ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford has landed on U.S. News and World Report's list of the "Best Places to Live in Illinois in 2025-26."

According to the study, Rockford landed at number 18 of the 22 best villages and cities in Illinois.

The report cited Rockford's low housing costs, which it claims are $134,642 on average, below the national average of $370,489.

"But the affordability of housing in the Rockford region is offset somewhat by high property taxes," the report said.

The report said Rockford's median household income is $52,480, below the national average of $72,466, and an unemployment rate of 7.9%, higher than the national average of 4.5%.

"Rockford’s economy has long relied on manufacturing, but its major industries have evolved over time. In the 1920s, Rockford was one of

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