Cost of Living: Rockford, IL vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Rockford

Illinois
57
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Rockford is 39% cheaper than Rochester.

$954/mo ↓ 28%
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ↑ 38%
$53,328/yr ↓ 39%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 65%
$120,900 ↓ 58%
Home Value
$287,500 ↑ 138%
$947/mo ↓ 29%
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ↑ 41%
147,649
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
9.85%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
2.07%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rockford, IL and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 57 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $362/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $4,344/year.

Median household income is $34,439/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rockford is $120,900 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Rockford slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford vs Rochester — common questions

Is Rockford or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 93 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rockford and Rochester?
Median rent in Rockford is $954/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $362/month.
Which city has higher income, Rockford or Rochester?
Median household income is $53,328 in Rockford and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $34,439/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between Illinois and Minnesota?
Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Rockford or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Rockford has a cost index of 57 with median rent of $954/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 93 with rent of $1,316/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rockford details → View Rochester details →

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