A+
16%
Overall NAT. AVG.
3%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
49%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Mattoon Illinois National
Cost of living8498100
Groceries98100100
Health care99100100
Housing5195100
Transportation100101100
Utilities10099100
Lifestyle & Entertainment94100100
Household Items98100100
Education & Childcare96100100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Mattoon, IL

Getting a feel for the cost of living in Mattoon is essential for anyone planning to relocate, as it empowers them to make informed financial decisions, secure a comfortable lifestyle and maintain financial stability in their new environment. The cost of living in Mattoon is 84, which is 16% lower than the national average. Relocating individuals may need to adjust their savings and investment strategies based on the cost of living in the new location. It influences decisions about retirement planning, investments and financial goals.

It's not uncommon for housing expenses to eat up a substantial portion of your income, oten exceeding 30%. The good news is that Mattoon stands out by reporting housing costs that are 48.6% lower than the national average. This signifies that both homeownership and rental expenses in this region are considerably more affordable compared to the rest of the country. This favorable housing situation allows residents to allocate a more manageable portion of their income to housing, resulting in greater financial flexibility.

Is Mattoon Affordable?

Is Mattoon an affordable place to live? It's a good question and one that you might want to ask when considering any new city, as affordability can play a huge role in the decision making process. The cost of living index (which we covered above), as well as housing costs and income levels play a vital role in determining the affordability of an area. The median home price in Mattoon is 54.5% lower than the national average, while the average monthly rent prices are 35% lower than average. The affordability of any location can also be influenced by median income levels. Mattoon has a median household income of $61,396, which is 24.5% lower than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Mattoon?

Utilities: Similar to the prices of any other goods or services, utility expenditures can exhibit substantial variability, influenced by factors such as climate, energy sources accessibility, geographical location and state regulations. Costs related to electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can fluctuate, whether higher or lower, contingent on the city or state. In Mattoon, the utilities index is 0.4% lower than the national average.

Urbanization: Urban areas with extensive amenities and job opportunities tend to have a higher cost of living due to increased demand for services and relocation, resulting in higher home prices and higher rents. Less densely populated rural areas, or areas with less demand tend to have fewer amenities and slower job growth, which results in a lower cost of living.

Housing: A sought-after location with high housing demand often leads to increased property values and rental rates, which can significantly inflate the overall cost of living. Conversely, areas with low housing demand, particularly in less desirable locales, tend to experience the opposite effect, causing prices to drop and contributing to a more affordable cost of living. In Mattoon, the housing index stands at 48.6% lower than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Mattoon shown above is based on a U.S. average baseline score of 100, making it easier to compare how far your dollar may go from one city to another. Housing uses U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all remaining values are AI-assisted estimates informed by regional pricing, climate, transportation dynamics, and local economic factors. These scores are best used for directional comparisons between cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Mattoon is 15% lower than the Illinois average
  • The cost of living in Mattoon is 16% lower than the national average
  • Mattoon housing is 49% lower than the national average
  • Illinois general sales tax is 22% higher than the national average
  • Illinois state income tax is 91% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Mattoon

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Compare Mattoon, IL Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$82,629$6,886$1,928$2,479
      Renters$38,462$3,205$897$1,154
      The percent of monthly income spent on housing can be a good indicator of the affordability of housing in Mattoon, IL, as well as the overall cost of living. As a general rule of thumb, the debt-to-income ratio (DTI) for homeowners or renters should be not more than 28 percent of gross income to be spent on housing related costs and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses, including debts. The median income for Mattoon homeowners, is $82,629. This would allow for a maximum of $1,928 per month to be spent on housing costs. For renters, the median monthly income is $38,462 which would result in a maximum of $897 to be spent on rental costs.

      Illinois Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Illinois 6.25% 10.25%

      Illinois Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Illinois 4.95% 4.95%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Hindsboro, IL4168317.2%
      Lerna, IL2588217.7%
      Allenville, IL1388317.5%
      Toledo, IL1,2048217.8%
      Neoga, IL1,6338316.9%
      Mattoon, IL17,6378416.0%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Lake Mary, FL17,63412827.8%
      North Canton, OH17,640936.8%
      Clive, IA17,63311010.4%
      Colonial Heights, VA17,6311032.9%
      Calhoun, GA17,644955.5%
      Mattoon, IL17,6378416.0%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.