Rochester Hills, MIBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Nestled in the heart of Eastern Michigan just miles from Detroit is Rochester Hills, a picturesque community providing an idyllic setting for families thanks to an abundance of outdoor activities, cultural attractions and a thriving downtown.
Rochester Hills, MI, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Located 30 miles north of Detroit, Rochester Hills, MI, is considered a big city suburb — with a much calmer, safer and more outdoor-centric vibe. With a population of around 76,000, Rochester Hills is the 14th-largest city in Michigan. The low crime rate and the strength of the Avondale and Rochester Community School Districts make it a family-friendly town, and the majority of residents own their own homes. Medical care is also top notch, with many hospitals located near Rochester Hills. Add to that the endless variety of activities, and it’s no wonder that Rochester Hills is one of the best places to live in the U.S.
There is plenty to do there, no matter what your idea of fun might be. Watch a concert, show or sporting event at the Meadow Brook Amphitheatre. Play golf on one of several courses or soak in nature at one of the many parks. Take in some history at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm or at the old-timey water-powered Yates Cider Mill. Or find something you can’t live without at the Village of Rochester Hills, which is a 375,000-square-foot outdoor shopping district with a downtown-like feel.
Rochester Hills, MI Quality of Life LivScore
Rochester Hills, MI Top Categories
Health
Safety
Housing & Cost of Living
Rochester Hills ranks highest for health, safety and housing.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Rochester Hills, MI
You’ll enjoy all four seasons in Rochester Hills, with warm, pleasant summers and cold winters. The average highs and lows are 81°F and 60°F (summer) and 33°F and 18°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Rochester Hills is 33 inches, with January receiving the highest snowfall average.
The average annual rainfall in Rochester Hills is slightly below the national average at 32 inches, with May and June receiving the highest precipitation averages.
Rochester Hills averages 178 sunny days a year.
Rochester Hills has at least a dozen different parks, green spaces or trails, plus the outdoorsy Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm.
Rochester Hills Weather
178 days
Average Annual Sun
32 inches
Average Annual Rain
33 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Rochester Hills, MI
Kids love the splash pad at Brooklands Plaza in warmer months. There’s also a renowned public library with youth services and programs to keep the kids entertained year-round.
Located in a historic building right downtown, the Bizzy Buzz Artisan Market sells fun and one-of-a-kind art, gifts and food items, all handmade by 70 different local artists.
The menu at Kruse & Muer in the Village is filled with fresh and flavorful American fare, including salads, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, seafood and more. Gluten-free options are available.
Pappa Roti serves coffee, tea, smoothies, milkshakes and fresh-squeezed juices, and their signature fresh-baked buns with an array of toppings — from cookies to caramel sauce.
The Local and State Economy in Rochester Hills, MI
Automotive, technology and health care are the largest industries in the area. Because of the city’s proximity to Detroit and Michigan’s reputation for all things automotive, major companies like FCA US LLC, an American subsidiary of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, and Continental Automotive Systems, an automotive technology company, have a presence in the city.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Rochester Hills is 6%.
Yes, Michigan has a state income tax.
There are several top-tier providers in Rochester Hills and the greater Rochester area, including Beaumont Medical Center-Rochester Hills and Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital.
There are several colleges and universities in Rochester Hills, MI, including Oakland University and Rochester University.
Quick Facts About Rochester Hills, MI
- Median Household Income
- $100,853
- Median Home Value
- $334,020
- Average State Property Tax
- $2,551
- Total Population
- 76,113
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,141
- Average Commute
- 21.54 minutes
A low crime rate and strong schools make Rochester Hills one of the best places to live in the U.S. It also performed the best of any city in the safety category. Read more about Rochester Hills and also check out other good places to live in the Midwest. Another useful resource to choose your next community: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
