West Alton, MO
Population 511 · Missouri
About West Alton, MO
West Alton is a small community located in Missouri with a population of 511 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $128,438 per year, which is 71% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.7 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in West Alton features a median home value of $156,300, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. This positions West Alton in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,313, 13% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 223 total housing units, 94% are owner-occupied (150 units) and 6% are renter-occupied (9 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Alton shows an unemployment rate of 3.3%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 1.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in West Alton have an average one-way commute time of 28.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.9% of West 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 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How West Alton Ranks in Missouri
Cost of Living in West Alton, MO
Compared to national averages, West Alton has a median household income of $128,438 (71% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $156,300, which is 36% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,313 is 13% above the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, West Alton's income is 110% above the state average of $61,047, and home values are 4% above the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in West Alton, MO?
West Alton offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $128,438, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $156,300, below the US average of $244,900, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.3%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 1.8%, better than the national average.
West Alton has a population of 511 with a median age of 36.7 years. Compare West Alton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near West Alton
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Melle | 510 | $103,750 | $407,100 | Compare |
| Union Star | 510 | $57,907 | $84,500 | Compare |
| Smithton | 509 | $51,875 | $87,500 | Compare |
| Matthews | 506 | $44,013 | $101,800 | Compare |
| Ridgeway | 525 | $37,188 | $65,700 | Compare |
| Beverly Hills | 495 | $47,955 | $73,300 | Compare |
| Niangua | 495 | $36,667 | $87,500 | Compare |
| Platte Woods | 528 | $126,250 | $312,800 | 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 West Alton
What is the population of West Alton, MO?
The population of West Alton, MO is 511 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 West Alton?
The median household income in West Alton, MO is $128,438 per year, which is 71% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Alton?
The median home value in West Alton, MO is $156,300, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Alton?
The median monthly rent in West Alton, MO is $1,313, which is 13% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Alton?
The unemployment rate in West Alton, MO is 3.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is West Alton, MO a good place to live?
West Alton offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 511 and a median age of 36.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is West Alton, MO?
21.9% of residents in West 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 West Alton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Alton, MO: median home value is $156,300 (36% below national), median rent is $1,313/month, and median household income is $128,438. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Alton?
The poverty rate in West Alton, MO is 1.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is West Alton, MO?
West Alton's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.6% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.