2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Decatur, IL vs Alton, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Alton older or younger than people in Decatur?
- The Median Age in Alton is 1.8 years younger than in Decatur.

Are housing costs cheaper in Alton or Decatur?
- Alton housing costs are 4.7% less expensive than Decatur housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Alton or Decatur?
- The average commute for residents of Alton is 6.6 minutes longer than it is for residents of Decatur.

Things to do in Decatur?
Decatur, Illinois is a vibrant city located in the Midwestern United States. Home to attractions such as Scovill Zoo and Nelson Park, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and nature when visiting Decatur. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as Macon County History Museum and Richland Community College Performance Center. For entertainment, visitors can explore downtown shopping districts and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Decatur has something for everyone!

Things to do in Alton?
Alton, Illinois is a picturesque town located in Madison County and renowned for its charming downtown, historic sites, and outdoor recreational activities. It offers plenty of things to do for explorers, from visiting the Alton Museum of History or fishing at Gordon F. Moore Park to strolling along Third Street for some unique local shopping or playing a round of golf at Rock Spring Golf Course. Visitors can also explore local attractions such as Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower or shop at nearby malls such as Alton Square Mall. With easy access to cities like St. Louis and Springfield, Alton makes an ideal destination for visitors seeking an unforgettable experience close to urban amenities.

 Decatur, ILAlton, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock25,902329,725,481
 Median Income$45,111  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock38.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$83,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.47  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Decatur    14 Reviews

I was sent here by the company I worked for in the '90's and was not initially impressed with midwest living. However, over the years I got used to living in the "Pride  More

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I grew up in Decatur and I still have family there, but it depresses me to see what it has become. It has a high unemployment rate, many business have closed or are run  More

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Over 14 years ago

If you enjoy drinking & driving, Decatur's fifteen drive-thru liquor windows, three times the # of drive-thru's than the ten largest cities in Illinois, COMBINED, will  More

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Reviews for Alton    7 Reviews

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  More

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Over 2 years ago

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  More

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Over 10 years ago

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  More

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