Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rockford, IL
Considering a move to Rockford, IL? With a population of about 146,000, Rockford offers affordable living—median home prices are just $121,000 and average rents around $930. Commutes are short at 22 minutes, and you’ll find major hospitals, colleges, and a variety of public and private school options. While the cost of living is low, be aware that crime rates are higher than national averages. Rockford is known for its diverse community, four-season climate with 56% sunny days, and accessible healthcare options—making it a practical choice for value-focused movers.
Demographics - Rockford, IL
Demographics - Rockford, IL
Rockford, Illinois is a diverse city of approximately 146,000 residents, with a median age of 38 and a balanced gender ratio. The population is primarily White (57%), with significant Black (20%) and Asian (4%) communities, and about 14% speak a language other than English at home. This mix contributes to a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere.
Population:
145,862
Density:
2,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.4
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
56.6%
Black:
20.2%
Asian:
3.7%
Others:
19.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rockford, IL?
Rockford boasts a very affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $121,000 and average rents near $930, well below the national average. Utility and transportation costs are also moderate, and the overall cost of living index is 81.2, making Rockford an attractive option for budget-conscious residents. State income taxes are flat at 4.95%, further supporting affordability.
Median House Value:
$121,000
Gross Rent:
$930
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$500
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.2
Grocery:
91.0
Housing:
51.5
Utilities:
94.5
Transportation:
98.7
Health Care:
99.2
Miscellaneous:
90.8
Crime
Is Rockford, IL a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Rockford are higher than the national average, with residents facing a 1 in 94 chance of experiencing a violent crime and property crime at 1 in 31. The city’s overall crime index is 4,280, so new residents should consider safety when choosing neighborhoods. Awareness and proactive measures can help mitigate these risks.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,066
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,214
Crime Index:
4,280
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 94
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Rockford, IL year-round?
Rockford experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 14°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. The area receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys around 56% sunny days, providing a mix of weather ideal for those who appreciate seasonal changes. Spring and fall offer mild, comfortable temperatures.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The typical Rockford household has a median income of $48,430, though the poverty rate is relatively high at 20%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is a brief 22 minutes. Public transportation usage is low, reflecting the city’s car-friendly layout.
Median Income:
$25,800
Household Income:
$48,430
Family Income:
$56,200
Per Capita Income:
$25,800
Income Male:
$33,600
Income Female:
$26,200
Poverty Rate:
20.1%
Non English Speakers:
13.5%
Rent:
$930
Unemployment Rate:
6.9%
Public Transport Usage:
1.4%
Commute Time:
21.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.9%
Bachelors or More:
21.7%
Education
How are the schools in Rockford, IL?
Rockford offers a range of educational opportunities, including large public high schools like Auburn and Rockford East, as well as private options such as Boylan Catholic High School. Higher education is accessible through local institutions like Rock Valley College and Rockford University, supporting both traditional and adult learners. The city’s schools serve a diverse student body with various academic and extracurricular programs.
Public Schools
Name:
Auburn High School
Street:
5110 Auburn St
Phone:
815-966-3300
Students:
1,700
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Rockford East High School
Street:
2929 Charles St
Phone:
815-229-2100
Students:
1,600
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.1
Private Schools
Name:
Boylan Catholic High School
Street:
4000 St. Francis Dr
Phone:
815-877-0531
Students:
1,000
Colleges
Name:
Rock Valley College
City:
Rockford
State:
IL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
7,900
Name:
Rockford University
City:
Rockford
State:
IL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Healthcare in Rockford is anchored by major hospitals like SwedishAmerican and OSF Saint Anthony, both offering comprehensive emergency and surgical services. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents and 91% health insurance coverage, locals have good access to medical care. The city’s healthcare index is 68.2, indicating reliable service for routine and emergency needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
SwedishAmerican Hospital
Address:
1401 E State St, Rockford, IL 61104
Phone:
(779) 696-4400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center
Address:
5666 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108
Phone:
(815) 226-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rockford, IL?
Rockford’s housing market is highly affordable, with median home prices at $121,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $930. About 54% of homes are owner-occupied, and the market has seen a modest appreciation rate of 5.2% over the past year. Rental vacancy rates are somewhat elevated, offering newcomers a range of options.
Median Home Price:
$121,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$930
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.2%
DMV Information
Rockford residents can access driver and vehicle services at the Illinois Secretary of State - Driver Services office, conveniently located on East State Street. The office provides full DMV services, and information is available online or by phone for easy appointment scheduling. Illinois state DMV processes are straightforward, supporting new and current residents alike.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State - Driver Services
Address:
3720 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61108
Phone:
1-800-252-8980
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.