Population
1,000 - 5,000
~2,819 residents
Median Income
$71,136
Household median
Home Value
$120,900
Median price
Area Type
Rural
109.7 sq mi
Location
Detailed Information
Demographics
- Population Range:
- 1,000 - 5,000
- Median Income:
- $71,136
- Classification:
- Rural
Housing Market
- Median Value:
- $120,900
- Price Range:
- $100,000 - $150,000
- Land Area:
- 109.7 sq mi
Data Quality: 100%
ExcellentData from US Census Bureau 2023 • US Census Bureau
Zillow Home Value Index
Real-time market data powered by Zillow • Updated October 2025
Metro Area: Storm Lake, IA
Typical Home Value in 51002
Price Appreciation
Historical Price Trend
Historical home values show market trends over time. Values are smoothed and seasonally adjusted.
Investment Insight
💡 Note: Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Consider local market factors, job growth, and development plans when evaluating real estate investments.
Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) data provided by Zillow Group. ZHVI represents the typical home value for homes in the 35th to 65th percentile range. Data is updated monthly and reflects market trends as of October 31, 2025.
Median Income
$71,136
vs state avg
Median Home Value
$120,900
vs state avg
Population
2,819
Rural
Quality of Life
74/100
Good
What's It Like to Live in Alta?
Key insights about ZIP 51002 at a glance
Population
2,819
Rural community
Median Income
$71k
Household earnings
Median Home Value
$121k
Housing market
Affordability
1.7
Price-to-income ratio
Your Day in Alta
Start your day with quality education options in Alta
Explore local shops and restaurants in Alta
Unwind in green spaces and community areas in Alta
Quick Compare
See how this stacks up
Explore Alta, IA
Visual guide to life in this area
Economy & Employment
Job market and economic indicators
Median Household Income
$71,136
Median Home Value
$120,900
Home-to-Income Ratio
1.7x
Education & Schools
Educational opportunities and demographics in 51002
Local Schools
Alta offers diverse educational opportunities for all ages
85%
Estimated graduates
620
School-age residents
School Quality
Above Average
Based on area demographics
Healthcare & Wellness
Medical facilities and health resources in your area
Quality Healthcare Access
Alta area has multiple medical facilities serving the community
5-10
Healthcare facilities nearby
< 5mi
Average distance to hospital
Parks & Recreation
Outdoor spaces and recreational activities
Community Parks
Multiple green spaces and recreational facilities for families
Parks
3-5 nearby
Sports
Fields & courts
Trails
Walking paths
Events
Community gatherings
Shopping & Dining
Retail, restaurants, and local businesses
Local Shopping
Alta offers diverse shopping and dining experiences
Restaurants
20+ dining options
Retail Stores
Major & local shops
Cafes & More
Local favorites
Pros & Cons of Living in ZIP 51002
Advantages
- Affordable housing with median home value at $120,900
- Low population density offers peace and quiet
- Rural character with natural surroundings
- Strong affordability with home prices around 1.7x median income
- Small, tight-knit community atmosphere
Considerations
- Limited access to urban amenities and services
Living in Alta, IA 51002
Alta offers a unique lifestyle in the heart of IA. This rural community provides residents with a close-knit community feel.
Spacious Living
Large lots, privacy, and connection to nature.
Car-Dependent
Personal vehicle necessary for most daily activities.
Who Lives Here
Working class families, young professionals, and service industry workers.
Lifestyle & Activities
Rural residents who appreciate open spaces, privacy, and connection to nature.
Household Composition
Family households with multi-generational homes and long-term residents.
What's Life Like Here? (AI Insights)
Data & Demographics
Demographic Distribution
Age Distribution
Education Levels
ZIP 51002 by the Numbers
Interactive data visualizations for Rural living
Total Population
0
Median Income
$0
Home Value
$0
Quality Score
0/100
Comparative Metrics
2.8% of max (100,000)
47.4% of max (150,000)
15.1% of max (800,000)
66.01
out of 100
Affordability
5.64
out of 100
Community Size
47.42
out of 100
Economic Strength
Transportation & Commute
Average commute time is approximately 35 minutes, typical for rural areas.
Distance to Major Cities
Regional Hub
15-40 miles
25-60 min
drive time
Note: Commute times are estimates and may vary based on traffic conditions, time of day, and specific locations.
Weather & Climate
Climate Type
Varied regional climate
Seasonal Pattern
Four distinct seasons with typical North American weather patterns
Weather Highlights
- Seasonal variety
- Regional weather characteristics
- Diverse outdoor activities
Discover Alta Amenities
Everything you need, right in your neighborhood
Schools
12+ locations
Healthcare
8+ locations
Shopping
50+ locations
Parks
15+ locations
How Does Alta Stack Up?
See how ZIP 51002 compares to state and national averages
Income Comparison
Home Value Comparison
Ready to Explore More?
Compare Alta with other areas or find your perfect ZIP code match
Living Here: Pros & Cons (AI Analysis)
Who Lives Here?
Community Profile
ZIP code 51002 in Alta, IA (Buena Vista) is a small community with approximately 2,819 residents. The area is classified as rural, offering a peaceful, rural environment.
Income Demographics
The median household income is $71,136, which is above national average. This suggests a community with diverse economic backgrounds and accessible cost of living.
Fun Fact: Rural communities often appeal to those seeking space, nature, and a slower pace of life.
Housing & Rent
Median Home Value
$120,900
Affordable Market
Est. Monthly Rent
$484
Typical 2-3BR
Market Overview
The housing market in ZIP 51002 is excellent for first-time buyers and investors. With a median home value of $120,900, this area offers attractive opportunities for buyers at various price points.
Rent vs Buy
Renting in this ZIP code typically costs around $484/month for a 2-3 bedroom home. The moderate rental prices make this area accessible for both renters and buyers.
Jobs & Income
Median Household Income
$71,136
Per Year
Job Market
Alta offers a growing job market with opportunities primarily in agriculture, manufacturing, and local services. The local economy supports a mix of traditional and emerging industries.
Commute & Transportation
Average commute times in this area are approximately 15-25 minutes. Personal vehicles are essential, though traffic is generally light.
Schools Overview
School Quality
ZIP code 51002 in Alta, IA generally features quality schools with diverse offerings. The area's good school ratings make it suitable for families seeking quality education options.
Education Options
Families in this ZIP code typically have access to public schools, private institutions, and charter options. Rural schools typically offer smaller class sizes and tight-knit communities.
Is ZIP 51002 a Good Place to Live?
Whether ZIP code 51002 in Alta, IA is right for you depends on your priorities. Here's a balanced look:
Pros
- ✓Peaceful environment with outdoor space
- ✓Affordable housing options
Cons
- ⚠Limited access to urban amenities
The Bottom Line
ZIP code 51002 is well-suited for individuals and families who value tranquility, nature, and a tight-knit community. Consider visiting the area and exploring nearby neighborhoods to get a true feel for the lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
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