| Statistic | Alton | Illinois | National |
| Population | 26,490 | 12,671,821 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,689 | 228 | 91 |
| Median age | 38.1 | 37.4 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 46% | 55% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 46% | 44% | 43% |
| Speak English | 97% | 77% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 1% | 13% | 13% |
Understanding the demographics of Alton is essential for gaining insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of any city, town or village. This knowledge empowers planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively, promoting prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Alton population is 26,490, with a population density of 1,689 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 38.1, and 46% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 46% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Alton, 27% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 9% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.
Recognizing the racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown of Alton is pivotal for addressing systemic inequities, championing social justice and inclusion and fostering resilient communities. In Alton, the racial breakdown comprises 69.9% White, 24.3% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, 0% American Indian, and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 1.9% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. 97.2% of households reported speaking English only, while 1.3% reported speaking Spanish only. Furthermore, 1.5% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.
Alton has a population density that is well above-average, which plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Its compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, active transportation modes like walking and cycling and the utilization of public transit, fostering sustainable lifestyles and mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the area's dense population contributes to a vibrant social and cultural scene, featuring a diverse array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity fuels creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enhancing the community's social fabric. Alton has a population density of 1,689 people per square mile, exceeding the national average of 91 and positions itself in a good spot to reap the benefits of densely populated areas.
Education Allocation: Utilizing census data like Alton demographics can be useful in guiding education planning, as it helps identify student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data assists schools and policymakers in allocating resources and devising effective educational programs. It serves as a vital tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among various demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status and students with disabilities. By disaggregating data based on demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support and outcomes for marginalized students. In essence, Alton demographic statistics can play an indispensable role in education by promoting equity, bolstering student success and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to meet the needs of all students.
Social Cohesion: The analysis and understanding of demographics are essential for promoting social cohesion and fostering appreciation among diverse communities. By embracing and acknowledging differences in Alton demographics, societies can promote inclusivity, diversity and social harmony while addressing social inequalities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics can reflect the diversity within a population and are instrumental in fostering inclusive and welcoming communities. Embracing ethnic diversity strengthens social connections, promotes cultural understanding and enriches society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Healthcare Planning: By analyzing the Alton demographic data, it can potentially inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities, and risk factors. Understanding demographic trends helps healthcare providers and policymakers allocate resources, develop prevention and intervention programs, and address health inequities within communities. By leveraging demographic data, healthcare providers and policymakers can work towards achieving equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive approach to healthcare planning ensures that interventions are targeted, resources are allocated efficiently, and healthcare services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of populations.
| Race | Alton | Illinois | National |
| White | 69.89% | 72.14% | 73.35% |
| Black | 24.34% | 14.30% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.43% | 5.10% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.05% | 0.23% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.03% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 4.68% | 2.34% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.61% | 5.86% | 4.75% |
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