Cost of Living: Newport News, VA vs Rockford, IL (2026)

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Rockford

Illinois
57

Newport News is 53% more expensive than Rockford.

$1,285/mo ↑ 35%
Median Rent
$954/mo ↓ 26%
$66,718/yr ↑ 25%
Median Income
$53,328/yr ↓ 20%
$243,300 ↑ 101%
Home Value
$120,900 ↓ 50%
$1,328/mo ↑ 40%
Owner Costs
$947/mo ↓ 29%
184,774
Population
147,649

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
4.95%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.8%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

23.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Rockford, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $331/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $3,972/year.

Median household income is $13,390/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $120,900 in Rockford.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Rockford — common questions

Is Newport News or Rockford cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 87 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Rockford?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Rockford it's $954/month — a difference of $331/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Rockford?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $53,328 in Rockford. Median household income is $13,390/year higher in Newport News.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Illinois?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Newport News or Rockford?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/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 Newport News details → View Rockford details →

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