Cost of Living: Rockford, IL vs Fargo, ND (2026)

Rockford

Illinois
57
VS

Fargo

North Dakota
73

Rockford is 22% cheaper than Fargo.

$954/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$916/mo ↓ 4%
$53,328/yr ↓ 19%
Median Income
$66,029/yr ↑ 24%
$120,900 ↓ 55%
Home Value
$269,800 ↑ 123%
$947/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$997/mo ↑ 5%
147,649
Population
129,064

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
2.5%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
5.0%
2.07%
Property Tax
0.98%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
16.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rockford, IL and Fargo, ND, the overall cost of living indices are 57 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $12,701/year higher in Fargo. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rockford is $120,900 compared to $269,800 in Fargo.

North Dakota has a lower income tax rate, making Fargo slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford vs Fargo — common questions

Is Rockford or Fargo cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 73 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rockford and Fargo?
Median rent in Rockford is $954/month and in Fargo it's $916/month — a difference of $38/month.
Which city has higher income, Rockford or Fargo?
Median household income is $53,328 in Rockford and $66,029 in Fargo. Median household income is $12,701/year higher in Fargo.
How do taxes compare between Illinois and North Dakota?
Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. North Dakota has 2.5% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.98% property tax.
Should I move to Rockford or Fargo?
It depends on your priorities. Rockford has a cost index of 57 with median rent of $954/mo, while Fargo has a cost index of 73 with rent of $916/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rockford details → View Fargo details →

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