Altoona, IA
Population 20,592 · Iowa
About Altoona, IA
Altoona is a mid-sized city in Iowa with a population of 20,592 residents. The median household income is $87,123 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Altoona is 35.5 years.
Housing in Altoona has a median home value of $257,300 and median monthly rent of $1,203. Of the 8,187 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 5,372 owner-occupied and 2,493 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Altoona is 6.7% and the poverty rate is 7.2%. 32.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 23.5 minutes.
How Altoona Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Altoona, IA
Compared to national averages, Altoona has a median household income of $87,123 (16% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $257,300, which is 5% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,203 is 3% above the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Altoona's income is 28% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 95% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Altoona, IA?
Altoona offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $87,123, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 7.2%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 23.5 minutes.
Altoona has a population of 20,592 with a median age of 35.5 years. Compare Altoona with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Altoona
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Liberty | 20,782 | $103,933 | $300,000 | Compare |
| Clive | 18,776 | $131,082 | $379,000 | Compare |
| Coralville | 22,846 | $66,508 | $286,000 | Compare |
| Muscatine | 23,567 | $59,332 | $146,900 | Compare |
| Burlington | 23,800 | $55,274 | $115,800 | Compare |
| Johnston | 24,196 | $103,430 | $346,200 | Compare |
| Clinton | 24,425 | $57,493 | $115,400 | Compare |
| Fort Dodge | 24,788 | $61,769 | $128,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Altoona
What is the population of Altoona, IA?
The population of Altoona, IA is 20,592 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Altoona?
The median household income in Altoona, IA is $87,123 per year.
What is the median home value in Altoona?
The median home value in Altoona, IA is $257,300.
What is the average rent in Altoona?
The median monthly rent in Altoona, IA is $1,203.
What is the unemployment rate in Altoona?
The unemployment rate in Altoona, IA is 6.7%.