| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Mattoon/100k people | Illinois/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 285 | n/a (estimate) | 1,731 | 2,004 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 1 | n/a | 6.1 | 5.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 32 | n/a | 194.4 | 46.9 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 2 | n/a | 12.1 | 90.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 52 | n/a | 315.8 | 146.3 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 87 | n/a (estimate) | 528 | 289 | 359 |
| Burglary | 53 | n/a | 321.9 | 290.5 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 121 | n/a | 734.9 | 1,134.4 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 24 | n/a | 145.8 | 290.4 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 198 | n/a (estimate) | 1,203 | 1,715 | 1,760 |

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Mattoon is 18.3% lower than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In Mattoon, there were 87 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 528 per 100,000 individuals, 47.2% higher than the national average. Additionally, there were 198 property crimes, amounting to 1203 per 100,000 residents, 31.7% lower than the U.S. average.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Mattoon residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 16 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 63% of Mattoon residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 38% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
To determine if Mattoon is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Mattoon has a total crime rate that is 18% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.78 daily crimes (0.24 violent daily crimes and 0.54 daily property crimes) in Mattoon.
Year-over-year crime data allows us to analyze short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and shifts in Mattoon crime rates. This information can be invaluable for residents looking to make informed decisions on where to live. When comparing the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in Mattoon has increased by 11.3% year over year. Violent crime has increased by 6.1% and property crime has increased by 13.8%.
If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Mattoon crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Mattoon has an unemployment rate of 4.8%, compared to a national average of 4.9%.
Highly populated regions typically encompass expansive urban hubs teeming with diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality can be exacerbated, giving rise to enclaves of poverty amid affluence. Communities marked by economic disparities may contend with heightened property crimes, and in certain instances, violent crimes. Conversely, regions characterized by low population density often exhibit lower Mattoon crime rates. For instance, in Mattoon, the population density stands at 1711.3 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.
High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in Mattoon are $939, compared to a national average of $1,444 per month.

Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Item | Mattoon | Illinois | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 41 | 30,690 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.2 | 2.6 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Illinois /100K | National /100K |
| Illinois | 32,213 | 263 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Sullivan, IL | 4,563 | 71 | 71 | 142 |
| Arcola, IL | 2,953 | 348 | 521 | 869 |
| Neoga, IL | 1,633 | 140 | 829 | 969 |
| Toledo, IL | 1,204 | 140 | 830 | 970 |
| Windsor, IL | 1,185 | 145 | 859 | 1,003 |
| Charleston, IL | 20,693 | 360 | 1,793 | 2,153 |
| Strasburg, IL | 543 | 375 | 2,224 | 2,599 |
| Mattoon, IL | 17,637 | 528 | 1,203 | 1,731 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| North Canton, OH | 17,640 | 57 | 1,092 | 1,149 |
| Lake Mary, FL | 17,634 | 138 | 1,038 | 1,176 |
| Clive, IA | 17,633 | 209 | 1,166 | 1,375 |
| Colonial Heights, VA | 17,631 | 462 | 3,182 | 3,644 |
| Calhoun, GA | 17,644 | 341 | 1,751 | 2,091 |
| Mattoon, IL | 17,637 | 528 | 1,203 | 1,731 |