Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Alta Vista, KS
Considering a move to Alta Vista, KS? This small, friendly community of 428 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $85,000 and rents near $600. Crime rates are low and the average commute is just 23 minutes. Enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, local elementary school, and easy access to major hospitals and Kansas State University nearby. With 61% sunny days, plenty of space, and a welcoming vibe, Alta Vista is a great choice for those seeking small-town charm.
Demographics - Alta Vista, KS
Demographics - Alta Vista, KS
Alta Vista is a close-knit community of 428 residents with a median age of nearly 40, reflecting a balanced mix of ages and families. The population is predominantly White, and the city maintains a nearly even gender ratio. With a population density of 1,050 per square mile, Alta Vista offers a small-town atmosphere where most residents speak English at home.
Population:
428
Density:
1,050 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.9
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.3%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Alta Vista, KS?
Living in Alta Vista is highly affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values at $84,500. Renters typically pay around $600 per month, and everyday expenses like groceries and transportation are budget-friendly. Utilities are slightly above average, but overall, residents enjoy low housing and tax costs.
Median House Value:
$84,500
Gross Rent:
$600
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,040
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$330
State Taxes:
Low:
3.1%
|
High:
5.7%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.4
Grocery:
91.2
Housing:
49.1
Utilities:
102.8
Transportation:
83.7
Health Care:
95.6
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Alta Vista, KS a safe place to live?
Alta Vista experiences low crime rates, offering a sense of safety for families and individuals alike. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 770, and property crime is also relatively uncommon. These statistics make the city an appealing choice for those prioritizing security and peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
130
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,250
Crime Index:
1,380
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 770
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 80
Weather
What is the weather like in Alta Vista, KS year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows in the upper teens and summers reaching highs near 91°F. Alta Vista receives about 36.5 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 61% sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities throughout much of the year. The climate supports a comfortable, varied lifestyle for all ages.

Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
41°F

Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
91°F

Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Alta Vista's community features a median household income of $52,400 and a low unemployment rate of 3.8%. Most residents are educated, with over 90% holding at least a high school diploma, and commute times average just 23 minutes. The area is known for its friendly neighbors and a modest cost of living, fostering a welcoming environment.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$52,400
Family Income:
$58,000
Per Capita Income:
$25,800
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$26,200
Poverty Rate:
11.3%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$600
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
23.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.5%
Bachelors or More:
18.2%
Education
How are the schools in Alta Vista, KS?
Alta Vista supports quality education with a local elementary school offering small class sizes and personal attention. For higher education, Kansas State University is just 32 miles away, providing a range of academic and cultural opportunities. The community values education, and most adults have at least a high school diploma.

Public Schools
Name:
Alta Vista Elementary School
Street:
403 Main St
Phone:
785-499-6313
Students:
60
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5

Colleges
Name:
Kansas State University
City:
Manhattan
State:
KS
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
20,200
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is convenient, with major hospitals like Wamego Health Center and Via Christi Hospital Manhattan nearby, and 91.6% of residents have health insurance. There are 1.4 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring personalized care. The local healthcare index indicates quality and reasonably affordable services for residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Wamego Health Center
Address:
711 Genn Dr, Wamego, KS 66547
Phone:
(785) 458-7400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Via Christi Hospital Manhattan
Address:
1823 College Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502
Phone:
(785) 565-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
78.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Alta Vista, KS?
Alta Vista's housing market is exceptionally affordable, with a median home price of $84,500 and rent for a two-bedroom apartment averaging $600. Most homes are owner-occupied, and vacancies remain low, reflecting a stable and accessible market. Modest appreciation rates and low foreclosure rates add to the city's appeal for homebuyers.
Median Home Price:
$84,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$600
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
For driver services, residents are served by the Kansas Division of Vehicles located in Topeka, offering licensing, registration, and other DMV services. The office is easily accessible by phone or through the state's official DMV website, making vehicle management straightforward for Alta Vista locals.
State:
Kansas
Department:
Kansas Division of Vehicles
Address:
300 SW 29th St, Topeka, KS 66611
Phone:
785-296-3963
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.