Let the numbers do the talking.
Chicago, IL vs Rockford, IL
Chicago, IL vs Rockford, IL: What the data shows
Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL while Rockford, IL is in Rockford, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Rockford, IL is the more affordable option at $83,800 median — $311,200 less than Chicago, IL's $395,000. WYLT rates Chicago, IL as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Rockford, IL as “Hard pass” — a neighborhood WYLT does not recommend.
Chicago, IL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Chicago, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Rockford, IL has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Chicago, IL has Low flood risk and Rockford, IL has High flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Chicago, IL scores 59/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Rockford, IL's 12/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Chicago, IL rates 7/10 and Rockford, IL rates 6.6/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Hard pass |
| Median Price | $395K | $84K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $922 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $84K ✓ Higher income | $45K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 59/100 ✓ More walkable | 12/100 |
| Transit Score | 52/100 ✓ Better transit | 1/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 1/100 |
| Commute | 18 min ✓ Shorter commute | 118 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.6/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesStudentsRemote workers | budget buyersfirst_time rentersretirees with low income |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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