$285,891Average Value$196Average Price per Sq Ft88Homes For Sale
A friendly small town anchored by the University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls is a small city of about 40,000 people in Black Hawk County, Iowa. It's anchored by the University of Northern Iowa, a public school with about 9,000 students. The town features an active art community, recreation opportunities and bike lanes, which provide an alternative to driving. Cory Hurless is the cultural programs supervisor for the Hearst Center for the Arts, a city-operated art center, and she recently moved to Iowa from Austin, Texas, to find a similar art scene at a lower cost of living. "The fact that it's a university town was attractive for me to move," she says. "It's a similar feeling to Austin in that way." She grew up in Michigan and immediately felt comfortable returning to her Midwestern roots. "The Midwestern friendliness that I remember as a kid is still here," she says. She's adjusted well to her new environment and has enjoyed getting involved in the community without breaking the bank. "Everybody's kind," she says. "We're able to live comfortably here. For a small town, there's a lot to offer. It's just a nice, peaceful place to live with friendly neighbors. It's a very quaint town where I get the feeling that people actually care about their community."
Cedar Falls is proud to be the home of the University of Northern Iowa.
Downtown Cedar Falls is a hub of local shops, restaurants, culture, and small businesses.
1/2
Historic Victorians to new traditional single-family homes and townhouses
The median home price in Cedar Falls is about $280,000, which is less than the national average of about $407,000. Historic Victorian style homes can be found in and around downtown, while the city's outskirts contain primarily new Traditional single-family homes and townhouses. The city's average home value has steadily increased since 2020, from about $200,000 to around $275,000. "The neighborhoods are clean," Hurless says. "I don't see anything that makes me feel unsafe or looks rough. I can tell people take care of their properties and homes. There's a lot of community pride here."
Historic homes can be found surrounding the small Downtown Cedar Falls area.
Larger, modern homes are going up on the west side of Cedar Falls.
1/2
The Hearst Center for the Arts and the Gallagher Performing Arts Center
In Hurless' opinion, Cedar Falls is artsier than other small Midwestern cities, which was a major draw for her. "Not a lot of cities in Iowa have a city-operated art center. That spoke to me, that the town was open or liberal in the idea of arts and culture in a small town," she says. She moved to Cedar Falls to work for the Hearst Center for the Arts. "What I operate is a small municipal art center that's meant to service the community," she says. "We have a rotation of free art exhibits throughout the year and our own schedule of theater and music performances and classes for adults and kids. If you're living here and want to explore different creative outlets, we offer everything from ceramics to painting and drawing. We're focused on developing creativity throughout a person's life cycle." In addition to offering classes, the Hearst also has events. "We had a Christmas concert last night," Hurless adds. "Our venue holds about 100 people, so it's more of an intimate experience. We set up the art gallery like a 17th-century parlor and had a harpsichord and full orchestra playing some Christmas tunes, but it sounded like a Jane Austen novel. Things like that are unique when compared to other towns this size." She adds that the university also offers cultural opportunities at venues like the Gallagher Performing Arts Center, which brings in award-winning comedy and musical acts.
Hearst Center for the Arts features local artwork alongside classes and programs for all ages.
The Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center on UNI's campus is a major cultural hub of Cedar Falls.
1/2
UNI football and the Cedar Falls Pickleball Club
Living in Cedar Falls is about more than just the arts, the city also offers lots of opportunities for watching and playing sports. "The UNI football team has a large, enclosed space to play football, and that's hard to find in the Midwest," says Hurless. "That's an attraction for a lot of people who visit Cedar Falls." Those looking to get active can participate in the Cedar Falls Pickleball Club. "The pickleball league is huge here. It's a very passionate group. Pickleball is so big that the city had to double the number of courts. There are pickleball leagues all over Iowa, but there are few places with enough courts to hold a proper tournament. We had eight, and we added another eight, so you can hold a proper tournament here."
