Rochester, WA
Population 6,025 · Washington
About Rochester, WA
Rochester is a small town located in Washington with a population of 6,025 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $94,754 per year, which is 26% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.3 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Rochester features a median home value of $391,600, which is 60% above the national median of $244,900. This places Rochester in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,182, 2% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,042 total housing units, 87% are owner-occupied (1,767 units) and 13% are renter-occupied (275 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Rochester shows an unemployment rate of 1.1%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Rochester have an average one-way commute time of 31.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.0% of Rochester residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 18.0% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.8% Asian residents, with 8.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Rochester Ranks in Washington
Cost of Living in Rochester, WA
Compared to national averages, Rochester has a median household income of $94,754 (26% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $391,600, which is 60% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,182 is 2% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Rochester's income is 4% above the state average of $90,795, and home values are 15% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Rochester, WA?
Rochester offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $94,754, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.1%.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $391,600. However, Rochester’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Rochester has a population of 6,025 with a median age of 43.3 years. Compare Rochester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Rochester
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester | 6,018 | $108,242 | $464,500 | Compare |
| Hockinson | 5,993 | $132,083 | $661,900 | Compare |
| North Fort Lewis | 5,990 | $72,778 | $0 | Compare |
| Blaine | 5,982 | $81,559 | $500,600 | Compare |
| Country Homes | 5,979 | $78,841 | $386,500 | Compare |
| Bangor Base | 5,931 | $84,485 | $0 | Compare |
| Prosser | 6,213 | $66,406 | $269,300 | Compare |
| Sultan | 5,770 | $85,278 | $455,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Washington
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Rochester With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Rochester
What is the population of Rochester, WA?
The population of Rochester, WA is 6,025 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Washington.
What is the median household income in Rochester?
The median household income in Rochester, WA is $94,754 per year, which is 26% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Rochester?
The median home value in Rochester, WA is $391,600, which is 60% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Rochester?
The median monthly rent in Rochester, WA is $1,182, which is 2% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Rochester?
The unemployment rate in Rochester, WA is 1.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Rochester, WA a good place to live?
Rochester offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 6,025 and a median age of 43.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Rochester, WA?
15.0% of residents in Rochester aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Rochester?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Rochester, WA: median home value is $391,600 (60% above national), median rent is $1,182/month, and median household income is $94,754. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.1x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Rochester?
The poverty rate in Rochester, WA is 14.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Rochester, WA?
Rochester's population is 18.0% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.8% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 8.9% of residents are foreign-born.