River Falls, WI
Population 16,349 · Wisconsin
About River Falls, WI
River Falls is a mid-sized city located in Wisconsin with a population of 16,349 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $78,078 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 27.9 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in River Falls features a median home value of $299,800, which is 22% above the national median of $244,900. This positions River Falls in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,050, 10% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,877 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (3,242 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (2,277 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in River Falls shows an unemployment rate of 3.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 17.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in River Falls have an average one-way commute time of 21.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
44.1% of River Falls residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 1.2% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 2.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in River Falls, WI
Compared to national averages, River Falls has a median household income of $78,078 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $299,800, which is 22% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,050 is 10% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, River Falls's income is 8% above the state average of $72,579, and home values are 46% above the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in River Falls, WI?
River Falls offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $78,078, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,050/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.4%. Additionally, the city features a well-educated community where 44.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 21.4 minutes.
River Falls has a population of 16,349 with a median age of 27.9 years. Compare River Falls with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near River Falls
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bellevue | 16,255 | $80,750 | $267,700 | Compare |
| Menomonie | 16,548 | $54,587 | $203,800 | Compare |
| Beaver Dam | 16,629 | $68,757 | $189,800 | Compare |
| Weston | 15,784 | $75,565 | $215,900 | Compare |
| Ashwaubenon | 16,931 | $71,180 | $245,100 | Compare |
| Hartford | 15,761 | $74,252 | $261,300 | Compare |
| Whitewater | 15,705 | $49,000 | $211,800 | Compare |
| Kaukauna | 17,237 | $78,353 | $198,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Wisconsin
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare River Falls With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about River Falls
What is the population of River Falls, WI?
The population of River Falls, WI is 16,349 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Wisconsin.
What is the median household income in River Falls?
The median household income in River Falls, WI is $78,078 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in River Falls?
The median home value in River Falls, WI is $299,800, which is 22% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in River Falls?
The median monthly rent in River Falls, WI is $1,050, which is 10% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in River Falls?
The unemployment rate in River Falls, WI is 3.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is River Falls, WI a good place to live?
River Falls offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 16,349 and a median age of 27.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is River Falls, WI?
44.1% of residents in River Falls aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in River Falls?
Key cost-of-living indicators for River Falls, WI: median home value is $299,800 (22% above national), median rent is $1,050/month, and median household income is $78,078. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in River Falls?
The poverty rate in River Falls, WI is 17.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is River Falls, WI?
River Falls's population is 1.2% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 0.6% two or more races. 2.5% of residents are foreign-born.