Rockford Named 16th Worst City In The U.S., Here’s Why That’s Bogus

BREAKING NEWS: According to Eyewitness News, Rockford was named the most dangerous city in Illinois and it's the 16th worst city in the U.S. to live in.

Hey, don't kill the messenger, this was all based on info from a website that most of us haven't even heard of, 24/7 Wall Street.  According to their statistics, unemployment was a huge factor.

Really, that's it?

Not exactly. They say,

The city of Rockford, Illinois, has an unemployment rate of 7.7%, the highest of any city in the state and well above the 4.9% annual U.S. jobless rate. The city also ranks as the most dangerous in the state, with a violent crime rate of 1,658 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2016 — which is more than four times the U.S. violent crime rate.

The week jobs picture and high crime likely depress property values in the city. The typical home in Rockford is worth just $89,200, less than half the median home value of $186,500 across the state.

Is that all you got, 24/7 Wall Street?

Well, here's what I've got- 16 reasons why your information is completely and totally bogus.

Rockford is known for it's nationally recognized attractions like Nicholas Conservatory and Anderson Japanese Gardens.

We have one of the best park districts in the country.

We've got the best swag.

Rockford has some pretty fun festivals each year, including the Screw City Beer Festival.

Speaking of beer, have you been to Carlyle or Prairie Street Brew House?

Rockford is home to an iconic sports team and future Chicago Blackhawks.

No need to travel to Chicago for world class food, we have plenty of amazing options here; some have even been recognized as being some of the best in the U.S.

The Forest City is family friendly.

We're far from being geographically challenged; resort towns and the thrills of the big city are less than a tank of gas away.

Let's not underestimate the joys of being on the Rock River, and near other rivers that are great for boating, kayaking, and floating.

Sports, sports, sports. Tournaments, 5Ks, and Tough Mudders, OH MY.

Does your city have a Beef-a-Roo? Yeah, I didn't think so.

Screw City has culture. The Coronado, Starlight Theater, the Rockford Art Museum, and the Burpee...to name a few.

Can your city say it has a band in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame?

Our law enforcement officers are the best in the business.

Hey, at least we're not in the top 10.

More about what we love about Rockford can be found below.

Bonus Video