Brighton vs Pittsford vs Penfield vs Webster: Which Rochester Suburb is Best?

The Big Four Rochester Suburbs

Rochester buyers often narrow their search to these four suburbs - but they're not interchangeable. Here's the real breakdown.

Best for: Young professionals who want walkability and top schools

Median home price: ~$290,000

Property tax rate: 3.61% (14618), one of the highest in Monroe County

School district: Brighton CSD - consistently top-rated

Commute to downtown: 10-15 minutes

Brighton offers great schools and urban-adjacent living, but you'll pay for it in property taxes. On a $300K home, expect $10,800/year in taxes.

Best for: Families prioritizing top-ranked schools and community feel

Median home price: ~$380,000

Property tax rate: 2.59%

School district: Pittsford CSD - perennially top-ranked

Commute to downtown: 20-25 minutes

Pittsford has lower tax rates than Brighton but higher home prices. The Pittsford village area offers a charming main street.

Best for: Value seekers who want good schools without Brighton/Pittsford prices

Median home price: ~$240,000

Property tax rate: 2.37-2.42%

School district: Penfield CSD

Commute to downtown: 20-25 minutes

Penfield is often the best value in Monroe County - lower taxes than Brighton, good schools, and accessible home prices.

Best for: Families who want new construction and lake access

Median home price: ~$230,000

Property tax rate: 2.43%

School district: Webster CSD

Commute to downtown: 25-30 minutes

Webster offers new construction options and proximity to Lake Ontario. Slightly longer commute but strong community feel.

On a $250,000 home with 30-year ownership:

Suburb	Annual Tax	30-Year Tax Total	Home Value (3% appreciation)
Brighton	$9,025	$270,750	$606,814
Pittsford	$6,475	$194,250	$606,814
Penfield	$5,925	$177,750	$606,814
Webster	$6,075	$182,250	$606,814

Use our School District Compare tool to run your own numbers.