One hundred-year-old brick streets lead the way to a collection of brick and stucco storefronts in downtown Alton. The Illinois city’s core unfurls from the banks of the Mississippi River, hearkening back to the community’s days as an important 19th-century port. The downtown district is dotted with local businesses and is getting an injection of energy thanks to revitalization efforts in recent years. About 25 miles north of St. Louis, the city’s historic character shines through in its classic housing selection. “It’s 30 minutes from St. Louis,” says Matt Horn, a Realtor with Landmark Realty and a lifelong region resident. “It has proximity to the St. Louis-Lambert Airport, and is definitely a bedroom community to St. Louis.”
The steep, brick roads of downtown Alton lead down to the Mississippi River.
State Street Market is in one of the most historic buildings in Alton.
Clark Bridge brings residents to and from Alton across the Mississippi River.
While walking down the residential streets of Alton you will see a mix of styles blended in.
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Established homes are most prevalent around Alton
Alton’s home inventory is scattered north, west and east of downtown. Most homes date to the 19th century and feature colonial and Victorian architectural styles. “When people from the West Coast visit us, they’re amazed by the age of our houses,” says Rick Lauschke, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors who grew up in Alton. “Nothing they have out there compares to Victorian architecture. Part of Alton’s charm is the historic houses with beautiful, original detailing on the cobblestone streets. It’s as nice as anything in a bigger city.” Homes go for anywhere between $18,000 to $500,000, depending on condition and square footage. Homebuyers can also find midcentury bungalows and ranch-style houses from under $20,000 to $250,000. Horn considers housing affordability one of Alton’s biggest draws. Properties sell for $135,434 on average, 55% less than the average in St. Louis and 75% less than the national average. “We sell quite a few homes to people renovating properties,” Horn says.
Brick is one of the building materials used for homes around Alton.
Typical homes in Alton also provide cozy patios.
Classic bungalow and brick architecture line the historic streets of Alton.
Mid-century brick Ranch homes in East Alton are more common on the east side of town.
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Manufacturing is major part of the economy
Olin Corporation and Wieland Rolled Products, two manufacturing companies, have plants in the city and are major employers with nearly 3,000 employees combined. The Alton Memorial Hospital also has 900 workers, and the medical facility has a dedicated cancer and emergency center.
Olin is one of many large manufacturing employers in Alton.
Wieland Corporation is Alton's largest copper and copper-alloy manufacturer.
The Alton Memorial Hospital was founded by Eunice and Ellen Smith in 1936.
The emergency center of Alton Memorial Hospital was added in the mid 1990's.
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Alton Unit School District has 11 campuses
The Alton Community Unit School District 11 has a B-minus overall grade on Niche. The system serves 5,700 students across 11 campuses but keeps its student-teacher ratio at an average of 14-to-1.
Marquette Catholic High School is a private school with a B-plus rating on Niche. Marquette tops Niche’s list of the best private high schools across Madison County and has courses in business, computer science and theology.
Alton Works starting to revitalize downtown
Alton Works is one of the groups injecting new energy into the city’s historic downtown over the last several years. “Local organizations have a plan to rehab some of the older buildings on the waterfront, creating walking paths, office space and denser housing options,” Lauschke says. “It’s an ambitious project but an exciting one.” Alton Works has purchased more than 30 properties downtown to protect and restore them. The group has plans to create districts focused on the arts, innovation and entertainment. While the focus is on the future, the city has mainstays like Tony Steakhouse and Bar, which has been open for more than 65 years, and Schwegel's, a family-owned grocery store that dates to 1937.
Historic retail buildings line the main street of Alton.
Residents of Alton enjoy the walking paths along the Mississippi River.
Tony's Steakhouse and Bar has been serving Alton their Italian specials since 1964.
Schwegel's is a convenient market for Alton residents to shop at.
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Parks scattered across the banks of the Mississippi River
Alton’s riverside location has a big influence on its outdoor attractions. A portion of the roughly 3,000-mile Great River Road runs through the city. The roadway runs parallel to the Mississippi River and provides scenic views and access to multiple parks. According to Hunt, it's the biggest single outdoor draw in the city.
Riverfront Park offers a 4,000-seat outdoor amphitheater that hosts events like the Alton Jazz & Wine Festival in early September. Henry Street Park is the site of the Alton Farmers & Artisans Market, open on Saturdays from May to October. Halloween is a big deal in the city, and its annual parade is over a 100-years old. Featuring floats and costumed participants, it’s one of the oldest Halloween Parades in the country. “That’s the biggest single event of the year,” Horn says.
On Alton's northwest outskirts, Gordon F. Moore Community Park offers more than 700 acres of recreation space. The public Spencer T. Olin Golf Course, one of multiple courses around town, is in the park. The YWCA Southwestern Illinois is an indoor recreation option. Members have access to an indoor pool, fitness center, and classes. It can be a way to beat the heat or the cold in an area that experiences warm summers and chilly winters. Rain can bring flooding to the area, but the city is formulating plans for a permanent flood wall.
