Rockford vs Memphis for Families (2026)
A family-focused comparison of housing, income, taxes, and overall affordability in Rockford, IL vs Memphis, TN.
- 2BR rent: $1,400/mo in Memphis vs $1,400/mo — 0% difference
- More affordable homeownership in Rockford: $175K median vs $200K
- Higher median household income in Rockford: $47K/yr vs $42K
- Memphis has no state income tax — more take-home for family expenses
Family cost comparison
| Metric | Rockford Illinois | Memphis Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR rent/month | $1,400Better | $1,400 |
| Median home price | $175KBetter | $200K |
| Median household income | $47KBetter | $42K |
| Est. childcare/month | $1,066Better | $1,079 |
| State income tax | 5% | NoneBetter |
| Sales tax (combined) | 8.5%Better | 9.8% |
Frequently asked questions
Which city is better for raising a family — Rockford or Memphis?
Based on housing costs, income, and taxes, Rockford scores slightly better for families overall. Memphis has lower 2-bedroom rents, Rockford is more affordable for homebuyers, though both cities have strong family communities.
What is the average 2-bedroom rent in Rockford vs Memphis?
As of Q1 2026, median 2BR rent is $1,400/month in Rockford and $1,400/month in Memphis. Memphis is 0% cheaper for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Can a family afford to buy a home in Rockford or Memphis?
The price-to-income ratio in Rockford is 3.7× ($175K home, $47K income) vs 4.8× in Memphis. A ratio below 3× is generally considered affordable. Rockford is more achievable for first-time family homebuyers.
How much does childcare cost in Rockford vs Memphis?
Based on cost-of-living indices, estimated childcare (infant/toddler) runs approximately $1,066/month in Rockford and $1,079/month in Memphis. These are estimates — actual costs vary by provider and program type.
Which city has lower taxes for families?
Rockford has a 5% state income tax rate vs Memphis (Tennessee) has no state income tax. For a dual-income family earning $120K combined, the difference can mean $300+/month in take-home.
Childcare estimates based on national average scaled by COL index. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026
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