Cost of Living: Rockford, IL vs Syracuse, NY (2026)

Rockford

Illinois

Syracuse

New York

Rockford and Syracuse have a similar cost of living.

$954/mo ↓ 4%

Median Rent

$998/mo ↑ 5%

$53,328/yr ↑ 16%

Median Income

$45,845/yr ↓ 14%

$120,900 ↓ 3%

Home Value

$125,100 ↑ 3%

$947/mo ↓ 3%

Owner Costs

$980/mo ↑ 3%

147,649

Population

146,211

Tax Comparison

4.95%

Income Tax

10.9%

6.25%

Sales Tax

4.0%

2.07%

Property Tax

1.62%

Affordability

21.5%

rent-to-income

Affordability

26.1%

rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rockford, IL and Syracuse, NY, the overall cost of living indices are 57 and 59 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $7,483/year higher in Rockford. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rockford is $120,900 compared to $125,100 in Syracuse.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford vs Syracuse — common questions

Is Rockford or Syracuse cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 59 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Rockford and Syracuse?

Median rent in Rockford is $954/month and in Syracuse it's $998/month — a difference of $44/month.

Which city has higher income, Rockford or Syracuse?

Median household income is $53,328 in Rockford and $45,845 in Syracuse. Median household income is $7,483/year higher in Rockford.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and New York?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax.

Should I move to Rockford or Syracuse?

It depends on your priorities. Rockford has a cost index of 57 with median rent of $954/mo, while Syracuse has a cost index of 59 with rent of $998/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.