Rochester is a suburb of Detroit, Michigan in Oakland County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 10,467 at the 2000 census. The City of Rochester is bordered on the north, south, and west by the City of Rochester Hills. While most of Rochester is residential in nature, it is considered to be one of the communities which make up Automation Alley, a high-tech company corridor located along Interstate 75 in Oakland County. Rochester has great natural beauty due to the three waterways that surround the city, abundant green space of three parks, and two winding nature trails. Residents can enjoy fishing in the Clinton River or biking along the Paint Creek Trail.

The City of Rochester Hills is bordered on the north by Oakland Charter Township, the east by the City of Rochester and Shelby Township, the south by the City of Troy, and on the west by the City of Auburn Hills. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 85.3 km (32.9 mi). 85.1 km (32.8 mi) of it is land and 0.2 km (0.1 mi) of it (0.24%) is water.

Oakland Charter Township is borderd to the south by the City of Rochester Hills. According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 95.2 km (36.8 mi). 94.4 km (36.4 mi) of it is land and 0.9 km (0.3 mi) of it (0.92%) is water. The area is known for its many large elegant homes and beautiful rolling countryside. Located on the outskirts of Metro Detroit, much of the area is wooded and undeveloped, making it appealing for those looking for privacy. The rapper/actor Eminem has a large residence in Oakland Township. The area is also home to local athletes and business executives from Detroit and the metro area.