Cost of Living: Providence, RI vs Rockford, IL (2026)

Providence

Rhode Island
99
VS

Rockford

Illinois
57

Providence is 74% more expensive than Rockford.

$1,333/mo ↑ 40%
Median Rent
$954/mo ↓ 28%
$66,772/yr ↑ 25%
Median Income
$53,328/yr ↓ 20%
$322,800 ↑ 167%
Home Value
$120,900 ↓ 63%
$1,467/mo ↑ 55%
Owner Costs
$947/mo ↓ 35%
190,214
Population
147,649

Tax Comparison

5.99%
Income Tax
4.95%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.53%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

24.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Rockford, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $379/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $4,548/year.

Median household income is $13,444/year higher in Providence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $120,900 in Rockford.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Rockford — common questions

Is Providence or Rockford cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 99 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Providence and Rockford?
Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Rockford it's $954/month — a difference of $379/month.
Which city has higher income, Providence or Rockford?
Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $53,328 in Rockford. Median household income is $13,444/year higher in Providence.
How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and Illinois?
Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Providence or Rockford?
It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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 Providence details → View Rockford details →

More Comparisons

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