Rockford Ranked #1 Housing Market in America By Zillow

Zillow just released its list of the top housing markets in America for 2025, and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't shocked to see Rockford, Illinois at number one on the list.

Reasons to Love Rockford

As a lifelong Rockford area resident, I know that first sentence might come off like I don't think this city is a great place to live, but that couldn't be farther from the truth!

Does Rockford have issues that residents love to complain about? Of course, but what city, town or village in the world doesn't? I happen to love living in this area, and here are a few of the many reasons why:

• Convenience. We don't have to travel far to get to big cities like Chicago, Madison, and Milwaukee.
• Things to Do. People like to say that there is never anything to do in Rockford, but that's ridiculous. We've got great parks, museums, entertainment...Rockford has a TON of things for adults and children to do, see, and enjoy.
• Food. The Rockford area has so many great restaurants and bars serving up delicious eats. I'm especially fond of our local pizza places.

All that being said, when I saw this post from the City of Rockford pop up on my news feed this morning, I had to pause mid-sip of my coffee.

We've been hearing for a while now that Rockford is one of the hottest housing markets in the country, but to see it confirmed by Zillow had me smiling from ear to ear.

Zillow's Most Popular Housing Markets for 2025

Let's first answer the question everybody is asking: "how did Rockford, Illinois land in the #1 spot?"

Here's the answer according to Zillow:

Located about 90 minutes northwest of Chicago, Rockford offers access to a major job hub without big-city housing costs. More than three out of five page views came from shoppers outside the area, and homes typically went under contract in just five days, making Rockford one of the fastest-moving markets on the list.

Look at you go, Rockford. We're so proud of you!

As for the other cities that made Zillow's top 10 list of the most popular housing markets for 2025, there's a pretty obvious theme: Midwest affordability.

1. Rockford, Illinois
2. Berkeley, California
3. Albany, New York
4. Dearborn, Michigan
5. Toledo, Ohio
6. Carmel, Indiana
7. South Bend, Indiana
8. Abilene, Texas
9. Springfield, Illinois
10. Allentown, Pennsylvania

So, the next time someone asks why you live in Rockford, Illinois, just point to Zillow’s list and smile. We always knew this town had heart, and now the rest of America is starting to notice it too.