Santa Ana, CA vs Rockford, IL: 163 vs 57

$1,975/mo ↑ 107%

Median Rent

$954/mo ↓ 52%

$88,354/yr ↑ 66%

Median Income

$53,328/yr ↓ 40%

$657,800 ↑ 444%

Home Value

$120,900 ↓ 82%

$1,965/mo ↑ 107%

Owner Costs

$947/mo ↓ 52%

311,639

Population

147,649

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Rockford, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,021/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $12,252/year.

Median household income is $35,026/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $120,900 in Rockford.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Rockford — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Rockford cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Rockford is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Rockford?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Rockford it's $954/month — a difference of $1,021/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Rockford?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $53,328 in Rockford. Median household income is $35,026/year higher in Santa Ana.

How do taxes compare between California and Illinois?

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

Should I move to Santa Ana or Rockford?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/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.

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

Santa Ana

Rockford

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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