Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs Rockford, IL (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina
71
VS

Rockford

Illinois
57

Winston-Salem is 25% more expensive than Rockford.

$1,033/mo ↑ 8%
Median Rent
$954/mo ↓ 8%
$57,673/yr ↑ 8%
Median Income
$53,328/yr ↓ 8%
$208,200 ↑ 72%
Home Value
$120,900 ↓ 42%
$1,040/mo ↑ 10%
Owner Costs
$947/mo ↓ 9%
250,887
Population
147,649

Tax Comparison

4.5%
Income Tax
4.95%
4.75%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.8%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

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

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Rockford, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $79/month cheaper in Rockford, saving renters about $948/year.

Median household income is $4,345/year higher in Winston-Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $120,900 in Rockford.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Winston-Salem slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Rockford — common questions

Is Winston-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 71 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Rockford?
Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Rockford it's $954/month — a difference of $79/month.
Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Rockford?
Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $53,328 in Rockford. Median household income is $4,345/year higher in Winston-Salem.
How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Illinois?
North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Winston-Salem or Rockford?
It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/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 Winston-Salem details → View Rockford details →

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