Is Alton Safe, Pros and cons of living in Alton

Alton, Illinois, offers a blend of historical charm and modern living, situated along the Mississippi River. This city, part of the Greater St. Louis metropolitan area, presents a unique lifestyle for its residents. Understanding the various facets of Alton, from its safety and cost of living to its job market and climate, is essential for anyone considering a move to this riverfront community.

The city boasts a population of approximately 25,676 residents as of the 2020 census. Alton’s landscape is characterized by its notable limestone bluffs, adding a scenic element to the urban environment. Its strategic location provides convenient access to larger metropolitan centers, offering a balance between a smaller city feel and proximity to urban amenities.

Is it Safe to Live in Alton?

When considering a move to Alton, understanding the safety landscape is paramount. Crime statistics provide insight into the potential risks and the overall security of the community.

Crime Rates

Alton’s crime rate is a significant factor for potential residents. One analysis indicates that the city has a crime rate of 36 per one thousand residents, which is considered high when compared to communities of all sizes across the U.S.. Your chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Alton is approximately one in 28. Within Illinois, over 97% of communities have a lower crime rate than Alton.

Property crime, including burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft, and arson, is a notable concern, with a chance of becoming a victim of one in 38, or a rate of 27 per one thousand population. Violent offenses, such as rape, murder, armed robbery, and aggravated assault, also contribute to the overall crime rate, with a chance of being a victim of one in 104. NeighborhoodScout’s analysis suggests Alton experiences a higher murder rate compared to many other cities nationwide. Another report states that Alton’s crime rate is 49% higher than the national average, with violent crimes being 69% higher. In Alton, there is a 1 in 32 chance of becoming a victim of crime.

Cost of Living in Alton

The financial aspect of living in Alton is an important consideration for prospective residents. Understanding the cost of daily life, housing, and other expenses can help in budgeting and financial planning.

Overall Cost of Living

Alton’s cost of living is generally more affordable than the national average. According to one calculator, Alton is 10% less expensive than the national average and 14% less expensive than the average city in Illinois. This figure is derived from accumulating costs for food, transportation, healthcare services, rent, utilities, and taxes. Another source indicates that the average cost of living in Alton is $1,653 per month, placing it in the top 37% of the most expensive cities globally, but relatively affordable within the United States and Illinois.

Housing expenses in Alton are notably lower than the national average. Utility prices are also slightly lower than the national average. Transportation expenses, such as gas prices and bus fares, are also below the national average. Food costs in Alton are more affordable than the national average.

Housing Costs

Housing is a significant component of the cost of living, and Alton offers relatively affordable options. The median home value in Alton is approximately $107,110. As of March 2026, the median listing price for homes in Alton was $120,000. Another report from March 2026 indicates that home prices in Alton were up 34.8% compared to the previous year, with a median sale price of $135,000. The median sale price per square foot in Alton is $94, an increase of 35.0% from the previous year.

Rental prices in Alton are also generally lower than the national average. As of March 2026, the median rent across all bedroom counts and property types in Alton was $1,250, which is 35% lower than the national average. Houses for rent in Alton average around $1,312 per month. For apartments, the average monthly rent is $797, with a one-bedroom apartment costing about $700 and a two-bedroom apartment around $800. Zillow reports the average rent in Alton, IL, at $1,049 as of March 31, 2026, with a month-over-month increase of 0.3% and a year-over-year increase of 6.9%.

Job Market and Economy

Alton’s economy is supported by a diverse range of industries and employers. Understanding the job market and average salaries can provide insight into employment opportunities within the city.

Major Employers

Several key employers contribute to Alton’s economic landscape. Major employers in the Riverbend region, which includes Alton, are Alton Community Unit School District #11, Alton Memorial Hospital, American Water, Argosy Casino, Challenge Unlimited, Global Brass and Copper, Inc., Lewis and Clark Community College, Olin Corporation, Phillips 66 Wood River Refinery, and OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center. Alton Memorial Hospital is a significant employer, operating as an acute-care community hospital with a wide range of services. Alton Steel is another major employer, operating as a steel manufacturer and a reincarnation of the former Laclede Steel Company.

