Living in Altoona, Iowa: A Vibrant Hub for Living and Leisure
- Darson Grantham
- Jan 8
- 5 min read
Altoona, Iowa, is a flourishing suburban city located just east of Des Moines. Known for its friendly community, exciting attractions, and excellent amenities, Altoona offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and big-city convenience.
With highlights like Adventureland Resort, Prairie Meadows Casino, and the Outlets of Des Moines, this vibrant city caters to families, professionals, and retirees alike. Whether visiting attractions or considering a permanent move, Altoona’s welcoming atmosphere and dynamic lifestyle make it a standout destination.
In this article, we will cover the following:
Is Altoona, Iowa a Good Place to Live?
Located just a short drive from Des Moines, Altoona, Iowa, offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. This vibrant city is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, robust community programs, and a variety of attractions that cater to residents of all ages. Whether you’re seeking a safe environment, excellent schools, or proximity to entertainment and work opportunities, Altoona consistently ranks as a top choice for families and professionals alike.
With its dynamic mix of small-town charm and modern amenities, Altoona provides a quality of life that’s hard to beat. The city’s strategic location and emphasis on community engagement make it an attractive destination for those looking to settle in the Midwest.
Altoona, Iowa Population and Demographics
Altoona’s population and demographics paint a picture of a thriving and diverse community. Here’s a closer look at the key numbers:
Population: Approximately 22,000 residents call Altoona home. This steady growth reflects the city’s appeal to families, retirees, and young professionals alike.
Median Age: The median age in Altoona is 36.77, highlighting its blend of young families and seasoned residents.
Median Household Income: With a median household income of around $79,482, Altoona boasts economic stability and a solid middle-class presence.
Dynamic Community: The city’s community-oriented events, parks, and recreational facilities foster a sense of belonging. From summer festivals to farmers' markets, Altoona’s dynamic community is one of its most appealing features.
Things to Do in Altoona, Iowa
Altoona offers a variety of activities and attractions that cater to all interests. Here are some popular options:
Adventureland Resort: This family-friendly amusement park is a regional favorite, featuring thrilling rides, a water park, and live entertainment.
Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack & Hotel: For adults seeking excitement, Prairie Meadows offers gaming, live horse racing, and a full-service hotel.
Outdoor Recreation: Altoona’s expansive parks and trails provide ample opportunities for biking, jogging, and picnicking. Popular spots include the Altoona Aquatics Park and Ironwood Park.
Outlets of Des Moines: Frequently host live performances and community events, adding to the city’s vibrant cultural scene and a hub for shopping enthusiasts looking for great deals.
Spring Creek Sports Complex: A sports complex with facilities for baseball, softball, and soccer.
Altoona Dog Park: A dedicated space for dogs to play and socialize.
Terrace Hills Golf Course: A well-maintained golf course offering a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience.
Enabling Garden: A public garden featuring beautiful sculptures and a peaceful environment for visitors.
Haines Park: A local park perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with family and friends.
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Hotels in Altoona, Iowa
Altoona’s hotel options cater to visitors with varying needs and budgets. Some notable accommodations include:
Hampton Inn & Suites Altoona-Des Moines: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, and convenient access to local attractions.
Prairie Meadows Hotel: Located at the casino, this upscale option provides luxury accommodations with an entertainment focus.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites: A great choice for families and business travelers, featuring comfortable rooms and an indoor pool.
Super 8 by Wyndham Altoona: Budget-friendly and conveniently located, this hotel ensures a pleasant stay for cost-conscious visitors.
With these choices, guests can enjoy a comfortable base from which to explore Altoona.
Shopping and Dining in Altoona, Iowa
Altoona’s shopping and dining scene is a delightful mix of local charm and national brands.
Retail Destinations
Olde Town Altoona: A charming historic downtown area filled with small businesses and unique attractions, including bars, restaurants, beauty shops, and a historic feed mill.
Chocolaterie Stam Altoona: A delightful bonbon boutique offering a variety of chocolates, gelato, and coffees.
Hy-Vee Wine & Spirits: A well-stocked supermarket providing a wide range of products, including bakery items, fresh produce, groceries, and health foods.
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World: An iconic shopping destination offering a massive selection of outdoor gear, clothing, and accessories.
Nike Factory Store: A popular outlet store featuring a variety of Nike products at discounted prices.
Local Restaurants in Altoona
Big Steer Restaurant: Known for its steaks and homestyle cooking, this local favorite serves hearty meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Jethro’s BBQ ‘n Jambalaya: A popular spot for barbecue and Southern-inspired dishes.
Local Cafes and Bakeries: Altoona boasts cozy cafes like Smokey Row Coffee for your caffeine fix and sweet treats.
Flip'n Jacks: This fun and casual eatery is famous for its creative pancake dishes and all-day breakfast options, perfect for the whole family.
Community Schools in Altoona, Iowa
Altoona's educational heart beats through the Southeast Polk Community School District, which serves families with a network of four elementary schools alongside comprehensive middle and high school programs. Each school brings its own strengths to the community, from Altoona Elementary's STEM focus to Centennial's early childhood expertise, creating a unified system that guides students from pre-K through graduation.
Southeast Polk Community School District: Serving Altoona and surrounding areas, offering a range of educational programs from preschool through high school.
Altoona Elementary School: Part of the Southeast Polk Community School District, serving grades 3-5 students. Known for its strong emphasis on STEM education and bullying prevention2.
Centennial Elementary School: A pre-kindergarten school within the Southeast Polk Community School District providing early childhood education.
Clay Elementary School: Offers a variety of extracurricular activities and focuses on creating a safe and welcoming learning environment.
Willowbrook Elementary School: Another elementary school in the district that offers comprehensive education and extracurricular opportunities.
Homes for Sale in Altoona, Iowa
The Altoona housing market offers a range of options to fit various lifestyles and budgets. From charming starter homes to spacious family residences, there’s something for everyone.
Single-Family Homes: Modern and traditional designs are available, with many homes located near excellent schools and parks.
New Developments: The city’s growth has spurred the development of new neighborhoods, featuring contemporary amenities and energy-efficient designs.
Affordable Living: With a median home price of around $250,000, Altoona remains an affordable option for homebuyers.
Altoona’s real estate market is competitive, reflecting its desirability as a place to live and raise a family.
Ready to Find Your Dream Home in Altoona, Iowa?
If you’re considering a move to Altoona, Iowa, now is the perfect time to explore your options. With its welcoming community, diverse amenities, and affordable housing, Altoona offers an unparalleled quality of life. If you’re searching for a family home, a starter house, or a new-build property, Altoona has it all.
Contact our team today to learn more about available homes and start your journey to becoming part of this thriving community!
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