| Statistic | Altoona | Iowa | National |
| Population | 18,917 | 3,155,070 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,620 | 57 | 91 |
| Median age | 36.7 | 38.0 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 59% | 60% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 51% | 44% | 43% |
| Speak English | 96% | 92% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 1% | 4% | 13% |
The population in Altoona is 18,917, while the population density is 1,620 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 36.7, with 59% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 51% having children under 18. In terms of household income equality in Altoona, 10% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 23% report an income exceeding $150,000. The Altoona demographics data can provide invaluable insight into the composition, dynamics and needs of urban and rural areas, enabling planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively for the promotion of prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents in the area.
The Altoona racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown could be indispensable tools for recognizing and rectifying systemic inequities, fostering social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities. In Altoona, the racial breakdown reveals 91.1% White, 4% Black or African American, 0.8% Asian, 0.6% American Indian and 1.1% Native Hawaiian, with 4.1% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 95.6% reported speaking English only, while 1.4% reported speaking Spanish only. Moreover, 4.1% of residents were classified as foreign-born.
Areas like Altoona that have a higher than average population density tend to support environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling and the use of public transit, promoting sustainable lifestyles and reducing environmental impact. Densely populated areas also tend to have more vibrant social and cultural scenes, with a diverse population contributing to a wide array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This diversity fosters creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. The Altoona population density is higher than average and comes in at 1,620 people per square mile (compared to the nationwide average of 91), putting it in a position to take advantage of all the benefits of a densely populated area.
A family-friendly city like Altoona can place a strong emphasis on the well-being and requirements of families, establishing an atmosphere where children flourish, parents receive ample support and families collectively enjoy a superior quality of life. These cities are renowned for nurturing a tight-knit community, where neighbors actively support and watch out for each other. Additionally, they often feature outstanding educational opportunities, including top-tier schools, well-equipped libraries and diverse extracurricular activities. Access to quality education is indispensable for the holistic development and future achievements of children. By prioritizing the welfare of its inhabitants, such cities evolve into dynamic and resilient communities where families can genuinely thrive. In Altoona, 51% of families have children under the age of 18, and 59% of residents aged over 15 are married. These demographic characteristics position this locality to fully reap the rewards of being a family-friendly area.
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 Altoona 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.
Understanding Populations: Analyzing and interpreting the Altoona demographic data provides us with valuable insights into the characteristics and composition of populations, encompassing age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and other socio-economic variables. This understanding is crucial for addressing the diverse needs, preferences and challenges encountered by various demographic groups within communities. Demographics play a crucial role in understanding populations, informing decision-making processes, and advancing equity, inclusion, and overall well-being for all individuals and communities. The Altoona population and demographic data serves as a foundation for addressing social, economic and environmental challenges, while also nurturing the well-being and resilience of societies.
Policy Planning: At various levels of government and within organizations and businesses, demographic data and statistics serve as essential tools for guiding policy and decision-making processes. Through the examination and interpretation of Altoona demographic stats and data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas requiring attention, allocate resources judiciously and design policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic segments. The utilization of Altoona demographic data plays a pivotal role in policy formulation by informing resource allocation, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, predicting future trends, assessing policy effectiveness, and advancing principles of equity and inclusivity. Through effective utilization of this data, policymakers can craft policies that are targeted, efficient, and responsive to the diverse needs of communities.
| Race | Altoona | Iowa | National |
| White | 91.09% | 90.90% | 73.35% |
| Black | 3.97% | 3.32% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.79% | 2.14% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.61% | 0.32% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 1.09% | 0.08% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 2.18% | 1.97% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.26% | 1.27% | 4.75% |
Here are the best places to live in Iowa
See the best places to live in & around Altoona
Top 10 best public schools in Altoona
These are the 10 most affordable cities in Iowa