A portion of the Great River Road runs through the heart of Alton.
Catch a show at the Alton Amphitheater along the river front.
Many vendors head to downtown Alton for the Alton Farmers Market.
Sponsor and labor memorials sit proudly at the front of Gordon F Moore Community Park.
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St. Louis is conveniently close
Alton residents can hop on U.S. Route 67 for trips toward St. Louis, just over 20 miles south. Route 67 facilitates drives toward the St. Louis Lambert International Airport, the region’s major airport, offering direct flights to more than 70 destinations. Alton also has an Amtrak station, and trains can get people over to St. Louis in under an hour. Locals also use the Amtrak to get north to Chicago in under five hours. The city has several stops in the Madison County Transit bus system.
Crime
Based on data released by the Alton Police Department in September 2024 and reported by RiverBender.com, crime in categories including robbery and burglary dropped from 2021 to 2023. The city’s efforts to curb crime have focused on mitigating youth violence with programs like a summer basketball league.
Written By
Wayne Epps Jr.
Photography Contributed By
Kody Martin
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Jonathan Bradley
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On average, homes in Alton, IL sell after 47 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Alton, IL over the last 12 months is $127,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Step into timeless elegance with this Southern-style estate, perfectly nestled on 2.947 acres. Featuring 5 bedrooms, including a master suite with its own private patio overlooking the estate, a main floor VIP, and a private au pair suite offering unparalleled privacy. The custom-designed kitchen is a culinary dream. Relax in the cozy library or enjoy one of the three wood-burning fireplaces that
BACK ON THE MARKET WITH NO FAULT TO SELLER! CITY OCCUPANCY COMPLETED! Charming and full of potential! This well-maintained home offers 2 comfortable bedrooms plus a versatile third room that would make the perfect office, playroom, or could easily be converted into a third bedroom. The large living room provides plenty of space for relaxing or entertaining guests.The kitchen and living areas
Julie SmithTarrant and Harman Real Estate and Auction Co
Great Curb Appeal for this inviting brick home in Milton Area with 2 bedrooms, super clean full waterproofed basement for more potential living space, 1 car attached garage with opener, concrete drive, kitchen with built in oven and cooktop, and refrigerator. Lower Level has finished walls and suspended ceiling. Laundry area complete with Washer and Dryer. Water heater in 2019, roof in 2022,
Step into timeless elegance with this Southern-style estate, perfectly nestled on 2.947 acres. Featuring 5 bedrooms, including a master suite with its own private patio overlooking the estate, a main floor VIP, and a private au pair suite offering unparalleled privacy. The custom-designed kitchen is a culinary dream. Relax in the cozy library or enjoy one of the three wood-burning fireplaces that
Step into the character and charm of this spacious 4-bedroom, 1.5-bath home located in the heart of historic Alton. Offering over 2,000 square feet of living space, this property blends timeless architectural details with modern updates to create a warm and inviting place to call home.Inside, you’ll find generously sized rooms, tall ceilings, beautiful woodwork, and abundant natural light
ATTENTION INVESTORS! This is a great opportunity to start your rental portfolio or to occupy this property as your primary residence. It would be a great starter home! This 2BR 1BA home is adorable with an updated kitchen, windows, HVAC, and HWH. Basement is great for storage and could add more square footage if the next buyer would like to finish it.
