Central Falls, RI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
22,701
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$49,285/yr
7.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,426
1.0% year-over-year change

Central Falls population

How many people live in Central Falls

Central Falls is home to 22,701 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.5% of Central Falls locals are male, and 47.5% are female.

Total population
22,701
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.5%
11,917
Female
47.5%
10,784
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,917 52.5% 1.3%
Female 10,784 47.5% 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 Central Falls is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.6% are children under 15, then 15.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32.5% of the population, while another 19.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 10.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.6%
15 to 24
15.3%
25 to 44
32.5%
45 to 64
19.9%
Over 65
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,899 21.6% -2.4%
15 to 24 3,470 15.3% 3.1%
25 to 44 7,374 32.5% 2.7%
45 to 64 4,519 19.9% -7.4%
Over 65 2,439 10.7% 19.7%
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 Central Falls, 47.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 22% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 30.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 20.9% of locals are Caucasian, 11.1% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 35.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
47.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
22%
Non-citizens
30.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,701 47.1% -10.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,989 22% 15.9%
Non-citizens 7,011 30.9% 12.3%
Racial breakdown
White
20.9%
Black or African American
11.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
35.8%
Other
31.6%
Value Percent
White 4,743 20.9%
Black or African American 2,524 11.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 117 0.5%
Asian 13 0.1%
Two or more races 8,131 35.8%
Other 7,173 31.6%

Households in Central Falls

A peek inside Central Falls households

Central Falls has 7,683 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68% are families, while the remaining 32% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,683
2.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,460
Family households
5,223
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,460 32% 9.7%
Family households 5,223 68% -0.4%
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 Central Falls

The housing landscape of Central Falls

Central Falls's housing consists of 8,426 units, with 10.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
8,426
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 893 10.6%
1 unit, attached 504 6%
2 units 1,855 22%
3 or 4 units 3,523 41.8%
5 to 9 units 697 8.3%
10 to 19 units 40 0.5%
20 to 49 units 97 1.2%
50 or more units 817 9.7%
Homes built since 2020
47
2.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Central Falls

In Central Falls, the median construction year is 1944. About 47.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,018 47.7% 3.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 540 6.4% -25.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 584 6.9% 105.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 386 4.6% -22.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 748 8.9% 5.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 617 7.3% -21.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 368 4.4% -36.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 402 4.8% 17.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 716 8.5% 41.2%
Built in 2020 or later 47 0.6% 2.2%
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.

Central Falls occupancy rates

Out of the 7,683 occupied housing units in Central Falls, 25.6% are owner-occupied, while 74.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,683
2.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,718
Owner occupied
1,965
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,718 74.4% 6.9%
Owner occupied 1,965 25.6% -8.1%
Unoccupied housing units
8.8%
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.

Central Falls housing costs

Housing costs in Central Falls come to a median of $1,260 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,200.

Median housing costs per month
$1,260/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 Central Falls
$1,200/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 Central Falls

Central Falls education at a glance

About 46.8% of the population in Central Falls went to high school, while 16.1% pursued college studies. Another 4.6% earned an associate degree and 8.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 1.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,870 23.1% 8.9%
High school diploma 7,849 46.8% 0.2%
College diploma 2,699 16.1% 2.5%
Associate degree 763 4.6% 4.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,403 8.4% -2.3%
Graduate degree 186 1.1% -21.2%
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 Central Falls

How much people earn in Central Falls

The average annual household income in Central Falls was $59,182 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $49,285, reflecting a +7.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Central Falls
$59,182/year
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Central Falls
$49,285/year
7.3% year-over-year change

Central Falls income by age

In Central Falls, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,703. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $47,317 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,369, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $29,332 in earnings. Overall, 75.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,369 64.4%
25 - 44 $53,703 -4.2%
45 - 64 $47,317 6.9%
Over 65 $29,332 2.6%
Above poverty level
16,222
Below poverty level
5,166
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,222 75.8% -2.5%
Below poverty level 5,166 24.2% 7.6%

Average renter income in Central Falls

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Central Falls, their median household income was $34,531 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 41.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,531
Rent-to-income ratio
41.7%
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 Central Falls

Workforce and job types in Central Falls

The job market in Central Falls is powered by 10,079 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.9% run their own businesses, 78.7% are employed by private companies, and 9.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,079
6.5% year-over-year change
White collar
6,799
Blue collar
3,280
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,799 67.5% 8.9%
Blue collar 3,280 32.5% 2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
5.9%
Private companies
78.7%
Governmental workers
9.1%
Not for profit companies
6.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 599 5.9% 45.7%
Private companies 7,928 78.7% 3.9%
Governmental workers 913 9.1% 17.8%
Not for profit companies 639 6.3% -0.8%
Unemployment rate
7.9%
-17.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Central Falls stands at 7.9%, 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 Central Falls

How people get around in Central Falls

Commuting methods vary: 73% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,114 73% -2.8%
Taxicab 19 0.2% 26.7%
Bus or trolleybus 414 4.2% 29.4%
Subway or elevated 41 0.4% N/A
Railroad 27 0.3% N/A
Motorcycle 12 0.1% N/A
Walk 348 3.6% 36.5%
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 Central Falls by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02863 22,701 7,683 $49,285 $59,182

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FAQs about Central Falls demographics 

What is the total population of Central Falls?

Central Falls has a total population of 22,701 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Central Falls?

The gender ratio in Central Falls is as follows:
  • 52.5% males (11,917 residents)
  • 47.5% females (10,784 residents)

What is the median age in Central Falls?

The median age in Central Falls is 32.5.

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

The age distribution in Central Falls is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.6% (4,899 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.3% (3,470 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 32.5% (7,374 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.9% (4,519 residents)
  • Over 65: 10.7% (2,439 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Central Falls?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Central Falls is as follows:
  • White: 20.9% (4,743 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11.1% (2,524 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (117 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (13 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 35.8% (8,131 residents)
  • Other: 31.6% (7,173 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 47.1% of the population in Central Falls.

How many housing units are there in Central Falls?

There are 8,426 housing units in Central Falls, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Central Falls has a total of 7,683 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Central Falls?

Central Falls has a median household income of $49,285, representing a +7.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.1% in Central Falls, with a workforce of 10,079 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.5% (6,799 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.5% (3,280 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.9% (599 residents)
  • Private companies: 78.7% (7,928 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.1% (913 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.3% (639 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