Is Rockford expensive to live in?

Rockford is considered very affordable, with a cost index of 86 compared to the US average of 100. Living here costs about 14% less than the national average. The median monthly rent is $1,151, and the median household income is $53,328.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Rockford?

Using the standard 30% rent-to-income rule, you need at least $46,040/year to afford median rent in Rockford. The median household income is $53,328, giving a rent-to-income ratio of 26%. Financial experts recommend keeping rent below 30% of gross income.

What is the average rent in Rockford?

The median rent in Rockford is $1,151 per month. Housing costs score 66 against the national average of 100, meaning housing is 34% cheaper than the US average.

How does Rockford compare to the national average cost of living?

Rockford's overall cost index is 86 vs the national average of 100. Breaking it down: housing (66), food & groceries (85), transportation (82), utilities (79), and healthcare (89). Rockford is below average in most categories, making it a strong value destination.

Is Rockford, Illinois a good place to live?

Rockford has a population of 146,120 and a median household income of $53,328. With a cost index of 86, it offers strong affordability relative to the national average. The rent-to-income ratio is 26%, which is within healthy financial guidelines.

What are the cheapest cities near Rockford?

To find the most affordable cities near Rockford in Illinois, use the Livably city comparison tool or browse the Illinois state page. You can compare rent, cost index, income, and affordability side by side across all tracked cities.

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Illinois

Rockford

Monthly city intelligence across housing costs, tax load, and affordability signals to help you plan your next move with clearer numbers.

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Cost index: 86

Median rent: $1,151

Median income: $53,328

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About Rockford

Living in Rockford, Illinois

Rockford, Illinois is a growing city with a population of approximately 146,120. The overall cost of living index sits at 86, which is below the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses — housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare — are roughly 14% less expensive compared to the typical U.S. city.

Housing is the largest cost driver in Rockford. Median rent is $1,151 per month, while the median home price is $172,610. At a median household income of $53,328, rent consumes roughly 26% of gross income, which remains manageable relative to local incomes. The housing sub-index of 66 reflects well below-average housing expenses.

Beyond housing, healthcare is the most elevated non-shelter expense in Rockford with a sub-index of 89, while utilities is comparatively more affordable at 79. State-level taxes also shape the true cost of living: Illinois applies a 4.95% income tax rate, and property tax averages 1.73% of assessed home value. The combined sales tax rate is 8.83%. Local income tax may apply in some municipalities.

Over the past twelve months, the cost of living in Rockford has trended upward. Among the 5 tracked cities in Illinois, Rockford ranks #1 from most to least affordable. Whether you're evaluating a job offer, planning a relocation, or comparing salary purchasing power, these numbers give a grounded, data-backed view of what life in Rockford actually costs.

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