Alto, TX
Population 825 · Texas
About Alto, TX
Alto is a small community located in Texas with a population of 825 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $56,719 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.2 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 Alto features a median home value of $177,800, which is 27% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Alto in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $496, 57% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 522 total housing units, 42% are owner-occupied (164 units) and 58% are renter-occupied (229 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Alto shows an unemployment rate of 9.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 36.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Alto have an average one-way commute time of 21 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.6% of Alto 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 28.8% White, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 19.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How Alto Ranks in Texas
Cost of Living in Alto, TX
Compared to national averages, Alto has a median household income of $56,719 (25% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $177,800, which is 27% below the national median. Monthly rent at $496 is 57% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, Alto's income is 22% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 16% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in Alto, TX?
Alto offers affordable housing with a median home value of $177,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $496/month, and short commute times averaging just 21 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,719) that falls below the national average. However, Alto’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Alto has a population of 825 with a median age of 35.2 years. Compare Alto with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near Alto
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bremond | 824 | $78,611 | $92,400 | Compare |
| Ector | 826 | $61,731 | $148,100 | Compare |
| Knox City | 822 | $41,477 | $59,300 | Compare |
| Camp Wood | 829 | $47,008 | $63,300 | Compare |
| Thunderbird Bay | 820 | $48,179 | $73,900 | Compare |
| Mertzon | 819 | $60,956 | $121,700 | Compare |
| Orange Grove | 833 | $56,875 | $119,900 | Compare |
| Meadow | 834 | $60,000 | $64,000 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Texas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Alto With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Alto
What is the population of Alto, TX?
The population of Alto, TX is 825 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Texas.
What is the median household income in Alto?
The median household income in Alto, TX is $56,719 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Alto?
The median home value in Alto, TX is $177,800, which is 27% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Alto?
The median monthly rent in Alto, TX is $496, which is 57% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Alto?
The unemployment rate in Alto, TX is 9.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Alto, TX a good place to live?
Alto offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 825 and a median age of 35.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Alto, TX?
17.6% of residents in Alto 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 Alto?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Alto, TX: median home value is $177,800 (27% below national), median rent is $496/month, and median household income is $56,719. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Alto?
The poverty rate in Alto, TX is 36.6%, 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 Alto, TX?
Alto's population is 28.8% White, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 23.0% two or more races. 19.3% of residents are foreign-born.