Rockford is a beautiful city located in northern Illinois, about 20 miles from the Illinois-Wisconsin state line. Rockford is often referred to as “The Forest City” because of its abundant trees and furniture-manufacturing heritage. Learn more about Rockford and the northern Illinois region.
Rockford is the county seat of Winnebago County and, as reported by the 2010 census, is home to almost 153,000 people. The Rockford metropolitan area has over 348,000 residents.
The Chicago Tribune featured Rockford as a “comeback city” with diverse cultural activities, great dining options and an active downtown and River District. And Reader’s Digest Magazine just named Rockford one of the Best 15 Places To Move To (Before The Get Too Crowded)!
With affordable housing, beautiful neighborhoods and close proximity to Chicago, Milwaukee and O’Hare International Airport, Rockford is ideally suited for people looking for an active lifestyle that is family-friendly with plenty to do.
Cost of Living in Rockford: Your dollar and life go farther than ever in Rockford, Illinois. Learn more and review a cost-of-living calculator for Rockford vs. other cities across the country.
Take a look at a great two-minute video called In Good Company from the Rockford Area Visitors & Convention Bureau. It captures the character of our “accessible little city with a welcoming heart.”
We are excited about Rockford!
So are many others who can share their viewpoints with great words and pictures. Here are just a few.
The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau has compiled a great fact sheet and group of Frequently Asked Questions about Rockford.
The Rockford Chamber of Commerce promotes both personal opportunities and the healthy business climate residents can expect.
The Rockford Park District is one of the best in the country. Year round events promote an active and “get involved” community.
The Rockford Discovery Center is a premiere science and learning center for all ages. Changing exhibits and events make certain something is always “new.”
Midwest Living Magazine found a lot to like about the Rockford area highlighting many benefits to calling Rockford home. As they write, “You’d be crazy not to stop!”
Anderson Japanese Gardens offers an internationally renowned experience featuring one of the best Japanese-style gardens outside of Japan.
The Burpee Museum of Natural History is one of the best outside a major metropolitan area! Featuring Jane the Dinosaur, Burpee is known for its displays of local/regional history and many prehistoric treasures.
Higher Education Flourishes in The Rockford Area
Rock Valley College offers a two-year associates degrees along with many community outreach classes for those interested continuous learning.
Rockford University offers undergraduate and masters degrees in a variety of disciplines and chooses to be an active member of the Rockford community
Northern Illinois University, located only 45 minutes away in DeKalb, IL offers a satellite campus right here in Rockford. It is great undergraduate and graduate level state university, including nationally ranked sports teams and a well-respected business and law school.
University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford provides the finest community-based medical training, and offers educational development of health professionals.