2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Altoona, IA vs Iowa City, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Iowa City older or younger than people in Altoona?
- The Median Age in Iowa City is 10.1 years younger than in Altoona.

Are housing costs cheaper in Iowa City or Altoona?
- Iowa City housing costs are 4.0% less expensive than Altoona housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Iowa City or Altoona?
- The average commute for residents of Iowa City is 4.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Altoona.

Things to do in Altoona?
Altoona, IA is an inviting town northeast of Des Moines full of amazing places to explore like Adventureland Park presenting its distinctive landscape or Ewing Park hosting outdoor activities; their annual event Altoona Days brings people together with food and games every August.

Things to do in Iowa City?
Iowa City, Iowa is a vibrant city located in the Midwestern United States. Home to attractions such as The University of Iowa and The Old Capitol Museum, visitors can explore outdoor activities and historical sites when visiting Iowa City. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as The Kalona Historical Village and Studio Arts. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Iowa City has something for everyone!

 Altoona, IAIowa City, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock74,240329,725,481
 Median Income$83,514  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock26.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$276,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.2  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Altoona    0 Reviews

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Reviews for Iowa City    24 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

I was there 5 years. Nothing to do but we’ll go shopping... at Walmart. It lacks so many things. There is no experience here, it jumps on any political band wagon and  More

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Over 5 years ago

Entertainment lacks greatly - especially the Hancher shows. I was hoping after they rebuilt they would be getting better shows there, that didn't happen. One has to  More

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Over 7 years ago

Iowa City is great. It's diverse and never boring. There always a variety of new shops and restaurants to explore and try out. Also watching college kids do stupid  More

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