Cost of Living: Rockford, IL vs Norman, OK (2026)

Rockford

Illinois
57
VS

Norman

Oklahoma
76

Rockford is 25% cheaper than Norman.

$954/mo ↓ 10%
Median Rent
$1,064/mo ↑ 12%
$53,328/yr ↓ 18%
Median Income
$65,060/yr ↑ 22%
$120,900 ↓ 49%
Home Value
$239,300 ↑ 98%
$947/mo ↓ 16%
Owner Costs
$1,121/mo ↑ 18%
147,649
Population
128,714

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
4.75%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
4.5%
2.07%
Property Tax
0.9%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rockford, IL and Norman, OK, the overall cost of living indices are 57 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $110/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $1,320/year.

Median household income is $11,732/year higher in Norman. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rockford is $120,900 compared to $239,300 in Norman.

Oklahoma has a lower income tax rate, making Norman slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford vs Norman — common questions

Is Rockford or Norman cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 76 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rockford and Norman?
Median rent in Rockford is $954/month and in Norman it's $1,064/month — a difference of $110/month.
Which city has higher income, Rockford or Norman?
Median household income is $53,328 in Rockford and $65,060 in Norman. Median household income is $11,732/year higher in Norman.
How do taxes compare between Illinois and Oklahoma?
Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax.
Should I move to Rockford or Norman?
It depends on your priorities. Rockford has a cost index of 57 with median rent of $954/mo, while Norman has a cost index of 76 with rent of $1,064/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rockford details → View Norman details →

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