Whether you’re moving here for Mayo Clinic, a new opportunity, or just a fresh start, you’re going to love it here. MyRochesterGuide was created to help you feel at home faster — from learning about the best neighborhoods and schools to understanding what it really costs to buy vs. rent in our city.

I’m Matt Humphrey, a Rochester real estate advisor with Engel & Völkers, and I’ve helped hundreds of families make the move here. Explore the site, get to know the area, and reach out anytime — I’d be happy to be your local resource.

Rochester Relocation Services

Real Estate Advice

Buying, selling, and investing in Rochester.

A two-story house with gray siding, a steep blue metal roof, multiple gabled windows, and a large stone chimney, surrounded by a manicured lawn and tall palm trees under a blue sky.

Neighborhoods, things to do, golf courses, breweries, schools, and community life.

Local Insights

A scenic view of a golf course in the late afternoon or early evening with well-maintained green grass, sand bunkers, and a small water hazard, surrounded by trees and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Community Connections

Helping newcomers plug into the area and feel at home faster.

Multiple people stacking hands together in a show of unity, with various skin tones and wearing colorful sweaters and rings.

Your Questions, Answered

Rochester offers both great rental options and affordable homes for purchase — but in many cases, buying can actually cost less than renting.
Monthly mortgage payments on a $350,000 home (with a modest down payment) are often similar to or even lower than rent for a comparable property. Plus, homeowners build equity and benefit from steady appreciation — Rochester home values have risen around 3–4% per year over the last two decades.
If you plan to stay here more than two years, buying typically wins financially.

🏘️ Is it better to buy or rent in Rochester?

🏘️ What are your favorite neighborhoods in Rochester?

Every buyer is looking for something different, so it really depends on your lifestyle and priorities.
A lot of my clients who want new construction at an affordable price are drawn to Prairie Ridge in Northwest Rochester — it offers newer homes, quiet streets, and easy access to most parts of the city.
If you prefer established neighborhoods close to Mayo and downtown, Elton Hills is a great fit with its mature trees and central location.
Reach out and we can discuss your preferred price point and needs!

🏫 What school districts serve the Rochester area?

Yes. We supply sturdy boxes, reusable crates, and sustainable cushioning. During your consultation, let us know your preferences and we’ll tailor materials to align with your environmental goals.

What My Clients Say:

A group of eight friends sitting on a bench at the beach, facing the ocean, with mountains and cable cars in the background during sunset.

“Matt is amazing! He helped us purchase a house sight unseen and was very detail oriented throughout the whole process. Would definitely recommend!”

- Haley Brockway

I cannot recommend Matt enough! Not only was he super knowledgeable, but he was also very personable, which made my first time home buying process all the better. He was always available and answered all of my questions, even the silly ones! I would 100% go to Matt again as my realtor, especially because he took the time to get to know my partner and I, and he really seems to value our relationship. Thanks for everything, Matt!

- Katie Klauser

When searching for our forever home in Rochester - we struggled to find anything that met our needs. That was until we met Matt. He provided us options - most of them not even on the market yet - allowing us to get in front of any competitive situation. Matt was incredible to work with. We will definitely be using him again!

- Alex Drake

Questions?