Living in Alton, summers are hot, with Jul highs around 87.3°F, while winters are cold — Feb lows average 24.6°F. Winter heating is a real budget factor — 4291 degree days means 4-5 months of meaningful energy bills. Annual rainfall reaches 55.4 inches, mostly summer thunderstorms. Median household income: $49,439. With a 24.5% poverty rate and 57.3% homeownership, the community reflects a stable residential mix. Nearby cities: Bethalto (8mi E), Florissant (10mi SW), Bellefontaine Neighbors (11mi S). Air quality is Moderate — avg AQI 53 over the past week.