Cost of Living: Buffalo, NY vs Rockford, IL (2026)

Buffalo

New York
61
VS

Rockford

Illinois
57

Buffalo is 7% more expensive than Rockford.

$989/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$954/mo ↓ 4%
$48,050/yr ↓ 10%
Median Income
$53,328/yr ↑ 11%
$152,300 ↑ 26%
Home Value
$120,900 ↓ 21%
$929/mo ↓ 2%
Owner Costs
$947/mo ↑ 2%
276,397
Population
147,649

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
4.95%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.62%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

24.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Buffalo, NY and Rockford, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $5,278/year higher in Rockford. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Buffalo is $152,300 compared to $120,900 in Rockford.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo vs Rockford — common questions

Is Buffalo or Rockford cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 61 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Buffalo and Rockford?
Median rent in Buffalo is $989/month and in Rockford it's $954/month — a difference of $35/month.
Which city has higher income, Buffalo or Rockford?
Median household income is $48,050 in Buffalo and $53,328 in Rockford. Median household income is $5,278/year higher in Rockford.
How do taxes compare between New York and Illinois?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Buffalo or Rockford?
It depends on your priorities. Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $989/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 Buffalo details → View Rockford details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Buffalo and Rockford

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