Rockford, IL vs Santa Maria, CA: 57 vs 137

$954/mo ↓ 48%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 93%

$53,328/yr ↓ 37%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 59%

$120,900 ↓ 75%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 296%

$947/mo ↓ 47%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 89%

147,649

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rockford, IL and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 57 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $888/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $10,656/year.

Median household income is $31,289/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rockford is $120,900 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Rockford or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Rockford and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Rockford is $954/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $888/month.

Which city has higher income, Rockford or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $53,328 in Rockford and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $31,289/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and California?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Rockford or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Rockford has a cost index of 57 with median rent of $954/mo, while Santa Maria has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,842/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Rockford, IL vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Rockford

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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