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

Rockford

Illinois
57
VS

Midland

Texas
99

Rockford is 42% cheaper than Midland.

$954/mo ↓ 32%
Median Rent
$1,407/mo ↑ 47%
$53,328/yr ↓ 42%
Median Income
$91,169/yr ↑ 71%
$120,900 ↓ 60%
Home Value
$298,600 ↑ 147%
$947/mo ↓ 35%
Owner Costs
$1,468/mo ↑ 55%
147,649
Population
133,998

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rockford, IL and Midland, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 57 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $453/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $5,436/year.

Median household income is $37,841/year higher in Midland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rockford is $120,900 compared to $298,600 in Midland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford vs Midland — common questions

Is Rockford or Midland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 99 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rockford and Midland?
Median rent in Rockford is $954/month and in Midland it's $1,407/month — a difference of $453/month.
Which city has higher income, Rockford or Midland?
Median household income is $53,328 in Rockford and $91,169 in Midland. Median household income is $37,841/year higher in Midland.
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 Midland?
It depends on your priorities. Rockford has a cost index of 57 with median rent of $954/mo, while Midland has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,407/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rockford details → View Midland details →

More Comparisons

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