River Falls, WI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,719
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$83,627/yr
7.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,133
4.4% year-over-year change

River Falls population

How many people live in River Falls

River Falls is home to 16,719 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.8% of River Falls locals are male, and 52.2% are female.

Total population
16,719
2.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.8%
7,987
Female
52.2%
8,732
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,987 47.8% 3.3%
Female 8,732 52.2% 1.3%
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 River Falls is 29, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.3% are children under 15, then 32.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.7% of the population, while another 20.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
28.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.3%
15 to 24
32.3%
25 to 44
21.7%
45 to 64
20.1%
Over 65
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,389 14.3% 2.5%
15 to 24 5,400 32.3% -1.8%
25 to 44 3,632 21.7% 1.4%
45 to 64 3,357 20.1% 10.8%
Over 65 1,941 11.6% 1.8%
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 River Falls, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 93.4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,326 97.6% 3.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 239 1.4% -27.1%
Non-citizens 154 0.9% -35.3%
Racial breakdown
White
93.4%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
4.4%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 15,624 93.4%
Black or African American 33 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 13 0.1%
Asian 202 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 15 0.1%
Two or more races 737 4.4%
Other 95 0.6%

Households in River Falls

A peek inside River Falls households

River Falls has 5,754 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.6% are families, while the remaining 41.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,754
4.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,382
Family households
3,372
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,382 41.4% 0.3%
Family households 3,372 58.6% 7.2%
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 River Falls

The housing landscape of River Falls

River Falls's housing consists of 6,133 units, with 51.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 12.6% 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 2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,133
4.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,178 51.8%
1 unit, attached 773 12.6%
2 units 189 3.1%
3 or 4 units 484 7.9%
5 to 9 units 432 7%
10 to 19 units 276 4.5%
20 to 49 units 540 8.8%
50 or more units 141 2.3%
Mobile home 120 2%
Homes built since 2020
267
40.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in River Falls

In River Falls, the median construction year is 1990. About 10.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 628 10.2% 7.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 151 2.5% -0.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 263 4.3% 5.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 596 9.7% 14.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 838 13.7% 14.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 617 10.1% -3.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 903 14.7% 21.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,210 19.7% -10.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 660 10.8% -7.7%
Built in 2020 or later 267 4.4% 40.5%
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.

River Falls occupancy rates

Out of the 5,754 occupied housing units in River Falls, 55.1% are owner-occupied, while 44.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,754
4.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,584
Owner occupied
3,170
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,584 44.9% 13.5%
Owner occupied 3,170 55.1% -2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
6.2%
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.

River Falls housing costs

Housing costs in River Falls come to a median of $1,266 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,107.

Median housing costs per month
$1,266/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 River Falls
$1,107/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 River Falls

River Falls education at a glance

About 21.6% of the population in River Falls went to high school, while 33.6% pursued college studies. Another 8.8% earned an associate degree and 26.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 38 0.3% -17.4%
High school diploma 2,986 21.6% 0.9%
College diploma 4,644 33.6% -2.8%
Associate degree 1,220 8.8% -10.5%
Bachelor's degree 3,723 26.9% 20.1%
Graduate degree 1,218 8.8% -7.0%
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 River Falls

How much people earn in River Falls

The average annual household income in River Falls was $99,677 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $83,627, reflecting a +7.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in River Falls
$99,677/year
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in River Falls
$83,627/year
7.1% year-over-year change

River Falls income by age

In River Falls, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $96,806. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,972 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,369 in earnings. Overall, 84.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,250 20.4%
25 - 44 $96,806 6.3%
45 - 64 $94,972 2.1%
Over 65 $60,369 3.9%
Above poverty level
12,239
Below poverty level
2,171
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,239 84.9% 5.8%
Below poverty level 2,171 15.1% -10.7%

Average renter income in River Falls

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in River Falls, their median household income was $44,456 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$44,456
Rent-to-income ratio
29.9%
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 River Falls

Workforce and job types in River Falls

The job market in River Falls is powered by 9,889 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 3.6% run their own businesses, 69% are employed by private companies, and 17.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,889
3.5% year-over-year change
White collar
7,856
Blue collar
2,033
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,856 79.4% 3.7%
Blue collar 2,033 20.6% 2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
3.6%
Private companies
69%
Governmental workers
17.8%
Not for profit companies
9.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 360 3.6% -12.0%
Private companies 6,827 69% 7.3%
Governmental workers 1,763 17.8% -6.1%
Not for profit companies 939 9.5% 3.5%
Unemployment rate
3.3%
1.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in River Falls stands at 3.3%, 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 River Falls

How people get around in River Falls

In River Falls, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 80.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
2.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,683 80.1% 4.0%
Bicycle 12 0.1% 0.0%
Walk 695 7.2% -9.2%
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 River Falls by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
54022 24,789 8,799 $96,642 $118,389

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FAQs about River Falls demographics 

What is the total population of River Falls?

River Falls has a total population of 16,719 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 +2.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in River Falls?

The gender ratio in River Falls is as follows:
  • 47.8% males (7,987 residents)
  • 52.2% females (8,732 residents)

What is the median age in River Falls?

The median age in River Falls is 28.6.

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

The age distribution in River Falls is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.3% (2,389 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 32.3% (5,400 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.7% (3,632 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.1% (3,357 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.6% (1,941 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of River Falls?

The racial and ethnic makeup of River Falls is as follows:
  • White: 93.4% (15,624 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (33 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (13 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (202 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (15 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.4% (737 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (95 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in River Falls.

How many housing units are there in River Falls?

There are 6,133 housing units in River Falls, reflecting a +4.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

River Falls has a total of 5,754 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in River Falls?

River Falls has a median household income of $83,627, representing a +7.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.7% in River Falls, with a workforce of 9,889 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.4% (7,856 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.6% (2,033 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 3.6% (360 residents)
  • Private companies: 69% (6,827 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.8% (1,763 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.5% (939 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