Alton, MO
Population 647 · Missouri
About Alton, MO
Alton is a small community located in Missouri with a population of 647 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,606 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Alton features a median home value of $117,100, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Alton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $594, 49% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 301 total housing units, 62% are owner-occupied (172 units) and 38% are renter-occupied (107 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Alton shows an unemployment rate of 2.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 18.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Alton have an average one-way commute time of 15.2 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
24.6% of Alton 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 2.8% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 4.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Alton, MO
Compared to national averages, Alton has a median household income of $47,606 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $117,100, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $594 is 49% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Alton's income is 22% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 22% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Alton, MO?
Alton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $117,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $594/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.9%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 15.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,606) 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 647 with a median age of 37.2 years. Compare Alton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Alton
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Josephville | 646 | $111,875 | $478,100 | Compare |
| Pilot Grove | 646 | $63,750 | $118,300 | Compare |
| Golden City | 644 | $38,500 | $81,700 | Compare |
| Alba | 654 | $50,662 | $87,000 | Compare |
| Conway | 654 | $34,153 | $78,800 | Compare |
| Queen City | 656 | $48,295 | $66,200 | Compare |
| Trimble | 661 | $65,556 | $193,300 | Compare |
| Bella Villa | 664 | $55,250 | $147,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Missouri
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Alton
What is the population of Alton, MO?
The population of Alton, MO is 647 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Missouri.
What is the median household income in Alton?
The median household income in Alton, MO is $47,606 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Alton?
The median home value in Alton, MO is $117,100, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Alton?
The median monthly rent in Alton, MO is $594, which is 49% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Alton?
The unemployment rate in Alton, MO is 2.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Alton, MO a good place to live?
Alton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 647 and a median age of 37.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Alton, MO?
24.6% of residents in 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 Alton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Alton, MO: median home value is $117,100 (52% below national), median rent is $594/month, and median household income is $47,606. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Alton?
The poverty rate in Alton, MO is 18.2%, 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 Alton, MO?
Alton's population is 2.8% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.1% two or more races. 4.3% of residents are foreign-born.