Altoona, IA
Population 20,592 · Iowa
About Altoona, IA
Altoona is a mid-sized city located in Iowa with a population of 20,592 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $87,123 per year, which is 16% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Altoona features a median home value of $257,300, which is 5% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Altoona in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,203, 3% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 8,187 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (5,372 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (2,493 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Altoona shows an unemployment rate of 6.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 7.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Altoona have an average one-way commute time of 23.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.6% of Altoona residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 5.9% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 5.2% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Altoona With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Altoona
What is the population of Altoona, IA?
The population of Altoona, IA is 20,592 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Altoona?
The median household income in Altoona, IA is $87,123 per year, which is 16% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Altoona?
The median home value in Altoona, IA is $257,300, which is 5% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Altoona?
The median monthly rent in Altoona, IA is $1,203, which is 3% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Altoona?
The unemployment rate in Altoona, IA is 6.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Altoona, IA a good place to live?
Altoona offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 20,592 and a median age of 35.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Altoona, IA?
32.6% of residents in Altoona 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 Altoona?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Altoona, IA: median home value is $257,300 (5% above national), median rent is $1,203/month, and median household income is $87,123. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Altoona?
The poverty rate in Altoona, IA is 7.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Altoona, IA?
Altoona's population is 5.9% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 3.5% two or more races. 5.2% of residents are foreign-born.