Photographers and artists are discovering what locals have known for years – Maplewood offers some of Rochester's most distinctive architecture at remarkably accessible prices. The neighborhood's proximity to the Seneca Park Zoo and Genesee River creates unexpected natural beauty in this urban setting. Converted carriage houses and attic apartments in Victorian homes provide unique living spaces with character absent from cookie-cutter developments. The monthly Maplewood Art Walk showcases local creativity, while the neighborhood's diverse population creates authentic community rather than curated hipster enclaves. When considering rental options, properties on the neighborhood's western edge provide slightly quicker access to downtown employment – a distinction worth noting for daily commuters.
Community pride energizes 19th Ward, where historic homes surrounding Genesee Valley Park create one of Rochester's most architecturally diverse neighborhoods. Residents enjoy the annual house tour showcasing historic properties and the neighborhood's proximity to the University of Rochester. Though winters bring significant snow requiring serious cold-weather adaptation, neighbors often share snow-clearing duties and look out for elderly residents. The area's well-established community association organizes regular events from summer festivals to holiday celebrations that foster connections beyond adjacent property lines.
Industrial heritage shapes Group 14621, where former manufacturing facilities now house artist studios and emerging creative businesses along the Genesee River. Residents enjoy affordable living spaces with industrial character and proximity to downtown Rochester. Though the area continues its post-industrial transition with varied block-by-block investment, the strong community organizations actively work to preserve neighborhood character while improving quality of life. Many properties feature surprisingly spacious interiors reflecting their former commercial purposes, creating unique living arrangements impossible in conventional residential buildings.
National study of renter’s satisfaction with their cities and states
Apartment List has released Rochester’s results from the third annual Apartment List Renter Satisfaction Survey. This survey, which drew on responses from over 45,000 renters nationwide, provides insight on what states and cities must do to meet the needs of the country’s 111 million renters.
"Rochester renters expressed general satisfaction with the city overall," according to Apartment List. "As with other cities in New York, weather and state and local taxes are a source of dissatisfaction for Rochester renters."
Key Findings in Rochester include the following:
For more information on the survey methodology and findings or to speak to one of our researchers, please contact our team at rentonomics@apartmentlist.com.