Alton, TX
Population 19,205 · Texas
About Alton, TX
Alton is a mid-sized city located in Texas with a population of 19,205 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,777 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 26.7 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 Alton features a median home value of $126,600, which is 48% 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 $981, 16% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,585 total housing units, 61% are owner-occupied (3,169 units) and 39% are renter-occupied (2,008 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 8.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 28.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Alton have an average one-way commute time of 28.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.9% of 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 97.6% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 27.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Alton, TX
Compared to national averages, Alton has a median household income of $48,777 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $126,600, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $981 is 16% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, Alton's income is 33% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 40% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in Alton, TX?
Alton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $126,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $981/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,777) 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 19,205 with a median age of 26.7 years. Compare Alton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near Alton
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orange | 19,178 | $60,183 | $147,200 | Compare |
| Cinco Ranch | 19,139 | $157,395 | $459,500 | Compare |
| Lakeway | 19,130 | $164,978 | $695,400 | Compare |
| Terrell | 19,019 | $63,795 | $190,000 | Compare |
| Crowley | 19,007 | $92,599 | $241,500 | Compare |
| Seagoville | 18,968 | $68,020 | $221,300 | Compare |
| Boerne | 19,509 | $86,838 | $437,100 | Compare |
| Palestine | 18,888 | $46,228 | $153,400 | 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 Alton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Alton
What is the population of Alton, TX?
The population of Alton, TX is 19,205 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Texas.
What is the median household income in Alton?
The median household income in Alton, TX is $48,777 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Alton?
The median home value in Alton, TX is $126,600, which is 48% 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, TX is $981, which is 16% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Alton?
The unemployment rate in Alton, TX is 8.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Alton, TX a good place to live?
Alton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 19,205 and a median age of 26.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Alton, TX?
12.9% 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, TX: median home value is $126,600 (48% below national), median rent is $981/month, and median household income is $48,777. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Alton?
The poverty rate in Alton, TX is 28.1%, 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, TX?
Alton's population is 97.6% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 0.2% two or more races. 27.2% of residents are foreign-born.