-paced living with growing city access. “It’s a colloquial community with family values,” says Jon Masuga, Realtor at JEM Realty and frequent local seller.

Simple 20th-century cottages with narrow layouts and covered porches line East Rochester’s rugged hillsides. Some of these timeworn streets are accompanied by sidewalks, routing residents on foot across the community. Properties here date back as far as the town’s early origins. “It’s one of the more affordable areas. It’s great for families on a budget,” Masuga says. Buyers can invest in the area for less than $100,000, which may buy a three-bedroom with a spacious yard. A $150,000 to $200,000 budget will secure a spot with more recent upgrades and charming features like original wood flooring and crown molding. With limited new development, inventory is consistently low in this compact community, and listings typically find new owners within a month on the market. “Properties move at a good pace here. It’s one of the areas that hasn’t decreased in value,” Masuga says.

Kids living in East Rochester can attend school within the Rochester Area School District, known for its racial and economic diversity. Many start learning at Rochester Area Elementary before continuing to Rochester Area Middle and High. Each school has a score of C-plus or higher on Niche and is conveniently within a 5-minute drive away from East Rochester residents. “Lots of kids walk, with the campuses so close,” Masuga says. Of the district’s 700-person student body, almost 85% receive a free or reduced lunch on school days. Buyers who are interested in exploring alternative education options will also find private and faith-based schools nearby.

It’s easy to enjoy the outdoors in this waterside town. Active East Rochester residents walk the 1.5-mile trip to Rochester Riverfront Park, with sidewalks lining the way. The grassy stop-off has a small playground for the kids and plenty of seating to relax and enjoy the water views. Bridgewater Crossing is immediately across the river, accessible by the Beaver Rochester Bridge. Locals visit to walk the looped trail or to drop a line in the water. It’s also the location of the annual Independence Day fireworks show.

The local website is a helpful resource for new East Rochester homeowners. The page is regularly updated by civic leadership and is chock-full of information about town ordinances, announcements and history. People who want to get involved can also explore the Beaver County site to peruse the full calendar of events. There are daily open mic nights, fundraisers and live music gatherings in this busy area. Big Knob Range is also 5 miles up the road, hosting the county fair, car shows and smaller family celebrations.

There’s a small shopping center in town where locals can pick up groceries at Shop ‘n Save or peruse Big Lots’ wide-ranging selection of housewares, electronics and discounted foods. Giant Eagle Supermarket is another mile west, flanked by a pharmacy, doctors’ offices and a Dollar General. The local restaurant, 1942 Tacos and Tequila has won the town over with spicy Mexican staples. East Rochester residents cross the bridge into Monaca for a wider selection of shopping and dining.

Residents here don’t need to leave town for a day at the office. Valley Health Systems is the county’s number one employer, followed closely by government offices and Walmart. Interstate 376 is the way in and out of the community, with an access point roughly 10 miles away. Downtown Pittsburgh is 30 miles south of East Rochester, a 45-minute ride without major traffic delays. Most residents are drivers, but the Beaver County Transit Authority buses have stops lining the main roads for locals who prefer a car-free commute. Pittsburgh International Airport marks the halfway point between home and the city – an easy ride for those planning long-distance travel. East Rochester offers small-town living and city connectivity at lower price points.

Written By

Caeleigh Griffin

Photography Contributed By

Jeffrey Muschar

Video By

Mark Barakat