Cost of Living: Salem, OR vs Rockford, IL (2026)

Salem

Oregon
105
VS

Rockford

Illinois
57

Salem is 84% more expensive than Rockford.

$1,323/mo ↑ 39%
Median Rent
$954/mo ↓ 28%
$71,900/yr ↑ 35%
Median Income
$53,328/yr ↓ 26%
$382,400 ↑ 216%
Home Value
$120,900 ↓ 68%
$1,440/mo ↑ 52%
Owner Costs
$947/mo ↓ 34%
176,666
Population
147,649

Tax Comparison

9.9%
Income Tax
4.95%
0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.93%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

22.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Salem, OR and Rockford, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $369/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $4,428/year.

Median household income is $18,572/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Salem is $382,400 compared to $120,900 in Rockford.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Salem vs Rockford — common questions

Is Salem or Rockford cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 105 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Salem and Rockford?
Median rent in Salem is $1,323/month and in Rockford it's $954/month — a difference of $369/month.
Which city has higher income, Salem or Rockford?
Median household income is $71,900 in Salem and $53,328 in Rockford. Median household income is $18,572/year higher in Salem.
How do taxes compare between Oregon and Illinois?
Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Salem or Rockford?
It depends on your priorities. Salem has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Rockford has a cost index of 57 with rent of $954/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Salem details → View Rockford details →

More Comparisons

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