📍 About RST & Rochester
Rochester International Airport (RST) serves the growing city of Rochester, Minnesota — home of the world-famous Mayo Clinic. It’s a clean, livable city with a strong healthcare economy, top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and four distinct seasons. A great choice for families and professionals alike.
🏡 Where to Live
Best for Singles & Couples
- Downtown Rochester – Urban feel, walkable to restaurants and Mayo Clinic.
- Slatterly Park – Affordable, artsy, close to trails and downtown.
- Kutzky Park – Historic homes, parks, great local vibe.
Best for Families
- Byron – Quiet suburb, top-rated schools, ~15 mins to RST.
- Southwest Rochester – Newer developments, good schools.
- Northwest Rochester – Safe neighborhoods, access to shopping and schools.
- Stewartville – Small-town feel, affordable housing, ~10 mins to RST.
🚗 Commute Times to RST
- 10–15 min: Downtown Rochester, Kutzky Park, Slatterly Park
- 15–20 min: Byron, NW Rochester, SW Rochester
- 10–12 min: Stewartville
🎓 Top School Districts
- Rochester Public Schools (ISD 535) – High-ranking academics
- Byron Public Schools – Smaller district, highly rated
- Stewartville Public Schools – Strong academics and athletics
- Lourdes Catholic Schools – K-12 private Catholic school system
🧳 Things to Do – Within 2 Hours
- Downtown Rochester: Vibrant restaurants, shops, and Mayo Clinic campus
- Silver Lake Park: Biking, paddleboats, and geese watching
- Quarry Hill Nature Center: Hiking, wildlife exhibits, and cave tours
- Twin Cities: Minneapolis-St. Paul ~1.5 hours north
- State Parks: Forestville/Mystery Cave, Whitewater State Park, all within driving distance
✈️ Nearby Airports
- RST: On-site – flights to ATL, ORD, MSP, and more via Delta and American
- MSP (Minneapolis–St. Paul): ~1.25 hrs – full-service major airport
💰 Cost of Living
- Median Home Price (Rochester): ~$320,000
- 1-Bedroom Rent: ~$950–$1,300/month
- Utilities: ~$170–$240/month
- State Income Tax: 5.35%–9.85%
- Sales Tax: 7.375%
☀️ Seasonal Weather
- Winter: Cold and snowy (highs in 20s, lows near 0°F)
- Spring: Cool and rainy, 40s–60s°F
- Summer: Pleasant, 70s–80s°F, some humidity
- Fall: Crisp and colorful, temps in 40s–60s°F
🚇 Public Transportation & Traffic
- RPT (Rochester Public Transit): Bus system across the city
- Driving: Efficient with limited traffic congestion
- Bike paths: Extensive network throughout the city
🏥 Healthcare & Urgent Care
- Mayo Clinic: World-renowned hospital and specialty care
- Olmsted Medical Center: Full-service hospital and clinics
- Urgent Care: Multiple walk-in options around the city
🫂 Social Life & Community
- Events: Thursdays on First & 3rd, SocialICE, Rochesterfest
- Nightlife: Craft breweries, local music, rooftop bars downtown
- Culture: Civic Theatre, Rochester Art Center, Honkers baseball
🍽️ Dining & Food Scene
- Top spots: Forager Brewery, Chester’s, Bleu Duck Kitchen
- International cuisine: Indian, Vietnamese, Thai, Mexican
- Farmers markets: Rochester Farmers Market year-round
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Low traffic tower with regional and occasional charter activity
- Nearby medical and cargo flights related to Mayo Clinic
- Weather operations: expect snow events and deicing procedures
📦 Moving Tips
- Winter tires or AWD are a plus for snowy months
- Work with movers early if arriving mid-summer (busy medical relocation season)
- Plenty of furnished short-term rentals near Mayo area for temporary housing
❓ FAQs
- Is Rochester safe?
Yes – one of the safest cities in Minnesota with low crime rates - Can I live without a car?
Possible downtown, but recommended to own one for full convenience - How is winter driving?
Manageable with snow tires; roads well-maintained during storms