Is Altoona Safe, Pros and cons of living in Altoona
Altoona, Pennsylvania, offers a blend of small-city charm and accessible amenities, making it a notable place to consider for those seeking a change of pace. The city provides a distinct character shaped by its industrial heritage and a landscape that merges urban convenience with proximity to natural beauty.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview for individuals contemplating a move to Altoona. It delves into various aspects of life in the city, from safety and cost of living to employment opportunities and local climate, offering practical insights to aid in decision-making.
Is it Safe to Live in Altoona?
When considering a move, understanding the safety of a community is paramount. Altoona presents a complex picture regarding crime rates, with data indicating a need for careful consideration.
The city’s violent crime rate is reported as 334.72 per 100,000 residents in 2024 (according to the FBI UCR data). This rate is slightly lower than the national average among all cities that reported crime, with 335 incidents per 100,000 people compared to the national average of 359 (according to AreaVibes). However, other reports indicate that Altoona has a crime rate considerably higher than the national average across all communities, with a chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime at 1 in 45 (according to NeighborhoodScout). The FBI UCR data for 2024 shows a total of 142 violent crimes and 795 property crimes in Altoona (according to the FBI UCR data).
Cost of Living
Altoona’s cost of living presents an attractive proposition for many, particularly when compared to national averages. The city’s overall cost of living is noted as being 7% lower than the U.S. national average as of 2026 (according to Salary.com). This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, making it a potentially budget-friendly option for residents.
Housing costs are a significant contributor to Altoona’s lower cost of living. The average rent in Altoona is approximately $979 per month as of March 2026 (according to Zillow), and the average home value is around $134,583 (according to Zillow). These figures are substantially lower than national averages, making both renting and homeownership more accessible.
Housing Costs
The housing market in Altoona offers a range of options for potential buyers and renters. The median listing price for homes in Altoona was approximately $144,000 as of March 2026 (according to Realtor.com® Research). This median price indicates a market that is generally more affordable than many other areas across the country.
For those interested in renting, the average rent in Altoona was $1,130 as of March 2026 (according to Zillow). This figure is 43.5% lower than the national average rent of $2,000 (according to Zillow). The rental market provides a more flexible housing solution for individuals and families.
Median Home Price and Rent
Altoona’s real estate market is characterized by accessible price points. The median home value in Altoona is $134,583 as of March 2026 (according to Zillow). This median value is significantly below the national median home value, which is approximately $332,700 (according to BestNeighborhood.org).
Regarding rental prices, the average rent in Altoona is $1,130 per month as of March 2026 (according to Zillow). This average rent is considerably lower than the national average, offering a more affordable option for housing.
Job Market and Economy
Altoona’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers, contributing to its overall economic stability. Understanding the local job market is crucial for anyone considering a relocation for employment opportunities.
The unemployment rate in Altoona, PA, was reported at 4.60% as of the latest available data, which is lower than the long-term average of 6.39% (according to YCharts). This suggests a relatively stable job market with opportunities for employment.
Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate provides a key indicator of the local job market’s health. As of the most recent data, Altoona’s unemployment rate stands at 4.60% (according to YCharts). This figure is lower than the long-term average for the area, indicating a degree of economic resilience.
While specific monthly fluctuations occur, the overall trend suggests that the job market is not experiencing exceptionally high unemployment. This can provide a sense of security for those seeking employment in the area.
Major Employers
Several key institutions and companies form the backbone of Altoona’s employment landscape. These major employers offer a variety of job opportunities across different sectors.
Leading employers in the Blair County area include UPMC Altoona, Sheetz Inc., State Government, Federal Government, and the Altoona Area School District (according to the Center for Workforce Information & Analysis). These organizations represent significant contributions to the local economy and job market.
Average Salary
The average salary in Altoona, PA, provides insight into the earning potential for residents. It is important to note that salaries can vary significantly by industry and occupation.
For office and administrative support occupations, the average annual salary in Altoona was $25,140, with a median hourly wage of $10.93 (according to The Rainforest). For retail salespersons, the average annual salary was $19,300 (according to The Rainforest). These figures should be considered alongside the cost of living when evaluating financial feasibility.
Climate
Altoona experiences a climate typical of the northeastern United States, with distinct seasons throughout the year. Understanding the local weather patterns can help in preparing for daily life and outdoor activities.
The city generally experiences warm summers and cold winters, with moderate precipitation spread across the year. Average annual temperatures and rainfall are important factors for residents to consider.
Temperatures and Rainfall
Altoona, Pennsylvania, has an average annual temperature with a significant seasonal variation. The average maximum temperature reaches about 58.2°F (14.6°C), while the average minimum temperature is around 39.2°F (4.0°C) (according to El Dorado Weather). Summers are warm, with average high temperatures in July reaching the low 80s Fahrenheit, while winters are cold, with average low temperatures in January falling into the teens Fahrenheit.
The average annual precipitation in Altoona is approximately 43.67 inches (according to El Dorado Weather). This rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter periods in the spring and summer months and generally drier periods in the winter.
Education
Altoona offers a range of educational opportunities for its residents, from K-12 schooling to higher education institutions. The quality of local schools is a significant factor for families with children and for individuals pursuing further education.
The Altoona Area School District serves the K-12 student population, with various elementary, middle, and high schools contributing to the educational landscape.
School Ratings
Educational institutions in Altoona receive varying ratings based on academic performance, student-teacher ratios, and other factors. Niche.com provides ratings for local schools and districts.
The Altoona Area School District generally receives a “B minus” overall Niche grade, with specific schools receiving varied ratings (according to Niche). For instance, Altoona Area High School has a “B+” grade (according to Niche). These ratings offer a general indication of school quality.
Demographics
Altoona’s population is characterized by its demographic makeup, which includes details on race, age, and other population statistics. Understanding these demographics can provide insight into the community’s composition.
The city’s population is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of other racial and ethnic groups. The median age and age distribution also offer a picture of the community’s generational makeup.
Population Statistics
Altoona, Pennsylvania, has an estimated population of approximately 43,196 people as of the latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates (according to Census Dots). The population has seen a slight decrease from the 43,963 recorded in the 2020 Census.
The racial distribution shows a significant White majority, with 88.0% identifying as White. Other reported demographics include 5.8% Multiracial, 3.6% Black, 1.6% Hispanic, 0.8% Asian, and 0.2% Native American/Other (according to Census Dots).
Age and Diversity
The median age in Altoona is around 39.6 years, which is slightly older than the national median of 38.8 years (according to Neilsberg). This suggests a community with a notable proportion of its population in the middle-aged and older brackets.
While the population is predominantly White, Altoona is considered less diverse than Pennsylvania overall. The share of White residents is considerably higher than the state average, where 73% of the population is White (according to Census Dots).