Eyeing the right place to open, expand, or relocate your retail business? Altoona, Iowa, continues to stand out as one of Central Iowa’s most active and opportunity-rich retail markets.
With more than $710 million in annual taxable sales, millions of visitors per year, and a steady influx of residents, Altoona offers the visibility, access, and customer base businesses need to succeed. Located just minutes from Des Moines, the city combines strong local spending with regional draw, creating a market that works for both emerging brands and established retailers.
Here’s a rundown on what makes Altoona the ideal spot for retail marketers.
A Market Built for Retail Success
Altoona’s growth is consistent and strategic. The city attracts more than 4 million visitors each year, driven by major destinations like Adventureland Resort, Outlets of Des Moines, and Prairie Meadows.
At the same time, the local population continues to rise—showing an increase of more than 25% in the last 10 years, and 17.5% since 2020—which brings higher household incomes and strong purchasing power. With a median household income exceeding $90,000 (expected to rise to $107,000 by 2029), Altoona consumers are active, engaged, and ready to spend.
For retailers, that means reliable traffic, strong sales potential, and a community that supports local business.
Retail Spaces Available Now
Altoona offers a range of retail opportunities, from high-traffic corridors to growing mixed-use developments. Whether you’re looking for a standalone space or a spot within a larger retail center, there are options ready for your business.
Some featured listings include:
- 208 3rd Street SW | 2,624 SF
Central Altoona location with strong local access.
- 1005 8th Street SW | 3,951 SF
High-visibility space along a key retail corridor.
- 600 8th Street SW | 3,769 SF
Flexible layout suited for a range of retail uses.
- 3053 8th Street SW | 1,295 SF
Positioned near major intersections and growing development.
- Eastpointe Centre (NW Adventureland Drive) | 4,167 SF
Retail center with strong traffic near major attractions.
- Foxton Village (1003 8th Street SW) | 4,155 SF
Turn-key opportunity near expanding residential areas.
- Gateway East (305 NW Adventureland Drive) | 7,635–31,358 SF
Large-scale retail opportunity along a high-traffic corridor.
- Prairie Crossing at Outlets of Des Moines | 5,000–10,000 SF
New development near national anchors and regional spots.
For more details on available properties, contact Economic Development Director Chad Quick at cquick@altoona-iowa.com.
Support to Help You Get Started
Starting or expanding a business comes with important decisions. AltoonaNow provides resources to help guide the process, from site selection to funding and local connections.
Explore the Small Business Resource Guide on our website to access tools, insights, and support designed to help your business move forward with confidence.
Start Building Your Future in Altoona
Altoona continues to invest in its retail environment, and the results speak for themselves. Strong consumer demand, strategic growth, and a supportive business community create the right conditions for long-term success.
Make Altoona the home of your next business location.
