Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Rockford, IL (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico
80
VS

Rockford

Illinois
57

Albuquerque is 23% more expensive than Rockford.

$1,085/mo ↑ 14%
Median Rent
$954/mo ↓ 12%
$65,604/yr ↑ 23%
Median Income
$53,328/yr ↓ 19%
$266,700 ↑ 121%
Home Value
$120,900 ↓ 55%
$1,149/mo ↑ 21%
Owner Costs
$947/mo ↓ 18%
562,488
Population
147,649

Tax Comparison

5.9%
Income Tax
4.95%
5.0%
Sales Tax
6.25%
0.67%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

19.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Rockford, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $131/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $1,572/year.

Median household income is $12,276/year higher in Albuquerque. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $120,900 in Rockford.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Rockford slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Rockford — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Rockford cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 80 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Rockford?
Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Rockford it's $954/month — a difference of $131/month.
Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Rockford?
Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $53,328 in Rockford. Median household income is $12,276/year higher in Albuquerque.
How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Illinois?
New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Albuquerque or Rockford?
It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Rockford has a cost index of 57 with rent of $954/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Albuquerque details → View Rockford details →