Greater Altoona, Laurel Highlands, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
113,069
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,834/yr
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
51,734
0.3% year-over-year change

Greater Altoona population

How many people live in Greater Altoona

Greater Altoona is home to 113,069 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Greater Altoona locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
113,069
0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
55,931
Female
50.5%
57,138
Value Percent YoY change
Male 55,931 49.5% -0.1%
Female 57,138 50.5% 0.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Greater Altoona is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.7% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.6% of the population, while another 26.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.7%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
23.6%
45 to 64
26.2%
Over 65
21.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 18,874 16.7% 0.3%
15 to 24 13,386 11.8% 1.6%
25 to 44 26,744 23.6% -0.1%
45 to 64 29,565 26.2% -1.8%
Over 65 24,501 21.7% 1.2%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Greater Altoona, 98.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.7% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 110,971 98.1% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,221 1.1% 11.0%
Non-citizens 877 0.8% 17.7%
Racial breakdown
White
92.6%
Black or African American
1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 104,654 92.6%
Black or African American 1,964 1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 32 0%
Asian 768 0.7%
Two or more races 5,199 4.6%
Other 452 0.4%

Households in Greater Altoona

A peek inside Greater Altoona households

Greater Altoona has 46,783 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.2% are families, while the remaining 38.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
46,783
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
18,135
Family households
28,649
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 18,135 38.8% 3.2%
Family households 28,649 61.2% -1.7%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Greater Altoona

The housing landscape of Greater Altoona

Greater Altoona's housing consists of 51,734 units, with 71.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 6.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
51,734
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 37,179 71.9%
1 unit, attached 2,076 4%
2 units 2,190 4.2%
3 or 4 units 2,197 4.2%
5 to 9 units 1,118 2.2%
10 to 19 units 1,048 2%
20 to 49 units 840 1.6%
50 or more units 1,649 3.2%
Mobile home 3,432 6.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0%
Homes built since 2020
277
69.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Greater Altoona

In Greater Altoona, the median construction year is 1959. About 29.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 15,325 29.6% 0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,682 9% 1.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 6,807 13.2% 1.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,215 8.2% -1.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 7,171 13.9% -2.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,289 8.3% 2.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,899 7.5% -3.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,481 6.7% 2.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,588 3.1% 3.3%
Built in 2020 or later 277 0.5% 69.9%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Greater Altoona occupancy rates

Out of the 46,783 occupied housing units in Greater Altoona, 73.5% are owner-occupied, while 26.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
46,783
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
12,401
Owner occupied
34,382
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 12,401 26.5% 0.2%
Owner occupied 34,382 73.5% 0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
9.6%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Greater Altoona housing costs

Housing costs in Greater Altoona come to a median of $857 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $817.

Median housing costs per month
$857/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Greater Altoona
$817/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Greater Altoona

Greater Altoona education at a glance

About 49.7% of the population in Greater Altoona went to high school, while 16% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 16.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,838 2% 1.8%
High school diploma 44,802 49.7% -1.4%
College diploma 14,457 16% 0.4%
Associate degree 8,137 9% 3.6%
Bachelor's degree 14,628 16.2% 2.4%
Graduate degree 6,275 7% -2.3%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Greater Altoona

How much people earn in Greater Altoona

The average annual household income in Greater Altoona was $84,520 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,834, reflecting a +3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Greater Altoona
$84,520/year
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Greater Altoona
$65,834/year
3.6% year-over-year change

Greater Altoona income by age

In Greater Altoona, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,344. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $82,813 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,978, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,305 in earnings. Overall, 88.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,978 -5.4%
25 - 44 $77,344 -5.3%
45 - 64 $82,813 11.0%
Over 65 $43,305 -0.8%
Above poverty level
95,999
Below poverty level
12,368
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 95,999 88.6% 0.6%
Below poverty level 12,368 11.4% -5.9%

Employment in Greater Altoona

Workforce and job types in Greater Altoona

73.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.7% run their own businesses, 67.1% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
38,462
Blue collar
13,671
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 38,462 73.8% -0.7%
Blue collar 13,671 26.2% -1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
7.7%
Private companies
67.1%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
10.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,013 7.7% 0.1%
Private companies 35,004 67.1% -2.0%
Governmental workers 7,419 14.2% 3.3%
Not for profit companies 5,697 10.9% -0.3%

Transportation in Greater Altoona

How people get around in Greater Altoona

In Greater Altoona, the average commute time is 142 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 95.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
142 min
132.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 45,253 95.7% -2.0%
Taxicab 47 0.1% 17.5%
Bus or trolleybus 246 0.5% -14.0%
Railroad 2 0% -77.8%
Motorcycle 46 0.1% 58.6%
Bicycle 118 0.2% 25.5%
Walk 1,586 3.4% -7.2%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Greater Altoona by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
16601 33,515 13,615 $58,070 $77,077
16602 26,352 11,574 $55,046 $73,010
16613 1,647 719 $73,785 $91,234
16617 2,392 974 $52,609 $71,474
16625 3,147 1,327 $55,274 $67,160
16631 57 19 $0 $98,384
16635 12,003 5,077 $69,760 $96,800
16637 2,345 1,129 $56,083 $70,164
16641 2,348 959 $65,417 $90,663
15946 6,561 2,866 $55,582 $73,460

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FAQs about Greater Altoona demographics 

What is the total population of Greater Altoona?

Greater Altoona has a total population of 113,069 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Greater Altoona?

The gender ratio in Greater Altoona is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (55,931 residents)
  • 50.5% females (57,138 residents)

What is the median age in Greater Altoona?

The median age in Greater Altoona is 43.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Greater Altoona?

The age distribution in Greater Altoona is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.7% (18,874 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (13,386 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.6% (26,744 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.2% (29,565 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.7% (24,501 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Altoona?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Altoona is as follows:
  • White: 92.6% (104,654 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.7% (1,964 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (32 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (768 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (5,199 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (452 residents)

What percentage of the population in Greater Altoona are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.1% of the population in Greater Altoona.

How many housing units are there in Greater Altoona?

There are 51,734 housing units in Greater Altoona, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Greater Altoona and what is the average household size?

Greater Altoona has a total of 46,783 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Greater Altoona?

Greater Altoona has a median household income of $65,834, representing a +3.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Greater Altoona?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.8% (38,462 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.2% (13,671 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.7% (4,013 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.1% (35,004 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (7,419 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.9% (5,697 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025