The United States Census Bureau defines the Rochester, Minnesota Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) as an area consisting of five counties in southeast Minnesota, anchored by the city of Rochester. As of 2018, the US Census Bureau estimates that the Rochester metropolitan statistical area has a population of 221,587. The Rochester–Austin combined statistical area has a population of 259,813 as of 2018.

Counties

Communities

Cities

Townships

Demographics

As of the census of 2000, there were 163,618 people, 62,504 households, and 43,046 families residing within the MSA. The racial makeup of the MSA was 92.01% White, 2.09% African American, 0.25% Native American, 3.34% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 0.99% from other races, and 1.29% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.35% of the population. The median income for a household in the MSA was $46,957, and the median income for a family was $55,450. Males had a median income of $35,815 versus $26,738 for females. The per capita income for the MSA was $21,287.

Transportation

Highways

Interstate Highways

US Highways

Minnesota State Highways

Public Airports

Commercial

General Aviation

Government and politics

Federal Representation

All of the Rochester metropolitan area falls in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District, represented by Republican Brad Finstad.

State Senate Legislators

The following list shows the Rochester metropolitan area's representation in the Minnesota Senate: