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

Rochester

New York
61
VS

Rockford

Illinois
57

Rochester is 7% more expensive than Rockford.

$1,039/mo ↑ 9%
Median Rent
$954/mo ↓ 8%
$46,628/yr ↓ 13%
Median Income
$53,328/yr ↑ 14%
$120,600 ≈ Same
Home Value
$120,900 ≈ Same
$1,009/mo ↑ 7%
Owner Costs
$947/mo ↓ 6%
209,720
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

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Rockford, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $85/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $1,020/year.

Median household income is $6,700/year higher in Rockford. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $120,900 in Rockford.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Rockford — common questions

Is Rochester 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 Rochester and Rockford?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Rockford it's $954/month — a difference of $85/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Rockford?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $53,328 in Rockford. Median household income is $6,700/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 Rochester or Rockford?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/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 Rochester details → View Rockford details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Rochester and Rockford

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