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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
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Property Taxes Will Kill You - 5/26/2019
I was raised in the area and lived here 3/4 of my life.
Rockford has definitely made efforts to bring events into the area so there are things to do and they have added some bike paths and the like. Can't tell you a thing about clubbing since it isn't my thing, but I don't hear anything about it either.
You get really good bang for your buck in the housing department but you'll get creamed for property taxes. 66% of my property taxes goes towards the local school district. Expect 11% property tax rate (it varies per your township, county, and city) - so to figure out your tax rate if you are buying, take that purchase price number, divide it by 3, subtract $6K off that number if it is your primary residence, take that number and multiply by 11%. Property taxes never go down and fools keep voting in politicians that raise all of the taxes. The taxes is what is driving us out of the state. When your property taxes each month is more than the mortgage, you've
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Making Progress! - 4/5/2019
Rockford has made great strides in the past 20 years. Downtown used to be a ghost town. Now, there are activities almost every weekend. City government has worked to bring restaurants and hotels to the downtown area. Keep it
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SO much to do!!!! - 7/21/2017
The Park district and golf courses are beautiful & so affordable. The downtown is boomin' with hip, fun activities. The Rkfd Area Convention & Visitors Bureau has made Stroll on State a great kick off to the holiday season! The west side has the wake park & the east side has the zipline. The River District is gorgeous. You must not miss Nicholas Conservatory, Anderson Gardens and The Rockford IceHogs, The Chicago Blackhawks affiliate.
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Property. taxes - 3/13/2016
We are planning on moving. This city is raping its citizens on property taxes and they are not getting anything for it. There has to be corruption going on if they have to keep raising taxes to cover their tracks. Do your homework on other cities, $ 150,000 house in Rockford property taxes= $ 6,000. Same house cost in a major city like Nashvile or Las Vegas taxes are $,1000 You can't afford to stay in this dead city I recommend all young people to leave.
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Moving ASAP - 2/26/2016
I currently live in Rockford IL and need to get out of this hell hole ASAP! I graduated school and majored in broadcasting so now its time for me to leave Rockford and shoot for bigger things. There is absolutely nothing in Rockford, especially for minorities. If you are black, you re either in jail or dead and im not over exaggerating. If you like drama, drugs, violence, and jail, then move here, but if you want bigger and better things in life do not move here!!!! Or get out while you
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This is Where I Stay - 5/20/2015
My last day living in Chicago I pondered my move to Rockford while sitting in a traffic logjam downtown at the Circle. Took me 4 hours to get from Chinatown to Wheeling. What first truly impressed me about Rockford was the lack of heavy, bustling traffic. At first it seemed like a strange town with very strange people and ideas...but as I worked here and began to know some people I was beginning to discover that I was able to differentiate between who was locally born and raised and who was a ex-pat from another area of the country. It's understandable why people here have lost all hope for a good life. During the 17 years I have been here I have seen most of Rockford's manufacturing base crumble away or relocate to a more amicable climate for business. There is nothing here to draw quality individuals. There are no "real" jobs to be had. I have observed a huge gap between rich and poor in Rockford. No indication of a thriving middle class whatsoever. The only reasons I stay put are
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It makes me sad, such a shame - 4/10/2015
Rockford could be SO much better than this. But high unemployment and low rates of educational attainment hold us back so much. Racial and economic segregation is a bigger problem than anyone want to admit. Propriety tax rates are beyond obscene.
Lifelong Rockfordians are proud of their city and most really try hard to improve life here. For the most part my husband and I like living here, too, but unfortunately we feel like it's time to abandon this sinking city and
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