Why Live in Altoona
Altoona's rich railroad heritage comes alive at the Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark, where visitors watch trains navigate the engineering marvel through the Allegheny Mountains. The city's outdoor recreation includes Canoe Creek State Park for hiking and fishing, plus winter skiing at Blue Knob All Seasons Resort. History buffs explore the restored Baker Mansion and Fort Roberdeau, while families enjoy Lakemont Park, home to Leap-the-Dips, the world's oldest wooden roller coaster. The dining scene features local favorites like Tom & Joe's Restaurant, serving classic diner fare since 1933, and highly-rated Aoy Thai Restaurant.
The housing market in Altoona presents diverse options across distinct neighborhoods. The median sale price for homes is $134,500, with single-family homes having a median price of $137,000. Mansion Park commands the highest median single-family home prices at $325,000, while Center City provides more affordable options with a median price of $72,500. Other notable neighborhoods include Llyswen with median single-family prices at $190,000 and Highland Park at $249,000.
Property taxes in Altoona remain competitive with a Blair County effective rate of 1.09%, comparing favorably to nearby Johnstown's 1.28% in Cambria County. Pennsylvania's state income tax rate stands at 3.07%, with a combined sales tax rate of 6.34%.
The city's educational landscape includes Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School, rated B+ by Niche, serving multiple neighborhoods including Broad Avenue and Highland Park. Pennsylvania State University Penn State Altoona provides higher education opportunities. AMTRAN supplies public transportation throughout the city, and Altoona's location places it 100 miles from Pittsburgh and 190 miles from Philadelphia.
Home Trends in Altoona, PA
On average, homes in Altoona, PA sell after 41 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Altoona, PA over the last 12 months is $134,500, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$134,500
Median Single Family Sale Price
$134,900
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$195,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$86
Number of Homes for Sale
104
Last 12 months Home Sales
473
Median List Price
$140,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
4%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
0%