I also live in Rochester, actually Fairport but I work downtown.
Positives:
If you plan on raising a family - great schools - much better than the schools in NC
Commute - I live 15 miles from downtown and it takes me less than 20 minutes to get to work
Cost of living is fair
Becasue property taxes are high, housing is very affordable. $150-$180 will get you a very nice home. $300K will get you an estate.
Negatives
Weather - this winter was pretty bad
Taxes - problem all through New York State. It has to change or there will be no one left to tax
How old are you? Are you single?
East End and Park Ave is great. Very favorable single girl to guy ratio.
I am biased like Matty T. To counter what Fez said, if you are an engineer, accountant, healthcare or in finance you would not have problem finding work. Good amount of high tech and young optical / biotech companies.
Feel free to PM me with questions. I will even give you my phone number if you would rather talk live.