Rockford Tower (RFD)

📍 About RFD & Rockford

Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) is located on the southwest side of Rockford, Illinois. The area offers affordable housing, easy living, and quick access to outdoor recreation. It’s a great fit for those who want a lower cost of living but still be within reach of major metro areas like Chicago and Madison.

🏡 Where to Live

Best for Singles & Couples

• Downtown Rockford – Revitalized area with bars, restaurants, and lofts.
• Cherry Valley – Quiet, quaint village near I-90.
• Loves Park – Affordable, easy access to dining and shopping.

Best for Families

• Roscoe – Excellent schools, family-friendly subdivisions.
• Rockton – Strong community, parks, and safe neighborhoods.
• Belvidere – Suburban with lower taxes, good schools.

🚗 Commute Times to RFD

• 5–15 min: Cherry Valley, South Rockford
• 15–30 min: Loves Park, Belvidere, Roscoe
• 30–40 min: Rockton, northern suburbs

🎓 Top School Districts

• Hononegah Community HS (Rockton)
• Kinnikinnick SD (Roscoe)
• Belvidere SD 100

🧳 Things to Do – Within 2 Hours

• Anderson Japanese Gardens: One of the best in the U.S.
• Rock Cut State Park: Trails, fishing, kayaking
• Burpee Museum of Natural History: Dinosaur exhibits, kids’ activities
• Short Trips: Madison (1 hr), Chicago (1.5 hrs), Milwaukee (2 hrs)

✈️ Nearby Airports

• RFD: On-site – Allegiant and cargo flights
• ORD (Chicago O’Hare): ~1.5 hours – major international airport
• MSN (Madison): ~1 hour – regional commercial service

💰 Cost of Living

• Median Home Price (Rockford): ~$150,000
• 1-Bedroom Rent: ~$900–$1,200/month
• Utilities: ~$150–$200/month
• Illinois Income Tax: 4.95%
• Groceries/Gas: Below national average

☀️ Seasonal Weather

• Winter: Cold & snowy, average 35–45” of snow
• Spring: Mild, rainy, pleasant
• Summer: Warm, 80s–90s, some humidity
• Fall: Cool, colorful, crisp air

🚇 Public Transportation & Traffic

• RMTD: Local bus service around Rockford
• Car required: Most areas not walkable
• Traffic: Generally light

🏥 Healthcare & Urgent Care

• Mercyhealth and OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center – Major providers
• Urgent care: Several walk-in clinics throughout the city

🫂 Social Life & Community

• Young professionals: Local bars, events, live music downtown
• Families: Kids’ museums, YMCA, outdoor festivals
• Community: Strong volunteering and church networks

🍽️ Dining & Food Scene

• Downtown Rockford: Social, Octane, Abreo, Woodfire Pizza
• Casual Eats: Beefaroo, Lino’s, Der Rathskeller
• Nearby: Madison and Chicago for food day trips

🛫 ATC-Specific Tips

• Shift times vary — plan housing nearby if on mids
• Traffic is minimal, so commuting is generally easy
• Controllers often live in Roscoe or Loves Park for balance of cost and access

📦 Moving Tips

• Snow gear recommended (shovels, snow tires, etc.)
• Best moving seasons: Spring and early Fall
• Local movers: Two Men and a Truck, Excel Moving Services

❓ FAQs

• Is Rockford safe?
  Some areas have higher crime. Stick to east side, Roscoe, Rockton, and Loves Park.
• Do I need AWD?
  Helpful in winter, especially for outlying areas.
• Is Chicago commutable?
  Not daily. It’s 90+ mins one-way.