What Should I Know Before Moving to Altoona?

Check the cost of living, housing, traffic, and public transit in Altoona. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. Be prepared for Altoona climate and weather.

How Much Do Movers Charge in Altoona?

Moving within Altoona usually costs between $300 and $1,500. Moving long distances can cost anywhere from $2,000 to more than $5,000. The price may go up if you need extra services like packing or storage. Fill out Movers.com quote form to compare the quotes easily.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Move to Altoona?

While moves happen year-round, spring and fall are often more comfortable in Altoona. Booking outside of peak summer or winter seasons can save money and make scheduling easier.

Do Moving Companies in Altoona Offer Packing and Unpacking Services?

Yes! Majority of moving companies in Altoona offer full service moving, which means they will help you pack, unpack, and arrange your belongings.

When You Move from Altoona, How Far in Advance Should I Schedule My Move?

You should plan your move from Altoona at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during the busy season (summer). You can get better availability, prices, and flexibility with your moving date if you book early. If you book at the last minute, you may have fewer choices or pay more.

Moving to Altoona, IA | Find Trusted Movers & Services

Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Altoona, IA

Thinking of moving to Altoona, IA? This vibrant city of 20,221 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $265,000 and average rents at $1,130. Enjoy safe neighborhoods with a low violent crime rate of 140 per 100K, short average commutes of 21.5 minutes, and strong public schools. With 62% sunny days annually and easy access to greater Des Moines amenities, Altoona is a welcoming choice for families and professionals alike.

Demographics - Altoona, IA

Altoona is home to about 20,221 residents, with a fairly young median age of 36 and a balanced gender ratio. The city is predominantly White (90.2%), and about 5.8% of residents speak a language other than English at home, contributing to a welcoming and diverse atmosphere.

Population:

20,221

Density:

1,400 per sq mi

Median Age:

36.0

Gender Ratio:

98 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

5.8%

Ethnic Composition

White:

90.2%

Black:

2.3%

Asian:

1.1%

Others:

6.4%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Altoona, IA?

Living in Altoona is affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average at 92.0. Median home values are $265,000, average rents are $1,130, and utility costs remain reasonable, making it an attractive place for both homeowners and renters.

Median House Value:

$265,000

Gross Rent:

$1,130

Monthly Electricity Charges:

$110

Auto Insurance:

$1,020

House Owner Cost With Mortgage:

$1,670

House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:

$570

State Taxes:

Low:

4.4%

High:

8.53%

Cost Of Living Index:

92.0

Grocery:

95.1

Housing:

84.6

Utilities:

101.5

Transportation:

95.2

Health Care:

95.7

Miscellaneous:

96.0

Crime

Is Altoona, IA a safe place to live?

Altoona offers a safe environment, reporting a low violent crime rate of 140 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 715 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime is also moderate, providing peace of mind for families and individuals.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

140

Property Crimes Per 100k:

1,850

Crime Index:

1,990

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 715

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 54

Weather

What is the weather like in Altoona, IA year-round?

Residents experience all four seasons in Altoona, with warm summers reaching up to 86°F and cold winters dipping to 13°F. The area enjoys 62% sunny days each year and receives about 35.5 inches of rainfall, making for a balanced Midwest climate.

Winter

Min:

13°F

Max:

33°F

Spring

Min:

37°F

Max:

65°F

Summer

Min:

62°F

Max:

86°F

Fall

Min:

39°F

Max:

68°F

Average Rainfall Inches:

35.5 inches

Sunny Days Percentage:

62%

Neighbors

Altoona features a strong community, with a median household income of $93,500 and a low poverty rate of 7.1%. Most residents enjoy short commutes averaging 21.5 minutes and a high rate of educational attainment, fostering a supportive and prosperous neighborhood.

Median Income:

$41,600

Household Income:

$93,500

Family Income:

$106,000

Per Capita Income:

$38,700

Income Male:

$52,200

Income Female:

$41,600

Poverty Rate:

7.1%

Non English Speakers:

5.8%

Rent:

$1,130

Unemployment Rate:

3.2%

Public Transport Usage:

0.7%

Commute Time:

21.5 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

95.8%

Bachelors or More:

32.6%

Education

How are the schools in Altoona, IA?

Altoona boasts strong educational offerings, including highly-rated public schools like Altoona Elementary and Southeast Polk Junior High, with student-teacher ratios around 15:1. Nearby colleges such as Des Moines Area Community College and Grand View University are easily accessible, supporting lifelong learning opportunities.

Public Schools

Name:

Altoona Elementary School

Street:

301 6th Ave SW

Phone:

515-967-3771

Students:

540

Student Teacher Ratio:

15.2

Name:

Southeast Polk Junior High

Street:

8325 NE University Ave

Phone:

515-967-5509

Students:

900

Student Teacher Ratio:

14.8

Private Schools

Name:

Grandview Park Baptist School

Street:

1120 Grandview Ave, Des Moines, IA

Phone:

515-265-1607

Students:

230

Colleges

Name:

Des Moines Area Community College

City:

Ankeny

State:

Distance:

9 miles

Students:

23,000

Name:

Grand View University

City:

Des Moines

State:

Distance:

8 miles

Students:

1,800

Healthcare

Healthcare access is convenient, with two major hospitals nearby and 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents. A high percentage of the population (92.8%) has health insurance, ensuring most families can easily obtain medical care.

Major Hospitals

Name:

UnityPoint Health – Iowa Lutheran Hospital

Address:

700 E University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316

Phone:

(515) 263-5612

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Name:

MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center

Address:

1111 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314

Phone:

(515) 247-3121

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Physicians Per 1000:

2.1

Health Insurance Coverage:

92.8%

Health Care Index:

78.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Altoona, IA?

The housing market in Altoona is stable, with a median home price of $265,000 and annual appreciation of 4.2%. Homeownership is high at 76.5%, and rental options are available with a moderate vacancy rate, offering choices for all lifestyles.

Median Home Price:

$265,000

Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:

$1,130

Owner Occupied Rate:

76.5%

Rental Vacancy Rate:

5.6%

Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):

4.2%

New Construction Rate:

2.3%

Foreclosure Rate:

0.3%

DMV Information

Altoona residents are served by the Iowa Department of Transportation's Motor Vehicle Division in nearby Ankeny, providing driver's licensing, vehicle registration, and other DMV services. The convenient location and comprehensive website make managing vehicle needs straightforward.

State:

Iowa

Department:

Iowa Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division

Address:

6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021

Phone:

515-244-8725

Website:

https://iowadot.gov/mvd

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.