Cost of Living in Rockford, IL
Population 147,649 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The Rockford cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $121,000, rents near $954 a month. A poverty rate near 22% adds context to the income figures — well above the US average, and worth factoring into any comparison with cities on the coasts or in the Rockies.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Rockford
The median home value in Rockford is $120,900 — 60% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $954/month, 27% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $53,328/year is 28% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 8.6%, above the national average of 4.8%. Illinois's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 8.7%. Overall, Rockford has a cost of living index of 53 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 47% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Rockford, IL?
Rockford has a cost index of 53 (100 = national average). It is 47% below the national average.
What is average rent in Rockford, IL?
The median gross rent in Rockford is $954 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Rockford?
The median home value in Rockford is $120,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Rockford?
The median household income in Rockford is $53,328 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Rockford, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Rockford is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Rockford, IL affordable?
Yes, Rockford is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 53 — about 47% below the US national average of 100.
Rockford at a Glance
- Population
- 147,649
- Median Income
- $53,328
- Home Value
- $120,900
- Median Rent
- $954/mo
- Unemployment
- 8.6%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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