c.1881 Two Bedroom Illinois Handyman Special With Original Elements $55K

1613 Marshall Ave, Mattoon, IL 61938   $55,000

• Contact Realtor: Julie Willington
• Google Map
• Niche

Pros

1. Low Cost of Living

   • Overall, Mattoon is significantly cheaper than many parts of Illinois and the U.S. Mattoon’s cost‑of‑living index is ~75‑78 where 100 is average in the U.S.

   • Housing costs are especially low: median home values are well below state & national averages.

2. Affordable Rent

   • Average rents are low compared to national averages. One‑bedrooms etc. are quite affordable.

   • Renting gives you good value for space in many cases.

3. Small‑Town / Quiet & Community Feel

   • Mattoon feels more laid back relative to major metro areas. It has quieter residential neighborhoods, some nice parks, tree‑lined streets.

   • There’s a sense of community; local businesses, downtown district with shops, restaurants are appreciated. Residents mention the small‑town charm.

4. Decent Amenities for Its Size

   • There is an Amtrak station, some healthcare facilities, a movie theater, community parks, etc.

   • Homes with more land: several areas/subdivisions offer more acreage or space, especially in eastern/northern parts.

5. Competitive Housing Market

   • Because home values are low, it’s possible to find good deals, including older homes, some restored ones, land. Homes generally sell relatively quickly, indicating demand is there.

6. Proximity to Larger Cities (to some extent)

   • While not itself large, Mattoon is ~50 miles to Champaign, which gives access to more amenities, higher education, etc. For some people this makes a balance possible.

Cons

1. Crime & Safety Issues

   • Violent crime rate is non‑negligible. For example, in 2024, there were ~87 violent crimes in Mattoon, corresponding to a rate of ~528 per 100,000 residents.

   • Property crime also runs high: ~1,220 per 100,000, from recent data.

   • Crime is uneven across neighborhoods — safety varies a lot depending on which part of town you are in.

2. Limited Growth / Economic Opportunities

   • Because it’s small, job opportunities are fewer and more limited in sector diversity compared to bigger metro areas. If you’re in a specialized field or high‑growth field, you may find fewer options. (While not always detailed in stats, this is a common feature of smaller towns like Mattoon.)

3. Amenities & Entertainment are More Modest

   • Fewer big‑city features: limited nightlife, fewer specialty stores or high‑end cultural amenities. If you like lots of variety in museums, big music acts, etc., may have to travel.

   • Shopping choices, dining variety is smaller. Some residents comment that nearby larger cities are required for certain needs.

4. Infrastructure & Services Limitations

   • Public transit is minimal. Most people will need a car.

   • Some utilities or services may have fewer providers; rural or small‑town constraints sometimes slow new construction or modernization.

5. Weather & Location Downsides

   • Moderate climate, but winters in Illinois can still be cold, snowy. Spring/fall transitions may have storms. (Standard for much of central Illinois.)

   • Being somewhat “in between” cities means that for anything outside basic needs (specialized medical care, etc.), you might need to travel.

6. Income Levels & Economic Constraints

   • Median incomes are lower than many places; growth in income might be slow.

   • Because housing and cost of living are low, that helps, but low wages in many sectors can limit upward mobility.

7. Electricity Costs & Utilities (Possible Downsides)

   • I saw at least one source indicating that electricity bills might run relatively high in certain parts/seasons. (Although data is mixed.)