Altoona
cityAltoona, Iowa, is a vibrant city located in Polk County, part of the Des Moines metropolitan area. With a population of approximately 24,021 in 2026, Altoona blends small-town charm with big-city amenities. Known as the "entertainment capital of Iowa", it attracts over four million visitors annually to its diverse attractions, including Adventureland amusement park and Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack and Hotel. Altoona's economy is diverse, with major employment sectors in retail trade, healthcare, and finance. Key employers include Facebook (Meta) and Walmart, contributing to a skilled local workforce. The city is committed to economic development, fostering a business-friendly environment. Founded in 1868, Altoona was named for the Latin word "altus," meaning "high," due to its location as the highest point on the Des Moines Valley Railroad between Des Moines and Keokuk. Today, Altoona offers a high quality of life with numerous parks, trails, and community organizations, making it a desirable place for families and businesses alike.
Altoona, Iowa
- Classification
- City
- FIPS Code
- 19-01630
- Country
- United States
- County
- Polk
- Region
- Des Moines metropolitan area
- Elevation
- 958 ft
- Total Area
- 11.69 sq mi
- Land Area
- 11.68 sq mi
- Water Area
- 0.01 sq mi
- Latitude
- 41.6442
- Longitude
- -93.4647
- Climate
- Humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. The average high in the summer is around 82°F, while the average low in the winter is around 18°F.
- Neighboring Areas
- Des Moines
- Population (2020)
- 19,565
- Est. Population (2026)
- 24,021
- Median Age
- 36.1
- Median Income
- $87,123
- Poverty Rate
- 7.19%
- Family Households
- 65.9%
- Owner-Occupied
- 68.3%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial makeup of the city was 86.5% White, 4.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Native American, 1.7% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 1.0% from other races, and 6.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.9% of the population.
- Government Type
- Mayor-Council
- Governing Body
- City Council
- Municipal Services
- Water · Sanitary Sewer · Storm Water · Trash · Recycling · Police · Fire
- Unemployment Rate
- 4.6%
- Economic Profile
- Residential · Suburban · Commercial · Entertainment
- Employment Sectors
- Retail Trade · Health Care & Social Assistance · Finance & Insurance
- Major Employers
- Meta · Walmart
- Transportation
- Interstate access · Bike trails
- Utilities
- Water · Sewer · Storm Water · Trash · Recycling · Electricity · Gas · Broadband/Fiber
- Major Facilities
- None
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Adventureland · Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack and Hotel
- Parks & Trails
- Haines Park · Sam Wise Youth Complex · Extensive trail system
- Founded
- 1868
- Incorporated
- 1876
- Named After
- The Latin word "altus," meaning "high"
- Historical Significance
- Altoona's location on the Des Moines Valley Railroad contributed to its initial growth, and it has evolved from a coal mining town to an entertainment and retail hub.
- Key Events
- Land settled in 1854 by Anthony Yant and Gilbert T. Taylor · Railroad arrived in 1867, spurring growth · City plan recorded July 30, 1868 · Altoona Area Historical Society recognized in 2003