East Alton, IL
Population 5,729 · Illinois
About East Alton, IL
East Alton is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 5,729 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $46,926 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.2 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in East Alton features a median home value of $99,600, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. This makes East Alton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $819, 30% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,159 total housing units, 63% are owner-occupied (1,718 units) and 37% are renter-occupied (1,029 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in East Alton shows an unemployment rate of 3.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in East Alton have an average one-way commute time of 22.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.9% of East Alton residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 2.1% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in East Alton, IL
Compared to national averages, East Alton has a median household income of $46,926 (38% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $99,600, which is 59% below the national median. Monthly rent at $819 is 30% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, East Alton's income is 37% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 40% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in East Alton, IL?
East Alton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $99,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $819/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.5%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($46,926) that falls below the national average. However, East Alton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
East Alton has a population of 5,729 with a median age of 45.2 years. Compare East Alton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near East Alton
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hillsboro | 5,693 | $48,158 | $95,800 | Compare |
| Genoa | 5,685 | $79,343 | $201,600 | Compare |
| Northfield | 5,683 | $180,492 | $807,700 | Compare |
| Du Quoin | 5,780 | $47,632 | $78,000 | Compare |
| Carterville | 5,822 | $65,238 | $183,500 | Compare |
| Lake Bluff | 5,834 | $205,735 | $739,400 | Compare |
| Peoria Heights | 5,834 | $62,083 | $118,000 | Compare |
| Bartonville | 5,854 | $67,674 | $128,000 | 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 East Alton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about East Alton
What is the population of East Alton, IL?
The population of East Alton, IL is 5,729 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Illinois.
What is the median household income in East Alton?
The median household income in East Alton, IL is $46,926 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in East Alton?
The median home value in East Alton, IL is $99,600, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in East Alton?
The median monthly rent in East Alton, IL is $819, which is 30% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in East Alton?
The unemployment rate in East Alton, IL is 3.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is East Alton, IL a good place to live?
East Alton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 5,729 and a median age of 45.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is East Alton, IL?
15.9% of residents in East Alton aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in East Alton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for East Alton, IL: median home value is $99,600 (59% below national), median rent is $819/month, and median household income is $46,926. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in East Alton?
The poverty rate in East Alton, IL is 14.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is East Alton, IL?
East Alton's population is 2.1% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.6% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.