Why the Rockford Region

The Rockford Advantage at A Glance

The Rockford Region offers businesses a winning combination of strategic location, skilled workforce, and a supportive economic ecosystem. From established industries to emerging opportunities, Rockford is a place where companies can grow, innovate, and thrive while benefiting from a high quality of life for employees.

Thriving Industries & Economic Strength

Rockford is home to a diverse and growing economy. Key industries include:

• Aerospace & Advanced Manufacturing – Rockford is part of a Midwest aerospace hub with over 250 suppliers and skilled workers.
• Healthcare & Life Sciences – A strong healthcare infrastructure provides services, innovation, and workforce talent.
• Logistics & Distribution – Central location with robust rail, highway, and air access makes Rockford ideal for warehousing and supply chain operations.
• Advanced Manufacturing & Skilled Trades – Precision manufacturing, machining, and automation thrive here.

Access to a Skilled Workforce

• Over 168,000 workers in the Rockford metropolitan area, with more than 1 million within 60 minutes, giving businesses a deep labor pool.
• High concentration of workers in manufacturing, logistics, skilled trades, and aerospace-related roles, along with access to engineers, healthcare professionals, and business services.
• Regional educational institutions and workforce programs, including Rock Valley College, Northern Illinois University, and local training initiatives, help businesses recruit and retain qualified employees.
• Occupations with the highest location quotient (LQ) in Rockford MSA:
  • Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic – LQ 11.83
  • Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators - LQ 8.11
  • Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic - LQ 7.74
  • Tool and Die Makers - LQ 6.58
  • Machinists - LQ 6.49
  • Plating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic - LQ 5.77
  • Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic - LQ 5.29
  • Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians - LQ 5.19
  • Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers - LQ 3.60
  • Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders - LQ 3.12

Strategic Location & Infrastructure

• Rockford’s central Midwest location provides fast access to major markets in Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison, and beyond.
• Strong infrastructure for business operations: highways, rail, and international airport connectivity.
• Industrial parks, commercial real estate, and flexible facilities make it easy to expand, relocate, or scale operations.

Quality of Life & Community Advantage

• Rockford offers affordable living, strong schools, recreational amenities, and cultural attractions, supporting employee recruitment and retention.
• The local government and chamber actively support businesses with incentives, resources, and community partnerships to foster growth.
• Collaborative, business-friendly environment encourages innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term stability.