Rockford, IL
Population 147,649 · Illinois
About Rockford, IL
Rockford is a major city in Illinois with a population of 147,649 residents. The median household income is $53,328 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Rockford is 37.5 years.
Housing in Rockford has a median home value of $120,900 and median monthly rent of $954. Of the 68,027 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 33,093 owner-occupied and 28,388 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Rockford is 8.6% and the poverty rate is 21.9%. 23.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.2 minutes.
How Rockford Ranks in Illinois
Cost of Living in Rockford, IL
Compared to national averages, Rockford has a median household income of $53,328 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $120,900, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $954 is 18% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Rockford's income is 29% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 27% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Rockford, IL?
Rockford offers affordable housing with a median home value of $120,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $954/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,328) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Rockford provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Rockford has a population of 147,649 with a median age of 37.5 years. Compare Rockford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Rockford
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naperville | 149,424 | $150,937 | $509,900 | Compare |
| Joliet | 149,785 | $88,026 | $248,600 | Compare |
| Aurora | 179,867 | $90,109 | $260,400 | Compare |
| Elgin | 114,106 | $88,316 | $252,400 | Compare |
| Springfield | 113,714 | $65,537 | $155,200 | Compare |
| Peoria | 112,126 | $58,716 | $149,500 | Compare |
| Waukegan | 88,919 | $70,578 | $177,600 | Compare |
| Champaign | 88,822 | $57,544 | $199,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Illinois
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Rockford
What is the population of Rockford, IL?
The population of Rockford, IL is 147,649 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Rockford?
The median household income in Rockford, IL is $53,328 per year.
What is the median home value in Rockford?
The median home value in Rockford, IL is $120,900.
What is the average rent in Rockford?
The median monthly rent in Rockford, IL is $954.
What is the unemployment rate in Rockford?
The unemployment rate in Rockford, IL is 8.6%.