Rochester Skyscrapers: The Tallest Buildings in the City
The skyline of Rochester is defined by a blend of historic landmarks and modern architectural achievements. From the early 20th-century industrial towers to contemporary mixed-use developments, the city's tallest structures reflect its evolution as a hub of commerce and innovation in Upstate New York.
To determine the ranking of these skyscrapers, standard height measurements are used. This methodology includes spires (tapering structures atop a building) and architectural details, though it excludes antenna masts. For a building to be included in this list, it must stand at least 200 feet (61 meters) tall.
Key Facts
- Innovation Square is the tallest building in Rochester, reaching 443 feet.
- Kodak Tower held the title of the tallest building in Upstate New York from 1914 to 1925.
- Innovation Square is the third tallest building in the state of New York outside of New York City.
- The city's tallest structures range from single-story architectural feats like Saint Michael's Church to 30-story office towers.
The Giants of the Rochester Skyline
At the top of the list is Innovation Square. Completed in 1968 and formerly known as the Xerox Tower, it stands at 443 feet (135 meters) with 30 floors. Its significance extends beyond the city, as it ranks as the third tallest building in New York outside of New York City.
Following closely is Legacy Tower, which reaches 401 feet (122 meters). Formerly known as Bausch & Lomb Place, it is worth noting that its height advantage over the third-ranked building is primarily due to its spire.
The Metropolitan, standing at 392 feet (119 meters), was completed in 1973. Originally known as the Chase Tower, the building has since been renamed and partially converted into residential units to meet modern urban needs.
One of the most historic structures is the Kodak Tower. Built in 1914 and expanded in 1930 to reach 19 stories, it stands 360 feet (110 meters) tall. For over a decade, it was the tallest building in all of Upstate New York.
Mid-Sized Skyscrapers and Architectural Landmarks
Beyond the top four, Rochester features several prominent buildings that contribute to its urban density. First Federal Plaza (309 ft) and Five Star Bank Plaza (284 ft)—formerly One HSBC Plaza—both stand at 21 stories.
The city also integrates hospitality and residential living into its heights. The Hyatt Regency Hotel reaches 271 feet, while the Andrews Terrace Apartments stand at 269 feet.
Interestingly, the list includes Saint Michael's Church. Despite being a single-story structure, its architectural height reaches 256 feet (78 meters), making it one of the tallest points in the city since its completion in 1890.
Other notable mentions include Tower 280, which was once part of the Midtown Plaza and was refitted in 2015 for office and residential use, and the Eastman School of Music Student Living Center, which stands at 213 feet.
Rochester Building Height Summary
| Rank | Name | Height (ft/m) | Floors | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Innovation Square | 443 / 135 | 30 | 1968 |
| 2 | Legacy Tower | 401 / 122 | 20 | 1995 |
| 3 | The Metropolitan | 392 / 119 | 27 | 1973 |
| 4 | Kodak Tower | 360 / 110 | 19 | 1914 |
| 5 | First Federal Plaza | 309 / 94 | 21 | 1976 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tallest building in Rochester?
The tallest building is Innovation Square, which stands at 443 feet (135 meters) and has 30 floors.
Which building was the tallest in Upstate New York in the early 20th century?
Kodak Tower was the tallest building in Upstate New York from 1914 until 1925.
Does the height of Legacy Tower include its spire?
Yes, Legacy Tower's height of 401 feet includes its spire, which is the primary reason it ranks higher than The Metropolitan.
What is the shortest building included in the skyscraper list?
The Clinton Square Building is the shortest on the list, meeting the minimum height requirement at exactly 200 feet (61 meters).
Are residential buildings included in these rankings?
Yes, several residential or mixed-use buildings are included, such as the Andrews Terrace Apartments, Midtown Manor Apartments, and Seneca Towers Apartments.