After experiencing a wildfire in Southern California in 2020, Jasmine Singer and his wife, Moore Reese, relocated to Rochester, New York, seeking a more stable climate and progressive policies on climate change. They chose Rochester over Ithaca and Geneva due to its reduced risk of extreme weather events like droughts and hurricanes, as well as its adequate water supply from nearby lakes. Other cities, such as Buffalo and Duluth, are also becoming popular for similar reasons.
While many move for climate-related concerns, factors like affordability and employment opportunities also influence relocation decisions. Rochester’s average temperature is about 50°F, and the city has adopted a goal to cut carbon emissions by 40% by 2030. Its initiatives include support for new homebuyers and expansion of renewable energy resources.
The population of Rochester is diversifying, particularly with significant growth in its Latino community, as families seek better opportunities post-natural disasters, such as Hurricanes Maria and Jorge. Despite the interest in climate-related migration, evidence of significant demographic shifts is still limited.
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