Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Rockford, IL (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Rockford

Illinois
57

Philadelphia is 49% more expensive than Rockford.

$1,323/mo ↑ 39%
Median Rent
$954/mo ↓ 28%
$60,698/yr ↑ 14%
Median Income
$53,328/yr ↓ 12%
$232,400 ↑ 92%
Home Value
$120,900 ↓ 48%
$1,233/mo ↑ 30%
Owner Costs
$947/mo ↓ 23%
1,582,432
Population
147,649

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.49%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Rockford, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $369/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $4,428/year.

Median household income is $7,370/year higher in Philadelphia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $120,900 in Rockford.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Rockford — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Rockford cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 85 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Rockford?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Rockford it's $954/month — a difference of $369/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Rockford?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $53,328 in Rockford. Median household income is $7,370/year higher in Philadelphia.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Illinois?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Rockford?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/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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