Cost of Living in Alton, IL
Population 25,430 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The Alton cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $100,000, rents near $948 a month. A poverty rate near 24% adds context to the income figures — well above the US average, and worth factoring into any comparison with cities on the coasts or in the Rockies.
Geographically, Alton sits roughly 20 miles north of St. Louis. Median home values run roughly 46% lower than St. Louis' $185,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Alton
The median home value in Alton is $99,500 — 67% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $948/month, 28% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $53,005/year is 29% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.1%, above the national average of 4.8%. Illinois's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 8.7%. Overall, Alton has a cost of living index of 48 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 52% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Alton, IL?
Alton has a cost index of 48 (100 = national average). It is 52% below the national average.
What is average rent in Alton, IL?
The median gross rent in Alton is $948 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Alton?
The median home value in Alton is $99,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Alton?
The median household income in Alton is $53,005 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Alton, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Alton is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Alton, IL affordable?
Yes, Alton is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 48 — about 52% below the US national average of 100.
Alton at a Glance
- Population
- 25,430
- Median Income
- $53,005
- Home Value
- $99,500
- Median Rent
- $948/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.1%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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