Cost of Living: Rockford, IL vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Rockford

Illinois
57
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Rockford is 53% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$954/mo ↓ 39%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 63%
$53,328/yr ↓ 34%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 52%
$120,900 ↓ 72%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 260%
$947/mo ↓ 42%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 73%
147,649
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
4.25%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
2.07%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rockford, IL and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 57 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $598/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $7,176/year.

Median household income is $27,761/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rockford is $120,900 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Ann Arbor slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Rockford or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rockford and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Rockford is $954/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $598/month.
Which city has higher income, Rockford or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $53,328 in Rockford and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $27,761/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between Illinois and Michigan?
Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Rockford or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Rockford has a cost index of 57 with median rent of $954/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rockford details → View Ann Arbor details →

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