Cost of Living: Rockford, IL vs Brandon, FL (2026)

Rockford

Illinois
57
VS

Brandon

Florida
108

Rockford is 47% cheaper than Brandon.

$954/mo ↓ 44%
Median Rent
$1,691/mo ↑ 77%
$53,328/yr ↓ 31%
Median Income
$77,068/yr ↑ 45%
$120,900 ↓ 59%
Home Value
$293,800 ↑ 143%
$947/mo ↓ 39%
Owner Costs
$1,546/mo ↑ 63%
147,649
Population
116,365

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
0%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
2.07%
Property Tax
0.86%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rockford, IL and Brandon, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 57 and 108 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $737/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $8,844/year.

Median household income is $23,740/year higher in Brandon. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rockford is $120,900 compared to $293,800 in Brandon.

Florida has no state income tax, giving Brandon residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford vs Brandon — common questions

Is Rockford or Brandon cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 108 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rockford and Brandon?
Median rent in Rockford is $954/month and in Brandon it's $1,691/month — a difference of $737/month.
Which city has higher income, Rockford or Brandon?
Median household income is $53,328 in Rockford and $77,068 in Brandon. Median household income is $23,740/year higher in Brandon.
How do taxes compare between Illinois and Florida?
Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.
Should I move to Rockford or Brandon?
It depends on your priorities. Rockford has a cost index of 57 with median rent of $954/mo, while Brandon has a cost index of 108 with rent of $1,691/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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More Comparisons

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