Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Alton, IL
Considering a move to Alton, IL? This historic river city of 25,676 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $98,500 and rent averaging $845. Residents enjoy a manageable 23-minute average commute, two local hospitals, and access to both public and private schools, plus Lewis and Clark Community College nearby. While property crime rates are higher than average, Alton’s cost of living is well below the national index, making it a budget-friendly choice for those seeking Midwestern charm and riverfront scenery.
Demographics - Alton, IL
Alton, Illinois, is a diverse river city of about 25,700 residents with a median age of 41.2 years, reflecting a balanced mix of families and older adults. The community is predominantly White with a significant Black population, and a small percentage of residents speak languages other than English at home. Its moderate population density offers a blend of city amenities and neighborhood charm.
Population:
25,676
Density:
1,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
74.8%
Black:
19.2%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
5.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Alton, IL?
Alton boasts a low cost of living with a median home value of $98,500 and average rent at $845, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries are below national averages, and the overall cost of living index stands at 77.9, well under the U.S. average. State income tax is a flat 4.95%, helping residents keep more of their income.
Median House Value:
$98,500
Gross Rent:
$845
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,155
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,095
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$425
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.9
Grocery:
92.5
Housing:
54.0
Utilities:
96.0
Transportation:
95.5
Health Care:
97.2
Miscellaneous:
91.6
Crime
Is Alton, IL a safe place to live?
While Alton’s property crime rate is higher than the national average, with a 1 in 31 chance of being affected, its violent crime rate is somewhat elevated but not uncommon for cities of similar size. Residents should take standard safety precautions, particularly regarding property security. The community remains proactive in addressing local crime concerns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
563
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,200
Crime Index:
3,763
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 178
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Alton, IL year-round?
Alton experiences all four seasons, with hot, humid summers reaching up to 88°F and cold winters dipping to 23°F. The city gets around 42 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine about 56% of the year, providing a climate suitable for year-round outdoor activities. Spring and fall bring comfortable, mild weather perfect for exploring the area's riverfront scenery.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Residents of Alton enjoy a close-knit community with a median household income of $47,800 and a family income of $63,500. The poverty rate is higher than average at 19.5%, but most adults have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are typically under 24 minutes. Public transportation use is minimal, reflecting a community reliant on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$34,900
Household Income:
$47,800
Family Income:
$63,500
Per Capita Income:
$26,100
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$33,000
Poverty Rate:
19.5%
Non English Speakers:
4.1%
Rent:
$845
Unemployment Rate:
6.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
23.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.7%
Bachelors or More:
19.6%
Education
How are the schools in Alton, IL?
Alton offers a range of educational options, including public schools like Alton High School and North Elementary, as well as private choices such as Marquette Catholic High School. Students benefit from reasonable class sizes and access to higher education at Lewis and Clark Community College just three miles away. Additional opportunities are available nearby at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, broadening local educational resources.
Public Schools
Name:
Alton High School
Street:
4200 Humbert Rd
Phone:
618-474-2700
Students:
1,900
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.8
Name:
North Elementary School
Street:
5600 Godfrey Rd
Phone:
618-463-2134
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
Marquette Catholic High School
Street:
219 E 4th St
Phone:
618-463-0583
Students:
420
Colleges
Name:
Lewis and Clark Community College
City:
Godfrey
State:
IL
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
7,000
Name:
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
City:
Edwardsville
State:
IL
Distance:
20 miles
Students:
13,000
Healthcare
Alton provides strong healthcare access with two major hospitals offering emergency services and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 92.8%. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents, locals have ready access to medical care. The healthcare index of 81.2 indicates generally favorable conditions for those seeking quality medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Alton Memorial Hospital
Address:
1 Memorial Dr, Alton, IL 62002
Phone:
(618) 463-7311
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
OSF Saint Anthony's Health Center
Address:
1 Saint Anthony's Way, Alton, IL 62002
Phone:
(618) 463-5162
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
81.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Alton, IL?
Alton’s housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price just under $100,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $845. A majority of residents own their homes, and vacancy rates are moderate, making it relatively easy to find housing. The market sees steady appreciation and low foreclosure rates, offering stability for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$98,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$845
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.2%
DMV Information
The local Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility in Alton provides convenient access to driver licensing and vehicle registration services. Residents can visit the office on E. Broadway or access many services online through the state website. The facility supports newcomers with essential DMV needs in a streamlined manner.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State - Driver Services Facility
Address:
2720 E. Broadway, Alton, IL 62002
Phone:
(800) 252-8980
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.