Rockford (zip 61104), IL


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Rockford (zip 61104), IL

About Rockford (zip 61104), IL

Living in 61104 Rockford, IL is an enjoyable experience for many. Located in north-central Illinois, the city offers a unique blend of urban and rural life. From museums to art galleries to restaurants, there are plenty of cultural experiences nearby. Rockford also boasts beautiful parks and trails that are perfect for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and walking. The cost of living here is reasonably low compared to other parts of the state, making it an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable life away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Residents also enjoy easy access to Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison and other major cities within a few hours’ drive as well as a thriving local economy with plenty of job opportunities in many industries. Small town - North-central Illinois near the Wisconsin border, 80 miles west of Chicago.

Zip Codes: Rockford (zip 61104)
Cost of Living:
Time zone: Central Standard Time (CST)
Elevation: 743 ft above sea level

Despite its location in a largely agricultural region, Rockford has a strong heritage as an industrial center. The diverse manufacturing base has partially transitioned away from its Rust Belt beginnings, and today’s local industries include aviation, aerospace, precision tools, and medicine along with the mainstays of agriculture and agricultural machinery. The industrial transformation is being augmented by its not-too-distant location relative to suburban Chicago and the new commuter rail service recently started.

The area still suffers the marks of economic decline, and the downtown area, passed by the Northwest Tollway, still shows signs of neglect. But the new commuter access, low housing costs, and some downtown and Rock River waterfront rehabilitation are bringing in some residents and new facilities. There are some good museums, and nearby Magic Waters is acclaimed to be the world’s largest water park. Some recreational opportunities are available in Wisconsin to the north, but residents must travel to Chicago for many amenities.

Rockford is located along the Rock River in an area of level to gently rolling terrain and open farmland. The climate is continental and variable. Summers are hot and sticky while winters are typically cold and blustery. Northeasterly winds from Lake Michigan cause cloudy periods in winter and some temperature moderation compared to areas farther west. Summers are hot but may also be cooled by lake winds. Precipitation is distributed evenly throughout the year, with slightly more arriving in summer, mainly as thunderstorms. Rockford is far enough north to have snow cover through the mid-winter months. First freeze is mid-October, last is late April.

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Rockford Cost of Living

Small-town atmosphere, cost of living, and access to chicago make Rockford a great place to live.

$67,400
+-401.6% higher than avg
$31,011
-122.6% lower than avg
9.0 / 4.3
Comfort Index
summer/winter
Rockford Crime
71.2 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Rockford, Illinois
$12,960
for a family
$26,000
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Rockford
   Small-town atmosphere
Harsh climate
   Cost of living
Crime rates
   Access to Chicago
Entertainment
Cost of Living