Cedar Falls, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
40,888
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,987/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,804
1.2% year-over-year change

Cedar Falls population

How many people live in Cedar Falls

Cedar Falls is home to 40,888 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Cedar Falls locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
40,888
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
19,785
Female
51.6%
21,103
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,785 48.4% 1.9%
Female 21,103 51.6% -0.7%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Cedar Falls is 29, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.6% are children under 15, then 30.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.7% of the population, while another 17.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16% are 65 or older.

Median age
29.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.6%
15 to 24
30.2%
25 to 44
21.7%
45 to 64
17.4%
Over 65
16%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,978 14.6% -1.7%
15 to 24 12,363 30.2% 5.2%
25 to 44 8,877 21.7% -3.4%
45 to 64 7,113 17.4% 3.6%
Over 65 6,557 16% -3.1%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Cedar Falls, 95.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1.4% are African American and 3.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.9%
Non-citizens
1.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 39,079 95.6% 1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,178 2.9% -3.2%
Non-citizens 631 1.5% -28.0%
Racial breakdown
White
91.7%
Black or African American
1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.1%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 37,481 91.7%
Black or African American 579 1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 90 0.2%
Asian 1,349 3.3%
Two or more races 1,278 3.1%
Other 111 0.3%

Households in Cedar Falls

A peek inside Cedar Falls households

Cedar Falls has 15,908 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53% are families, while the remaining 47% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,908
2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,473
Family households
8,435
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,473 47% 3.1%
Family households 8,435 53% 1.2%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Cedar Falls

The housing landscape of Cedar Falls

Cedar Falls's housing consists of 16,804 units, with 59.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 3.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,804
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,979 59.4%
1 unit, attached 1,140 6.8%
2 units 581 3.5%
3 or 4 units 678 4%
5 to 9 units 837 5%
10 to 19 units 1,292 7.7%
20 to 49 units 567 3.4%
50 or more units 1,148 6.8%
Mobile home 582 3.5%
Homes built since 2020
278
139.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cedar Falls

In Cedar Falls, the median construction year is 1975. About 12.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,127 12.7% -7.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 716 4.3% 18.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,096 12.5% 5.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,114 12.6% 1.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,724 16.2% 9.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 824 4.9% -4.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,791 10.7% -16.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,848 11% 3.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,286 13.6% 0.8%
Built in 2020 or later 278 1.6% 139.7%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Cedar Falls occupancy rates

Out of the 15,908 occupied housing units in Cedar Falls, 64% are owner-occupied, while 36% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,908
2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,733
Owner occupied
10,175
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,733 36% -1.7%
Owner occupied 10,175 64% 4.4%
Unoccupied housing units
5.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Cedar Falls housing costs

Housing costs in Cedar Falls come to a median of $1,269 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,203.

Median housing costs per month
$1,269/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Cedar Falls
$1,203/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Cedar Falls

Cedar Falls education at a glance

About 22.5% of the population in Cedar Falls went to high school, while 28.8% pursued college studies. Another 10.4% earned an associate degree and 23.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 191 0.6% 12.3%
High school diploma 7,586 22.5% 4.2%
College diploma 9,736 28.8% -3.6%
Associate degree 3,511 10.4% -5.1%
Bachelor's degree 7,827 23.2% 6.2%
Graduate degree 4,909 14.5% -0.6%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Cedar Falls

How much people earn in Cedar Falls

The average annual household income in Cedar Falls was $104,352 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,987, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cedar Falls
$104,352/year
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cedar Falls
$76,987/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Cedar Falls income by age

In Cedar Falls, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $93,305. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $105,785 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,375, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $71,904 in earnings. Overall, 84.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,375 10.9%
25 - 44 $93,305 3.0%
45 - 64 $105,785 3.0%
Over 65 $71,904 -1.5%
Above poverty level
30,998
Below poverty level
5,799
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,998 84.2% 0.4%
Below poverty level 5,799 15.8% 1.8%

Average renter income in Cedar Falls

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Cedar Falls, their median household income was $41,055 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$41,055
Rent-to-income ratio
35.2%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Cedar Falls

Workforce and job types in Cedar Falls

The job market in Cedar Falls is powered by 22,695 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 64.9% are employed by private companies, and 18.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
22,695
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
18,845
Blue collar
3,850
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 18,845 83% 0.5%
Blue collar 3,850 17% 1.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
64.9%
Governmental workers
18.2%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,736 7.6% -8.3%
Private companies 14,733 64.9% 4.9%
Governmental workers 4,134 18.2% -7.0%
Not for profit companies 2,092 9.2% -4.0%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
23.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cedar Falls stands at 3.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Cedar Falls

How people get around in Cedar Falls

In Cedar Falls, the average commute time is 14 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
14 min
0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 18,391 82.2% 2.3%
Taxicab 7 0% 16.7%
Bicycle 136 0.6% 16.2%
Walk 1,293 5.8% -14.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Cedar Falls by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50613 43,867 17,126 $78,503 $105,181

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FAQs about Cedar Falls demographics 

What is the total population of Cedar Falls?

Cedar Falls has a total population of 40,888 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cedar Falls?

The gender ratio in Cedar Falls is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (19,785 residents)
  • 51.6% females (21,103 residents)

What is the median age in Cedar Falls?

The median age in Cedar Falls is 29.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cedar Falls?

The age distribution in Cedar Falls is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.6% (5,978 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 30.2% (12,363 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.7% (8,877 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.4% (7,113 residents)
  • Over 65: 16% (6,557 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cedar Falls?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cedar Falls is as follows:
  • White: 91.7% (37,481 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.4% (579 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (90 residents)
  • Asian: 3.3% (1,349 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.1% (1,278 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (111 residents)

What percentage of the population in Cedar Falls are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.6% of the population in Cedar Falls.

How many housing units are there in Cedar Falls?

There are 16,804 housing units in Cedar Falls, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Cedar Falls and what is the average household size?

Cedar Falls has a total of 15,908 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cedar Falls?

Cedar Falls has a median household income of $76,987, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Cedar Falls?

The employment rate is 96.1% in Cedar Falls, with a workforce of 22,695 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83% (18,845 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17% (3,850 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (1,736 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.9% (14,733 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.2% (4,134 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (2,092 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025