Mattoon, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,586
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,597/yr
9.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,976
2.4% year-over-year change

Mattoon population

How many people live in Mattoon

Mattoon is home to 16,586 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Mattoon locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
16,586
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
8,093
Female
51.2%
8,493
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,093 48.8% 0.6%
Female 8,493 51.2% 2.4%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Mattoon is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.1% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
27.1%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
19.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,014 18.2% 4.7%
15 to 24 1,877 11.3% -0.7%
25 to 44 4,495 27.1% 5.6%
45 to 64 3,997 24.1% -0.7%
Over 65 3,203 19.3% -2.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Mattoon, 97.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.7% of locals are Caucasian, 2.6% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,226 97.8% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 195 1.2% 33.6%
Non-citizens 165 1% 27.9%
Racial breakdown
White
90.7%
Black or African American
2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.8%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 15,050 90.7%
Black or African American 433 2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 12 0.1%
Asian 142 0.9%
Two or more races 798 4.8%
Other 151 0.9%

Households in Mattoon

A peek inside Mattoon households

Mattoon has 8,121 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.6% are families, while the remaining 46.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,121
3.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,770
Family households
4,351
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,770 46.4% 4.6%
Family households 4,351 53.6% 3.0%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Mattoon

The housing landscape of Mattoon

Mattoon's housing consists of 8,976 units, with 69.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 2.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,976
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,207 69.2%
1 unit, attached 345 3.8%
2 units 383 4.3%
3 or 4 units 553 6.2%
5 to 9 units 492 5.5%
10 to 19 units 193 2.2%
20 to 49 units 216 2.4%
50 or more units 356 4%
Mobile home 231 2.6%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mattoon

In Mattoon, the median construction year is 1956. About 32.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,889 32.2% 4.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 528 5.9% -9.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,782 19.8% 6.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 933 10.4% -21.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,039 11.6% 6.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 461 5.1% 5.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 710 7.9% 12.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 458 5.1% 34.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 176 2% 10.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Mattoon occupancy rates

Out of the 8,121 occupied housing units in Mattoon, 55.8% are owner-occupied, while 44.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,121
3.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,588
Owner occupied
4,533
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,588 44.2% 4.2%
Owner occupied 4,533 55.8% 3.4%
Unoccupied housing units
9.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Mattoon housing costs

Housing costs in Mattoon come to a median of $737 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $740.

Median housing costs per month
$737/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Mattoon
$740/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Mattoon

Mattoon education at a glance

About 46.5% of the population in Mattoon went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 13.1% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 271 2.1% 19.9%
High school diploma 6,128 46.5% 2.7%
College diploma 2,659 20.2% -6.8%
Associate degree 1,725 13.1% 18.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,579 12% 0.6%
Graduate degree 805 6.1% -2.7%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Mattoon

How much people earn in Mattoon

The average annual household income in Mattoon was $62,015 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,597, reflecting a +9.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mattoon
$62,015/year
4.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mattoon
$51,597/year
9.1% year-over-year change

Mattoon income by age

In Mattoon, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $58,460. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $52,853 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,583, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,202 in earnings. Overall, 78.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,583 23.5%
25 - 44 $58,460 17.3%
45 - 64 $52,853 3.4%
Over 65 $39,202 3.8%
Above poverty level
12,532
Below poverty level
3,422
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,532 78.6% 0.7%
Below poverty level 3,422 21.4% 3.2%

Average renter income in Mattoon

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Mattoon, their median household income was $34,850 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 25.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,850
Rent-to-income ratio
25.5%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Mattoon

Workforce and job types in Mattoon

The job market in Mattoon is powered by 7,203 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.5% run their own businesses, 67.8% are employed by private companies, and 12.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,203
2.5% year-over-year change
White collar
4,959
Blue collar
2,244
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,959 68.8% 3.2%
Blue collar 2,244 31.2% 1.1%
Employer type
Self employees
5.5%
Private companies
67.8%
Governmental workers
12.8%
Not for profit companies
13.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 398 5.5% -9.1%
Private companies 4,882 67.8% -1.1%
Governmental workers 920 12.8% 31.1%
Not for profit companies 1,003 13.9% 5.6%
Unemployment rate
6.5%
-25.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mattoon stands at 6.5%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Mattoon

How people get around in Mattoon

In Mattoon, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
-0.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,409 91.7% 1.8%
Taxicab 25 0.4% -58.3%
Bicycle 121 1.7% 37.5%
Walk 87 1.2% 10.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Mattoon by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61938 20,350 9,629 $57,503 $72,323

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FAQs about Mattoon demographics 

What is the total population of Mattoon?

Mattoon has a total population of 16,586 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mattoon?

The gender ratio in Mattoon is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (8,093 residents)
  • 51.2% females (8,493 residents)

What is the median age in Mattoon?

The median age in Mattoon is 40.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Mattoon?

The age distribution in Mattoon is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (3,014 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (1,877 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.1% (4,495 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (3,997 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.3% (3,203 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mattoon?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mattoon is as follows:
  • White: 90.7% (15,050 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.6% (433 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (12 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (142 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.8% (798 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (151 residents)

What percentage of the population in Mattoon are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.8% of the population in Mattoon.

How many housing units are there in Mattoon?

There are 8,976 housing units in Mattoon, reflecting a +2.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Mattoon and what is the average household size?

Mattoon has a total of 8,121 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mattoon?

Mattoon has a median household income of $51,597, representing a +9.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Mattoon?

The employment rate is 93.5% in Mattoon, with a workforce of 7,203 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.8% (4,959 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.2% (2,244 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.5% (398 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.8% (4,882 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.8% (920 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.9% (1,003 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025