Observing Rochester's apartment market over time reveals a gradual shift in the focus of unit configurations. While studios and one-bedroom apartments were once predominant, the past few years have seen an increase in new constructions of two-bedroom units, providing more options.

First, studios are averaging between $950 and $1,030, with sizes around 430 to 470 square feet. This type is primarily sought after by young professionals or graduate students living alone near downtown. The rent is relatively low compared to other cities in New York State, making it manageable for first-time renters settling in Rochester.

One-bedroom apartments range from $1,250 to $1,400, with sizes between 620 and 680 square feet. Compared to studios, this adds about $300 for an additional room. With the rise of remote work, it seems that single renters or newlyweds are increasingly looking for this type.

Two-bedroom units are priced between $1,450 and $1,650, with sizes around 900 to 960 square feet. The main demand comes from roommates sharing the space or families with one child. Three-bedroom apartments range from $1,700 to $1,900, with sizes between 1,150 and 1,250 square feet, typically sought after by families with multiple children.

Looking at the supply trends, recent new developments have noticeably increased the proportion of two-bedroom units. Previously, downtown redevelopment focused on studios and one-bedrooms, but now there is a shift towards new two-bedroom constructions aimed at families in suburban areas. Conversely, three-bedroom units remain the most limited in supply.

Examining the rental gap, the price increases from studios to one-bedrooms and from one-bedrooms to two-bedrooms are relatively gradual, but there is a significant jump when moving from two-bedrooms to three-bedrooms. This phenomenon can be interpreted as a result of the scarcity of three-bedroom listings.

Key points to consider include: first, the recent supply trends for the desired unit type; second, whether downtown or suburban areas fit within the budget; and third, for families needing good school districts, prioritizing suburban areas where two-bedroom units are concentrated.

For Korean households, taking advantage of Rochester's overall lower rental burden could mean starting with a spacious two-bedroom from the beginning. However, if a three-bedroom is desired, it may be more realistic to wait patiently for listings to become available.

• Studio: approximately $950 to $1,030, 430 to 470 square feet
• One-bedroom: approximately $1,250 to $1,400, 620 to 680 square feet
• Two-bedroom: approximately $1,450 to $1,650, 900 to 960 square feet
• Three-bedroom: approximately $1,700 to $1,900, 1,150 to 1,250 square feet