2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Iowa City, IA vs Alton, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Alton older or younger than people in Iowa City?
- The Median Age in Alton is 12.0 years older than in Iowa City.

Are housing costs cheaper in Alton or Iowa City?
- Alton housing costs are 70.1% less expensive than Iowa City housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Alton or Iowa City?
- The average commute for residents of Alton is 6.0 minutes longer than it is for residents of Iowa City.

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!

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.

 Iowa City, IAAlton, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock25,902329,725,481
 Median Income$51,925  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock38.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$265,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.05  Unlock26.38
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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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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