Cost of Living: Rockford vs South Bend (2026)
A one-bedroom apartment runs $1,050/mo in South Bend vs $1,050/mo in Rockford — a 0% difference. South Bend has a lower state income tax rate (3.2% vs 5%), which adds up over time.
- 1BR rent: $1,050/mo in South Bend vs $1,050/mo — 0% savings
- Higher median household income: South Bend ($47,000/yr vs $47,000/yr)
- Median home price: $175,000 in Rockford vs $195,000 — 10% difference
| Category | Rockford Illinois | South Bend Indiana |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 HousingQ1 2026 | ||
| Studio rent/mo | $850Best | $850 |
| 1BR rent/mo | $1,050Best | $1,050 |
| 2BR rent/mo | $1,400Best | $1,400 |
| Median home price | $175KBest | $195K |
| 🛒 Food & GroceriesQ1 2026 | ||
| Groceries index (100 = US avg) | 94 | 93Best |
| Budget meal (1 person) | $11Best | $11 |
| Mid-range dinner (2) | $48 | $46Best |
| 🚌 TransportationQ1 2026 | ||
| Monthly transit pass/mo | $50 | $42Best |
| Gas price/gal | $3.05Best | $3.05 |
| Car insurance/mo | $148 | $140Best |
| ⚡ UtilitiesQ1 2026 | ||
| Monthly utilities bundle/mo | $158 | $155Best |
| Internet/mo | $58Best | $58 |
| 💰 Income & TaxesQ1 2026 | ||
| Median household income/yr | $47KBest | $47K |
| State income tax% | 5.0% | 3.2%Best |
| Sales tax (combined)% | 8.5% | 7.0%Best |
| 🎬 LeisureQ1 2026 | ||
| Movie ticket | $13.00Best | $13.00 |
| Gym membership/mo | $33 | $30Best |
| Beer at restaurant | $5.00 | $4.50Best |
| 📊 OverviewQ1 2026 | ||
| Overall COL index (100 = US avg) | 82Best | 82 |
| Walk score / 100 | 34Best | 32 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the average rent in Rockford vs South Bend?
As of Q1 2026, the median 1-bedroom rent in Rockford is $1,050/month and in South Bend is $1,050/month. Rockford is more expensive by 0%.
How much do I need to earn in South Bend to match a $75,000 salary in Rockford?
To maintain a similar lifestyle, you would need approximately $75,000/year in South Bend to match a $75,000 salary in Rockford. This estimate is based on overall cost of living indices and does not account for individual spending patterns.
Which city has lower taxes — Rockford or South Bend?
South Bend has the lower state income tax rate at 3.2% vs 5%. The difference is 1.8 percentage points. Note that sales tax and local taxes also vary — see the full breakdown in the table above.
Is it worth moving from Rockford to South Bend?
It depends on your priorities. Both cities have similar overall costs. Use the comparison table above to evaluate rent, groceries, transportation, and income potential side by side based on your specific budget.
Data sourced from Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation, and US Census ACS · Updated Q1 2026 · For general guidance only
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