Alton, IL
Population 25,430 · Illinois
About Alton, IL
Alton is a mid-sized city in Illinois with a population of 25,430 residents. The median household income is $53,005 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Alton is 38.4 years.
Housing in Alton has a median home value of $99,500 and median monthly rent of $948. Of the 12,513 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 6,178 owner-occupied and 4,633 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Alton is 5.1% and the poverty rate is 24.5%. 21.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 23.7 minutes.
Cost of Living in Alton, IL
Compared to national averages, Alton has a median household income of $53,005 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $99,500, which is 59% below the national median. Monthly rent at $948 is 18% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Alton's income is 29% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 40% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Alton, IL?
Alton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $99,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $948/month, and short commute times averaging just 23.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,005) that falls below the national average. However, Alton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Alton has a population of 25,430 with a median age of 38.4 years. Compare Alton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Alton
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Chicago | 25,434 | $100,568 | $306,500 | Compare |
| Morton Grove | 24,687 | $106,078 | $377,000 | Compare |
| Lockport | 26,228 | $113,252 | $298,800 | Compare |
| Woodstock | 26,316 | $83,293 | $231,100 | Compare |
| Homer Glen | 24,516 | $128,546 | $400,000 | Compare |
| Melrose Park | 24,513 | $64,740 | $265,000 | Compare |
| Belvidere | 24,510 | $62,462 | $153,100 | Compare |
| Zion | 24,466 | $62,574 | $179,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Illinois
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Alton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Alton
What is the population of Alton, IL?
The population of Alton, IL is 25,430 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Alton?
The median household income in Alton, IL is $53,005 per year.
What is the median home value in Alton?
The median home value in Alton, IL is $99,500.
What is the average rent in Alton?
The median monthly rent in Alton, IL is $948.
What is the unemployment rate in Alton?
The unemployment rate in Alton, IL is 5.1%.