Retail & Commercial

Rockford is the commercial hub for northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin, serving a regional population of 350,000+. With prime interstate access, competitive costs, and a diversified economy—including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and aerospace—Rockford offers a stable platform for retail and commercial growth.


Invest in Rockford


  • High-Visibility Corridors: 
    • I-90
    • US-20
    • Key Corridors - State St, Perryville Rd, Riverside Blv, Mulford Rd, Alpine Road
  • Strong Regional Draw: attracts shoppers from nearby Illinois & Wisconsin communities.
  • Steady Consumer Traffic: daytime population supported by major employers in healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and education.
  • Cost-Competitive: lower development and operating costs than the Chicago and other larger metro areas.
  • Available Sites: retail centers, out lots, infill lots, redevelopment sites, and mixed-use opportunities.
  • Diverse Retail Demand: grocery, dining, apparel, home improvement, entertainment, and personal services.
  • Neighborhood Support: young families and established households create consistent demand.

City Support for Developers & Retailers

  • Site selection assistance & demographic analysis.
  • Review of available incentives and cost reduction tools. 
  • Pre-development meetings for streamlined approvals.
  • Infrastructure & corridor investment to support high-value retail nodes.

Rockford Delivers

With strong regional pull, accessible sites, and a business-friendly local government, Rockford provides a compelling, profitable environment for retail and commercial development.

Locate in Rockford

Buildings/Sites

Commercial Sites

E Riverside Blvd & McFarlad Rd - 45 acres

City-Owned Sites

Springfield Corners - 45 acres

1516 Lyford Rd - 16 acres w/ I-90 visibility

Redevelopment Opportunities


Business District Associations 

Recognizing the importance of targeted support and investment, the City of Rockford partners with business associations to support and grow corridors.

To support these, the City has created the Business Association Grant Program and Business Association Development Grant Engagement Program.  Learn more about how the City is investing in these areas to drive growth.