Cost of Living: Bridgeport, CT vs Rockford, IL (2026)

Bridgeport

Connecticut
94
VS

Rockford

Illinois
57

Bridgeport is 37% more expensive than Rockford.

$1,405/mo ↑ 47%
Median Rent
$954/mo ↓ 32%
$56,584/yr ↑ 6%
Median Income
$53,328/yr ↓ 6%
$252,400 ↑ 109%
Home Value
$120,900 ↓ 52%
$1,475/mo ↑ 56%
Owner Costs
$947/mo ↓ 36%
148,012
Population
147,649

Tax Comparison

6.99%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.35%
Sales Tax
6.25%
2.15%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

29.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Bridgeport, CT and Rockford, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 94 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $451/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $5,412/year.

Median household income is $3,256/year higher in Bridgeport. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Bridgeport is $252,400 compared to $120,900 in Rockford.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Bridgeport vs Rockford — common questions

Is Bridgeport or Rockford cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 94 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Bridgeport and Rockford?
Median rent in Bridgeport is $1,405/month and in Rockford it's $954/month — a difference of $451/month.
Which city has higher income, Bridgeport or Rockford?
Median household income is $56,584 in Bridgeport and $53,328 in Rockford. Median household income is $3,256/year higher in Bridgeport.
How do taxes compare between Connecticut and Illinois?
Connecticut has 6.99% income tax, 6.35% sales tax, and 2.15% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Bridgeport or Rockford?
It depends on your priorities. Bridgeport has a cost index of 94 with median rent of $1,405/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.
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