Home to approximately 3,600 residents,[2] the community is located 3 miles (5 km) east of Rochester proper, and is one of two villages (the other being Gonic) within city limits.

The area was a farming community which developed into a small textile and shoe manufacturing mill town during the Industrial Revolution.

Located near major routes and industrial centers, its small village ambience has attracted new residents, and several beautiful Victorian buildings have been restored.

East Rochester gets a good percentage of local business from just across the border in Lebanon, Maine.

Portland Street crosses Routes 202 and 11 at the center of East Rochester; on it are two churches and a small library.