Cost of Living: Rockford, IL vs Independence, MO (2026)

Rockford

Illinois
57
VS

Independence

Missouri
67

Rockford is 15% cheaper than Independence.

$954/mo ↓ 10%
Median Rent
$1,061/mo ↑ 11%
$53,328/yr ↓ 10%
Median Income
$59,480/yr ↑ 12%
$120,900 ↓ 27%
Home Value
$166,400 ↑ 38%
$947/mo ↓ 9%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↑ 10%
147,649
Population
121,944

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
2.07%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rockford, IL and Independence, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 57 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $107/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $1,284/year.

Median household income is $6,152/year higher in Independence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rockford is $120,900 compared to $166,400 in Independence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford vs Independence — common questions

Is Rockford or Independence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rockford and Independence?
Median rent in Rockford is $954/month and in Independence it's $1,061/month — a difference of $107/month.
Which city has higher income, Rockford or Independence?
Median household income is $53,328 in Rockford and $59,480 in Independence. Median household income is $6,152/year higher in Independence.
How do taxes compare between Illinois and Missouri?
Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Rockford or Independence?
It depends on your priorities. Rockford has a cost index of 57 with median rent of $954/mo, while Independence has a cost index of 67 with rent of $1,061/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rockford details → View Independence details →

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