Cost of Living: Rockford, IL vs Denton, TX (2026)

Rockford

Illinois
57
VS

Denton

Texas
100

Rockford is 43% cheaper than Denton.

$954/mo ↓ 29%
Median Rent
$1,344/mo ↑ 41%
$53,328/yr ↓ 28%
Median Income
$73,719/yr ↑ 38%
$120,900 ↓ 63%
Home Value
$325,700 ↑ 169%
$947/mo ↓ 35%
Owner Costs
$1,461/mo ↑ 54%
147,649
Population
146,987

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
0%
6.25%
Sales Tax
6.25%
2.07%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rockford, IL and Denton, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 57 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $390/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $4,680/year.

Median household income is $20,391/year higher in Denton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rockford is $120,900 compared to $325,700 in Denton.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford vs Denton — common questions

Is Rockford or Denton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rockford and Denton?
Median rent in Rockford is $954/month and in Denton it's $1,344/month — a difference of $390/month.
Which city has higher income, Rockford or Denton?
Median household income is $53,328 in Rockford and $73,719 in Denton. Median household income is $20,391/year higher in Denton.
How do taxes compare between Illinois and Texas?
Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Rockford or Denton?
It depends on your priorities. Rockford has a cost index of 57 with median rent of $954/mo, while Denton has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,344/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rockford details → View Denton details →