Rochelle was officially incorporated in 1853, primarily developing as a stop along the Chicago and Galena Union Railroad, which later became part of the Chicago and North Western Railway system.

The city derived its name from the birthplace of its founder, Dr. J.H. Moore, who named it after his hometown of La Rochelle, France.

Situated in Ogle County, Illinois, Rochelle is strategically located approximately 75 miles west of Chicago at the intersection of Interstates 39 and 88, providing significant logistical advantages.

As of the 2020 census, Rochelle had a population of 9,805, reflecting a modest growth trend over the past few decades and maintaining a small-town atmosphere.

Known as "The Hub City," Rochelle is a vital transportation center due to its unique position at the crossing of two major Class I railroads, the BNSF Railway and the Union Pacific Railroad.

Its economy is strongly anchored in agriculture, food processing (with several large facilities), manufacturing, and logistics, leveraging its robust rail and highway infrastructure.

The Rochelle Railroad Park, an internationally recognized train-watching destination, features an elevated viewing platform, museum, and gift shop, attracting thousands of rail enthusiasts annually.

From its early days, Rochelle thrived as a central hub for the rich agricultural output of northern Illinois, processing and distributing grain, corn, and soybeans.

The annual Lincoln Highway Heritage Festival draws visitors to celebrate Rochelle’s significant position along America's first transcontinental highway, featuring classic cars, live music, and local vendors.

Rochelle played a crucial role along the historic Lincoln Highway, which passed directly through its downtown, facilitating early automobile travel and connecting communities across the nation.

The demographic profile of Rochelle has seen increasing diversity, with a growing Hispanic population contributing to the cultural fabric and local economy.

The city actively promotes economic development through its industrial parks, attracting new businesses and supporting existing ones, particularly in the manufacturing and distribution sectors.

Rochelle maintains a strong sense of community, evident in its well-maintained parks, local events, and active civic organizations that foster a high quality of life for its residents.

Surrounded by fertile farmland, Rochelle remains deeply connected to the agricultural industry, supporting a network of farms and related businesses essential to the region's food supply.

While not home to any UNESCO World Heritage Sites or directly impacting national politics, Rochelle holds regional significance as a major transportation nexus and agricultural center in Northern Illinois.