12 Reasons to Move to Rockford [LIST]

I remember when I first told people I got a job working for a radio station in Rockford; I got two responses: "You gotta a gun?" and "Oh my god, you aren't going to move there are you?" At first I chuckled and shrugged it off because I had no intention of moving here. I was a home owner and had only lived in my house a short time; there was no way I was moving already.

Well, after commuting from Lake Geneva for over a year and some personal issues, I finally made the move to Rockford in September and I have no regrets. Rockford is no different than any other city, everyone experiences crime, poverty and issues in the educational system but don't let that deter you or anyone you know from moving to the Stateline area.

As a matter of fact, Forbes came out with a list of the 19 Places That Would Be Best to Make Your Mark, and Rockford came in at number 6.

Here are 12 reasons why you should consider moving to Rockford:

1. For love. That's the primary reason I moved here.

2. For a job. Another reason I moved to the area.

3. A booming downtown.

4. You're less than 90 minutes away from some amazing cities like Chicago, Madison, Milwaukee; and let's not forget vacation hot spots like Galena, The Wisconsin Dells and Lake Geneva.

5. Diversity.

6. Affordable options for education.

7. Low cost of living. The average sale price of a home is $75,000. And did you know there's a program where you can buy a home for $1 if you restore and live in it for at least three years?

8. Despite the potholes, it's only a 10-15 minute drive to any place in the city. (unless you're stuck at the stoplight on Alpine and East State)

9. Great local spots to eat, drink and host events.

10. It's family and kid friendly with places like The Burpee Museum, Discovery Center, and the Nicholas Conservatory.

11. The people. Those who embrace living here are what make Rockford rock. And for the first time in my adult life, I can say I have amazing friends who I know will be in my life for a long time.

12. World class events thrown by the RACVB.

Is there anything you could add to the list? If you're a transplant like me, why did you make the move?

Let your voice be heard. There are some wonderful people who are working diligently; every day to be an advocate for the city of Rockford. They're goal is to make our community a better place to live. I'd like to thank Kyle Schilling for starting a conversation about the many great reasons to live in Rockford. You can connect with him on his Facebook page if you'd like to contribute to the conversation.

Bonus Video