"Rockton a smart little manufacturing town of a thousand souls worthy of study to the curious in economics and human nature." - Reuben Gold Thwaites, Historic Waterways
Nestled along the bank of Rock River, the village of Rockton, Illinois is classic small town USA. Reminiscent of Andy Griffith's Mayberry or Gilmore Girls's Stars Hollow, Rockton offers an escape from hectic living in a peaceful, attractive environment. With a historic shopping district and a number of festive events throughout the year, the community of Rockton serves up quaint hometown charm in a bottomless mason jar.
Consider all renting options
"Rockton a smart little manufacturing town of a thousand souls worthy of study to the curious in economics and human nature." - Reuben Gold Thwaites, Historic Waterways
Nestled along the bank of Rock River, the village of Rockton, Illinois is classic small town USA. Reminiscent of Andy Griffith's Mayberry or Gilmore Girls's Stars Hollow, Rockton offers an escape from hectic living in a peaceful, attractive environment. With a historic shopping district and a number of festive events throughout the year, the community of Rockton serves up quaint hometown charm in a bottomless mason jar.
Moving to Rockton
Consider all renting options. Rockton offers a variety of rental possibilities. Before committing to looking at one type of rental property, weigh out the pros and cons of renting a house versus renting in an apartment complex. When renting a house, you may find more space and privacy for your money. However, property maintenance may be an issue, so find out who's responsible for things like lawn care and snow removal. If you're new to Midwestern winters and snow shoveling, an apartment complex, where maintenance is included in the rent, may help you more easily adapt to your new environment.
Where to Look
Make sure you check out the list below to get an idea of where to look for a place to live in Rockton.
Historic Rockton: Located in the North West part of the city, this established community is close to the riverfront. Renters may find lots of mature homes to rent in Rockton's historic district.
South bank of Rock River: Home to Winnebago County Forest Preserve and Rockton Athletic Fields. This neighborhood is surrounded by farms and forests and the town's two golf courses.
East Rockton: Borders the neighboring city of Roscoe, IL. This area is closer to the main highways, with easier access to amenities and shopping. Apartments for rent in this area may be newer builds with modern features.
Life in Rockton
The village of Rockton is 5.71 square miles of quintessential American small town life. Local events like Rockton River Market, Rockton Christmas Walk, Annual Wagon Wheel Day and Rhubarb Fest offer ample opportunities to bond with the townsfolk and catch up on the latest gossip around the village. Past and present merge over at DairyHas, a family-run ice cream joint that operates out of one of the oldest buildings in the downtown area. The town boasts a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere that welcomes newcomers to put down roots.
Environment
Surrounded by parks, athletic facilities and golf courses, Rockton is a haven for outdoorsy types. Need an art fix? Nearby Rockford has lots of cultural activities worthy of a day trip. Rockton is conveniently located, with easy access to major roads, parks and activities. It borders seamlessly with neighboring communities, South Beloit just to the north and Roscoe in the southeast, to form the Illinois Stateline area. You can easily reach Chicago or Milwaukee in a two-hour drive.
Rockton has one of the lowest costs of living in Illinois, with rents nearly half of what you could expect to pay in Chicago. The low cost of living does mean you'll pay in other ways. While Rockton offers loads of small town charm, it lacks big box shopping and dining options.
Transportation
A car is a definite necessity for getting around the State Line area. Whether you're stocking up on necessities or just want to get across town, you'll need reliable personal transportation. When assessing the true affordability of small town life, factor in all the costs of car ownership and maintenance. Your car will be your mobile home away from home.
The town's Midwestern location means you'll have chances to enjoy or endure all four seasons. Temperatures are on par with seasonal expectations. Summer months reach temperatures around 83F while winter sees an average low of 11F, with snow accumulation of 11 inches. Winter can stretch on for four long months (and one short one), so invest in some quality snow garb to survive the dash from car door to front door.
In Rockton, you have the chance to realize the original American dream. Welcome to your new hometown.
