Cost of Living: Rockford, IL vs Peoria, IL (2026)

Rockford

Illinois
57
VS

Peoria

Illinois
61

Rockford is 7% cheaper than Peoria.

$954/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$951/mo ≈ Same
$53,328/yr ↓ 9%
Median Income
$58,716/yr ↑ 10%
$120,900 ↓ 19%
Home Value
$149,500 ↑ 24%
$947/mo ↓ 6%
Owner Costs
$1,007/mo ↑ 6%
147,649
Population
112,126

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rockford, IL and Peoria, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 57 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $5,388/year higher in Peoria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rockford is $120,900 compared to $149,500 in Peoria.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Illinois.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford vs Peoria — common questions

Is Rockford or Peoria cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 61 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rockford and Peoria?
Median rent in Rockford is $954/month and in Peoria it's $951/month — a difference of $3/month.
Which city has higher income, Rockford or Peoria?
Median household income is $53,328 in Rockford and $58,716 in Peoria. Median household income is $5,388/year higher in Peoria.
How do taxes compare between Illinois and Illinois?
Both cities are in Illinois and share the same state tax rates: 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Rockford or Peoria?
It depends on your priorities. Rockford has a cost index of 57 with median rent of $954/mo, while Peoria has a cost index of 61 with rent of $951/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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