Charming, clean and well cared for home with gorgeous hardwood floors, tall ceilings, and many updates! New front porch & back steps - 2 years ago, new driveway - 7yrs, roof -9 yrs, vinyl siding, soffits, facia, and gutters - 2 yrs, new motor for AC last year, windows-12 yrs. Home offers whole has attic fan, CLEAN basement with nice laundry area and plenty of storage. Wood burning fireplace was
Commonly known as the Haagen Haus, this remarkable Civil War-era residence blends timeless elegance, rich history, and exceptional investment potential in the heart of Alton's charming Christian Hill neighborhood. Showcasing over 4,300 square feet of beautifully appointed living space, this fully furnished property features stunning hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, four fireplaces, attractive
Welcome home to this charming and spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bath property offering plenty of room to spread out and enjoy. The home features a generously sized full bathroom, plus an unconventional lower-level bedroom with windows that provide natural light and flexibility for guests, a home office, or additional living space.Just off the back of the home, you'll find another versatile bonus room
This multi-family property is ready for new beginnings. Located in a historic district, it offers charming surroundings and sweeping views of the Mississippi River. The building has been gutted and is primed for redevelopment, giving investors or owner-occupants a blank slate to create something truly special.With its unbeatable location and strong structural potential, this property is ideal
3-bed/3-bath charmer in historic Alton! New flooring in most of the house! Tons of natural sunlight! Fenced in backyard that is great for entertaining with a large deck and sunrooms! Detached 2-car garage in the rear! Bathrooms on all levels! Tons of kitchen cabinet space! Close to Rock Spring Golf Course & Park, SIUE Dental School and Route 3 for easy commutes! Contact your favorite agent to set
Now available on a spacious double corner lot! Beautiful 4-bedroom, 2-bath home located in the Alton School District, featuring mature trees and established landscaping that enhance curb appeal. A covered front porch provides a welcoming outdoor space for relaxing and enjoying the surroundings. Inside, the home offers a large, open floor plan filled with natural light, creating a bright, warm,
*** FLG Land Ownership Path: Simple Owner Financing, No Bank, No Credit Check ***Founders Land Group owns this lot outright, holds the recorded deed, and closes direct with you. No brokers, no commission buried in the price.Here is the path:Step 1: Book a free property call and we answer everything.Step 2: Place a $50 hold on our website to take the lot off the market
Located in Alton, IL 62002, this 0.36-Acre parcel offers a great opportunity to own residential land in a quiet and established area of Madison County. With nearly half an acre of space, the property provides a comfortable balance of privacy and neighborhood living. The lot offers enough room for a future homesite while still allowing space for outdoor areas such as a yard, garden, or
23-acre property featuring mature timber, tillable acreage, a creek, and a pond. This tract offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to build your dream home, create a weekend getaway, or invest in land, the groundwork is already in place with an established driveway and available utilities. An existing outbuilding provides immediate storage for equipment, tools, or recreational
Enjoy carefree, country living at ReNew at Alton. Our quiet, pet-friendly community features one-bedroom apartment homes as well as two- and three-bedroom townhomes. Our homes feature large bedrooms, spacious bathrooms, and fully equipped kitchens. Enjoy our resort-style pool and spa, on-site coin-operated laundry room, and ample off-street parking. Upgrade to a garage for additional, reserved
Property Id: 1161319 Charming 1940s Mid-Century style 2-bedroom home in Upper Alton just minutes from SIUE Dental School. The house was recently renovated with new interior and exterior finishings. The updates include new flooring, a newly updated kitchen, and a bathroom. The home features beautiful original hardwood floors in the large kitchen area, a spacious living/family room just off
Property Id: 845476 Meticulously detailed, this designer styled home is a true prize located in North Alton with steps-away shopping, dining and doing. Two bedrooms are located on the main street level at the south end of the living space for undisturbed privacy. A third bedroom suite is located on the basement level with walk out access to the backyard. The home features 1.5 bathrooms, a
NEWLY-RENOVATED TWO-BEDROOM SINGLE-FAMILY HOME FOR RENT IN ALTON. This charming bungalow features fresh paint, new flooring, covered front porch, off-street parking, a large eat-in kitchen, two bedrooms, ceiling fans, a full walkout basement with washer & dryer hookups, situated in a lovely neighborhood near amenities such as restaurants, banking, and shopping. This generous owner provides a
PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE DESCRIPTION.HOUSE IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR RENT! HOUSE IS AVAILABLE FOR IN-HOUSE FINANCING!REQUIREMENTS:Gross Household Income: $4,400/moDown Payment: $11,000 minimumMonthly Payment: $1,100/moPet Fee: depends on quantityWonderful 3 bedroom on quiet street in Alton!Your Job is your Credit!This home is available on our
GORGEOUS MIDDLETOWN SINGLE-FAMILY HOME FOR RENT.This completely renovated 2-BR, 1-BA home features oversized granite countertops w/snack bar, farm sink, stainless steel appliances (dishwasher, microwave, refrigerator), main-level laundry with washer & dryer, central air, large closets, and ceiling fans, all situated in the beautiful Middletown Historic District. Sorry, no smoking, vaping, or
Charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home in Alton, IL, featuring fresh paint and an inviting covered porch. The floor plan includes a designated dining room and a full kitchen with refrigerator and stove. A washer and dryer are provided for added convenience, and off-street parking is available. Ideal for those seeking a well-maintained, move-in-ready residence in a convenient location. No Pets. Apply at
Just blocks from downtown Alton this 3-bed / 2-bath is ready for you to call home! Off-street parking with unit entrance in rear! Balcony area off the master bedroom! High ceilings! New kitchen cabinets! Some new flooring! Text Nick to set up a showing today! (6 18)830-9863 By submitting your information on this page you consent to being contacted by the Property Manager and RentEngine
SECOND-FLOOR ONE-BEDROOM APARTMENT NEAR DENTAL SCHOOL FOR RENT. This second-floor apartment features newer tile in bathroom, large deck, access to coin laundry facilities, and off-street parking w/carport. This generous owner provides a stove, refrigerator, lawn care, attic fan, and A/C unit. Sorry, no pets and no smoking or vaping whatsoever on the premises. Candidates will be prescreened prior
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