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What BestPlaces Users Say about Rockford
Rockford, Illinois is a city located in the northern part of the state. It has a population of approximately 145,000 and is known for its manufacturing and healthcare industries. Its cost of living is lower than the national average, but it also has a higher crime rate. The city has a mix of urban and suburban areas, with a variety of parks and recreational activities available. Now, let's take a look at what some users have to say about living in Rockford.
According to user "Sarah R.", Rockford has its ups and downs. She says, "I've lived here my whole life and it's a decent place to raise a family. There are some nice neighborhoods and good schools, but crime is definitely an issue in certain areas." Similarly, "John G." shares his experience, stating, "I've been here for a few years now and it's not as bad as people make it out to be. Yes, there are some problem areas and the job market could be better, but overall it's a decent place to live."
On the other hand, user "Emily H." has a more negative view of Rockford. She says, "I moved here for work and I regret it. The crime is out of control and the city just doesn't feel safe. I also feel like there's not much to do here, especially for young professionals." Another user, "Mark T.", echoes this sentiment by stating, "I've lived in a few different cities and Rockford is by far the worst. It's run down, dirty, and just not a pleasant place to be. I can't wait to leave."
Overall, opinions on living in Rockford seem to be mixed. While some appreciate the lower cost of living and family-friendly areas, others are concerned about the high crime rate and lack of opportunities. It's important for individuals considering a move to do their own research and visit the city to see if it's the right fit for them.
based on 54 ReviewsGet to know Rockford with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Rockford
drug abuse areas - 1/22/2008
nice areas and bad areas drugs have crime at the top in almost every city also alot of good still around just have to be
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conservative city - 1/10/2008
Too conservative for my taste but the cost of housing is some of the lowest in the country and since Chicago and Madison are only an hour away there is plenty of culture just a short drive
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I wish I lived in Rockford - 10/9/2007
Rockford will always hold a special place in my heart, I grew up there. When I was younger I could not wait to get out of Rockford, now I know that, that is just young age speaking. I moved away to go to college and have live in several different cities. I miss the weather, I live in the south were it is always warm and I get tired of it -- when is it ever going to cool off! As for things to do there is always something going on in Rockford in the summer you've got Magic Waters, or any of the parks to go fishing in, take a hike, or go camping. In the Fall you got the Edwards, the pumpkin patch, corn mazes, haunted houses, and the parks again. The winter time you've got the Icehogs -- go hogs, the icehouse, the parks, and plenty of winter sports to try out. The spring is not as exciting as the rest of the year but you should go visit the local museums their awesome. Plus you close to Chicago and Wisconsin, how can you beat it. I am here to tell everyone yeah, some places suck to live
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"I like it" - 9/2/2007
Rockford has actually come a long way in recent years. Though the schools tend to be subpar the education system is on an upswing. Test scores are improving and there is much effort from school officials to change the current situation. There is a lot to do in Rockford so you don't have to drive to Chicago to find some interesting things to do. There is a Border's. Starbuck's, shopping malls, and a huge State Park with trails to hike and such. This is a wonderful place to live if people would give it a chance. All cities have there problems and talking about the negatvies vs the positives always make the situation seem more grim. I love Rockford and would not live anywhere else. If you are considering relocating, check out the east side of the city where there is less crime and wonderful neighborhoods with beautiful trees and quiet
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A community with vast room for improvement - 8/29/2007
Downtown features a huge new prison as a response to having the state's highest crime and unemployment rates. Major gang problem and extensive drug dealing that local officials seem unable to get a handle on. Premier live theater went bankrupt. Pinnacles of higher education are a junior college and a private college with severe financial problems. Strong park system and bike paths, but severe flooding problems in some parts of the city, parts of which were suggested for evacuation due to fears that a dam would fail and innudate a swath of the city during recent heavy flooding. Large number of vacant former factory space would be suitable for converstion to apartments. Good job opportunities for fork lift operators, etc., in the warehouse and materials handling industries plus work in telephone call centers. Real estate market is essentially stagnant with price increases below the rate of inflation for the past 10 years or more. Growth of Chicago will eventually impact the local
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You get what you ask for. - 7/11/2007
The newly built jail that is just short from being a penitentiary in the center of down town clearly speaks for itself as far as the crime rate. The school system is horrible; make sure that you have the funds to pay for private education if you have any hopes for your child or children future. Housing is low but the taxes area killer. All I can say is that I wish you luck on your
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Paying for what privilege? - 6/5/2007
Housing is affordable in ROckford, but the taxes are some of the highest in the country. My main beef with that is that in Rockford, you don't get anything for your tax dollar. It's no special prize to live in
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Finally a city that's down to earth - 11/8/2006
I have recently moved from the Chicago suburbs to Rockford, & have been extremely pleased in all aspects. When I went out on the town to Chicago, it was a project (and exensive!). First, I had to pick a day when traffic wasn't bad, & when finally getting downtown, it would take over 20 minutes just to find parking, & would cost about $20 for the night. I remember my car getting ticketed at exactly 7:10am because I was ten minutes late during rush hour to move my car.
Rockford is a totally different story. The nightlife by the River District is peaceful, and most of the time, you can find FREE street parking, NO meters! There's even a multi-level FREE parking garage that's close to everything. The people in Rockford are friendlier and much more laid back. They don't waste their time fussing over traffic jams and being late for work. Rockford is also much less expensive in all aspects, their groceries, shopping, and dining. Downtown Rockford is gradually becoming more
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Cost of Living - 9/17/2006
The Cost of Living is cheaper here than it is in Chicago but the area isn't the best in terms of finding a good
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