Cost of Living in Mattoon, IL

With a cost of living index of 65, Mattoon, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 35% cheaper than the national average and 15% below the Illinois state average of 80. Mattoon is a smaller community of 16,334 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Mattoon's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $764 (42% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $96,000 (69% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Mattoon is $47,308, which is 37% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 19% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Mattoon. The area sees an average annual temperature of 53.4°F, with summers averaging 74°F and winters around 31°F. Annual rainfall totals 36 inches spread over roughly 108 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.