Crime and Pollution in Rochester

The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Rochester are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 16 user contributions.

This comprehensive approach helps provide a balanced view of the city's crime rates, environmental concerns, air quality, and public safety. By aggregating information from government reports, environmental studies, and direct feedback from residents, we aim offer an up-to-date and thorough analysis of key factors impacting quality of life in Rochester.

Crime Data in Rochester

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Rochester, Minnesota, presents a picture of moderate safety and crime concerns. The city exhibits a moderate crime index that indicates room for improvement, yet also efforts that maintain public safety.

Established community trust and safety perceptions during daylight show residents generally feel secure, although nighttime safety perceptions are less certain.

Some notable concerns include:
  • Property CrimesProperty crimes remain a persistent worry for Rochester residents, including concerns about thefts and break-ins. These issues underscore the need for enhanced security measures and vigilance in affected neighborhoods.
  • Drug-Related IssuesThere is a noticeable apprehension regarding drug-related activities in Rochester, which hints at underlying social challenges that may require comprehensive community and law enforcement strategies to address.
  • Violent CrimesThe perception of violent crimes is generally low among residents, indicating a relatively peaceful communal environment with isolated incidents impacting public apprehensions.
  • Public SafetyDuring daylight hours, Rochester is considered notably safe, with many residents enjoying a sense of security in their daily activities. This contrasts with a moderate level of concern when it comes to nighttime activities, suggesting a need for improved nighttime safety initiatives.
Crime Trends and Safety
  • Rising Crime ConcernsA significant concern is the perception that crime is on the rise. This belief is fueled by certain trends, particularly in property crimes and drug issues, that resonate strongly with residents.
  • Specific FearsSpecific fears in Rochester are largely centered around theft and drug issues, rather than violent crimes. Ethnic, racial, or religious-based victimization fears appear minimal, indicating a generally inclusive community environment.
Worldwide
United States

Crime Rankings

The crime ranking by city for the United States is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.
Highest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025
Full Crime Rankings

Pollution Data in Rochester

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Rochester's pollution levels in 2024 suggest a balanced environment with manageable air quality issues. While pollution exists, the city's air quality remains commendable due to effective policies mitigating urban and industrial emissions.

The community experiences good air quality ratings, though the impact of particulate matter remains a longer-term consideration for health and environmental stakeholders.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)PM2.5 levels in Rochester are within acceptable ranges, posing minimal threat to public health but still warranting attention to maintain these standards.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)Similarly, PM10 levels contribute moderately to pollution but are managed within levels generally regarded as acceptable and less likely to impact daily life adversely.
Waste and Noise Pollution

Rochester faces challenges with waste management and noise pollution, particularly in bustling areas where urban growth tests the city’s infrastructural capabilities.

Garbage disposal dissatisfaction points to an urgent need for improved systems to handle urban waste efficiently.

  • Garbage Disposal SatisfactionDiscontent with garbage disposal services is high, with significant portions of the population perceiving inefficiencies that affect neighborhood cleanliness.
  • Noise and Light PollutionNoise and light pollution are observed as moderate concerns, with traffic and local activities contributing to these sensory intrusions.
Green Spaces and Water Quality

Despite some environmental concerns, Rochester boasts enviable green spaces that are valued by its residents for providing relief and recreation.

Drinking water quality presents a mixed picture, with some residents raising concerns over accessibility and quality which require governmental attention.

  • Green and Parks QualityWhile there are concerns over the maintenance quality of parks, the existence of these green spaces is a major benefit, promoting ecological balance and community well-being.
  • Drinking Water QualityWater quality and accessibility have raised local conversations, suggesting areas for improvement in ensuring clean, safe water for all residents.
Worldwide
United States

Pollution Rankings

The pollution ranking for the United States is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.
Hightest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025
Full Pollution Rankings