Illinois · Population 147,649 · Updated March 2026
How far your income goes in Rockford
State-level tax rates that affect your costs
Rockford is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 57 (where 100 equals the national median), Rockford residents can expect to pay median rent of $954/month while earning a median household income of $53,328/year.
The median home value in Rockford, IL is $120,900, with typical monthly owner costs around $947 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 21.5% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.
Illinois has a moderate income tax rate of 4.95%. Combined with a 6.25% sales tax rate and 2.07% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Rockford.
Common questions about living costs in Rockford
Similar-sized cities to compare
Compare the cost of living in Rockford, IL with 299 other major U.S. cities