[1] Rochester is a part of the South Coast region of Massachusetts which encompasses the cities and towns that surround Buzzards Bay (excluding the Elizabeth Islands, Bourne and Falmouth), Mount Hope Bay and the Sakonnet River.

Rochester was settled in 1679 on the lands called "Sippican" by the local Wampanoags, along the coast of Buzzards Bay.

The town originally thrived with the early shipbuilding and whaling trade in Mattapoisett Harbor.

The Mattapoisett and Sippican rivers flow through the town, emptying into Buzzards Bay.

The town is also the site of the Sippican Rod & Gun Club, near the Haskell Swamp Wildlife Management Area.

The town can also be accessed via Exits 31 (North Street, Mattapoisett) and 35 (Route 105, Marion) along Interstate 195.

A freight rail line operated by the Massachusetts Coastal Railroad passes through the northeastern corner of town.

[18] On the national level, Rochester is a part of Massachusetts's 9th congressional district, and is currently represented by William R. Keating.

The town's Highway Department is located near Varella Corner, and is responsible for snow removal and road upkeep.

The town operates Rochester Memorial School for kindergarten through sixth-grade students.

Both regional schools are located on Route 6 in Mattapoisett, just over the Marion town line.

The town's Thanksgiving Day football rival is Apponequet Regional High School, in Lakeville.

The curriculum includes shops such as welding, cosmetics, auto, wood work, and many more.