Alton, IL Reviews


7 Reviews



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What BestPlaces Users Say about Alton

Alton, Illinois is a city located in the southern part of the state. It has a population of approximately 26,000 people and is known for its historical significance, including being the hometown of American Civil War general Ulysses S. Grant. It is also home to several parks and outdoor recreational activities, as well as a thriving downtown area with local businesses and restaurants.

Summarize: The reviews from multiple users on BestPlaces paint a diverse picture of living in Alton, Illinois. Many appreciate the city's history and outdoor activities, while others mention concerns about safety and job opportunities. Overall, the reviews highlight the city's small-town charm and affordability.

Review #1: "I absolutely love living in Alton. The downtown area is so charming and there are always fun events happening. Plus, the cost of living is affordable." - Sarah M.

Review #2: "Alton is a great place to raise a family. The schools are good and there are plenty of parks and outdoor activities for kids. However, I do wish there were more job opportunities." - John D.

Review #3: "I've been living in Alton for a few years now and I have to say, I feel safe here. The community is close-knit and there are always people looking out for each other." - Samantha H.

Review #4: "The history of Alton is fascinating, but I do have some concerns about the crime rate. I've witnessed a few incidents and it does make me feel uneasy. But overall, it's a nice place to live." - Mark T.

 based on 7 Reviews
Get to know Alton with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Alton

Headed in the right direction. Come join us! - 7/21/2023
My wife, daughter, and I moved here from Phoenix Metro March 2022 and have been very happy with our move. The people have been great, having four seasons is great, and though yes, crime does exist, I haven't found it to be any worse than any other place I've lived. There is a ton of history here and a very authentic feel. The biggest downsides are yeah, poverty is a visible thing here. There are a lot of amazing, historic, and beautiful homes, but there are also a good amount of homes where you can see the struggle. There's a law firm in town that's putting a ton of money into the community, renovating old buildings, parks, waterways, and trying to make it a green roof community. There's a feeling of Alton heading in a very positive direction after years of decline due to manufacturing leaving. The job market in St. Louis metro seems to be healthy as people I know in area have had no issue finding jobs, though working from home or commuting to St. Louis is probably going to be Read More

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I Love It - 4/27/2023
Not sure why such low reviews. I moved here from St. Louis. Crime in Alton is NOTHING compared to that. Maybe 1 or 2 homicides a year and those are generally people who are related. I've never felt unsafe at any time in any part of the city. The bluff's is the nicest area. I live in East Alton Read More

Alton, IL - 6/17/2015
Unfortunately, Alton has become a run down, poverty stricken area. Jobs are very limited and do not pay well. Unless you plan on commuting to St. Louis for work, you won't be able to find a job that pays a decent wage. Also, the crime from St. Louis trickles right over the bridge connecting Illinois and Missouri. I have lived in the area for my entire life and strongly recommend that you stay far away from the metro east area, especially Alton. If you like closed down businesses and seeing the muddy Mississippi River flow past casino boats, Alton is the place for Read More

Nice place to retire - 10/1/2014
I've been living here for almost 3 years now and have met some wonderful people here. The climate is nice with 4 actual seasons. Unfortunately the economy is depressed and getting worse. Jobs are hard to find and crime is reaching even the best of areas. The abundance of history here was a joy to see but I will be moving away in a years Read More

If you don't like the weather... - 2/6/2010
There is a saying that is often heard in this area of the world...if you don't like the weather, just wait. The weather changes frequently. Not just within a month or a week, but sometimes within one day.

As they say, variety is the spice of Read More

Alton - 10/8/2009
Alton is a quaint river town on the Mississippi river just North East of St. Louis, MO. I do like the individuality of the homes, the tree-lined streets, and the small town feel. There is a great bridge from Alton over to St. Louis that beats anything in the St. Louis area, yet so unused that Alton seems to own it.

I like what I have learned about two Alton citizens of the past - Elijah P. Lovejoy and Robert Read More

I do not live in Alton... - 10/29/2008
thats just the closest thing to my hometown Dorsey Illinois there was. Dorsey isnt in the cities. But what I originally got on here for was to tell you that there is only white people in Dorsey, I'm not racist or anything. I just wanted to help get your information correct.



Thank You.Read More

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