Other notable companies in the manufacturing sector include International Paper, Conagra Brands, Teledyne, and Winchester Ammunition. Lewis and Clark Community College is also a substantial presence, recognized as the fastest-growing community college in Illinois. These diverse employers span healthcare, manufacturing, education, and service industries, offering a variety of employment opportunities.

Average Salary and Unemployment

The average salary in Alton, Illinois, provides a benchmark for earning potential. As of March 2026, the average annual salary in Alton is reported to be $86,230, translating to an approximate hourly wage of $41. However, other sources present different figures, with one indicating an average salary of $67,732 per year or $33 per hour. Another source states the average salary in Alton, IL, is $46,000, with an average hourly pay of $22.00. A more recent report from April 2026 suggests the average annual salary in Alton is $49,039, or approximately $23.58 per hour.

The unemployment rate in Alton has seen some fluctuations. In August 2025, Alton’s unemployment rate was 5.5%, down from 5.6% a year earlier. More recently, as of March 2026, the unemployment rate in Alton, IL, was 5.60%, compared to 5.20% the previous month and 4.50% the previous year. This rate is lower than the long-term average of 7.81%. The employment rate in Alton, IL, is currently 93.22%.

Climate and Weather

Alton, Illinois, experiences distinct seasons with varying temperatures and precipitation throughout the year.

Temperatures and Rainfall

Throughout the year, temperatures in Alton generally range from 21°F to 88°F. The hot season typically lasts from late May to mid-September, with daily high temperatures averaging above 79°F. July is the hottest month, with an average high of 88°F and an average low of 70°F. The cold season spans from late November to late February, with average daily high temperatures below 49°F. January is the coldest month, with an average low of 25°F and a high of 40°F.

Alton receives an average of 43 inches of precipitation annually. May is typically the wettest month, with an average of 4.0 inches of rain. January receives the least rain, averaging 1.5 inches. The city experiences about 13 inches of snowfall annually. Summers can feel uncomfortably humid from July to August.

Education in Alton

The educational landscape in Alton is served by the Alton Community Unit School District No. 11, which provides services for students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

School Ratings and Performance

Alton Community Unit School District No. 11 has received a C+ overall Niche grade, with a rating of 3.79 out of 5. The district has a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1, with 5,660 students in grades PK-12. According to state test scores, 16% of students are proficient in math and 24% in reading. The district is ranked #48 out of 604 for diversity in Illinois schools and #422 out of 600 for having the best teachers.

Alton High School, serving grades 9-12, has a B- rating from Niche and a rating of 3.64 out of 5. It ranks #111 out of 712 for most diverse public high schools in Illinois and #377 out of 684 for best public high school teachers. The school has a student-teacher ratio of 18 to 1, with 1,909 students. State test scores indicate 18% of students are proficient in math and 26% in reading. The district faces challenges, including high rates of chronic absenteeism and disparities in proficiency rates across its schools.

Demographics of Alton

Alton’s population is diverse, with a mix of racial and ethnic backgrounds. Understanding these demographics provides a clearer picture of the community’s composition.

Population and Diversity

Alton is home to a population of approximately 25,300 people. As of 2024, 99% of Alton residents are citizens, which is higher than the national average. The racial composition includes a majority of White (Non-Hispanic) residents, accounting for approximately 17,400 people. Black or African American residents make up the second-largest group, with about 4,840 individuals.

In 2024, 2.61% of Alton residents were born outside the country, a figure similar to the national average. The median age in Alton is 38 years. For every 100 females, there are approximately 90.1 males. The population is distributed across various age groups, with significant percentages in the 30-39, 10-19, and 60-69 age ranges.