The UNI-Dome is home to Panthers football games, as well as expos and conventions.
The Cedar Falls Pickleball Club has their own court complex at Orchard Hill Park.
1/2
Cedar Falls Community School District and the University of Northern Iowa
The Cedar Falls Community School District receives an A-minus rating from Niche. The city also has several private schools, including Valley Lutheran School, St. Patrick Catholic School and River Hills School. The public University of Northern Iowa is also located in Cedar Falls. Its five colleges offer over 90 majors, and in the fall of 2023, its enrollment was just over 9,000 students.
Cedar Falls High School is the main public high school in town.
The University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls has around 9,000 students and 160 majors.
1/2
Shopping, dining and entertainment along Main Street
"Cedar Falls has a very robust downtown district," explains Hurless. "Downtown Cedar Falls is beautiful in the traditional Americana way. It's full of small shops and doesn't look abandoned like other downtowns. You can tell the downtown is thriving. On the weekend, you can go to the bar and have a drink, have a nice meal or go to the shops." Popular restaurants along Main Street include The Horny Toad American Bar & Grill, Pump Haus Pub & Grill and Montage, an upscale eatery with a rooftop patio. Also downtown is the Cedar Falls Community Theatre, where "The performances are top-notch," Hurless says. "I just went to a show last weekend, and the local talent here is very good. Sometimes you can get various quality performances if you live around different places, but you can tell that Cedar Falls definitely has a community of people who are artistically inclined."
Main Street in Downtown Cedar Falls lights up every night to welcome locals and visitors alike.
Cedar Falls residents love the expansive draft beer list and quirky decor of The Horny Toad Bar & Grill.
1/2
Snowy winters, humid summers and low crime rates in Black Hawk County
Though Cedar Falls experiences snowy winters, they're relatively mild compared to other snowy U.S. climates. "For us, we might get maybe a foot of snow if it's really robust, but it's usually light dustings," Hurless says. "Waking up to snow on the ground this morning was beautiful, and I loved it," she says. "I forgot how much I love the snow and missed it." Compared to her Michigan upbringing, winters in Cedar Falls are moderate. "In Michigan, it could be a blizzard, and people are out driving. Here in Iowa, people are a lot more fearful of the roads," she says. "If there's a weather event, people are like, 'Oh no, you can't go out.' It does get cold; we get some snow, but it's nothing like Colorado or what I was used to in Michigan." In the summers, "It does get humid, and the cornfields contribute to that," she says. "The condensation and water vapor create a more humid atmosphere, but it doesn't last long. It might be hot for a few days up to a week, then you get a break." Cedar Falls experiences far less violent crime than the U.S. at large. In December 2023, the Black Hawk County Sheriff's Office reported 16 violent crimes per 100,000 people, while the U.S. reported 119.
Biking, Met Transit and Cedar Falls Medical Center
Cedar Falls is a car-dependent city with options to bike around town. "Riding bikes is fun here," Hurless says. "When the weather is nice, I don't even have to worry about driving my car. There are plenty of bike lanes, so I ride my bike everywhere. It does feel quaint. I can ride my bike to work and stop at the grocery store or go downtown." Cedar Falls has a bus provided by Met Transit, and flights are available at the Waterloo Regional Airport. Its closest major cities are Des Moines, 105 miles southwest, Minneapolis, 192 miles north, and Chicago, 275 miles east. Cedar Falls can be accessed via U.S. Highways 20, 63 and 218. Interstate 380 connects it to the neighboring town of Waterloo. The city has its own hospital, Cedar Falls Medical Center.
Written By
Ellen Daly
Photography Contributed By
Drew Davis
Video By
Mike Dunleavy
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Rick Bauer,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Cedar Falls, IA sell after 39 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Cedar Falls, IA over the last 12 months is $280,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Discover The Terraces, an exclusive new neighborhood nestled on the west side of Cedar Falls. These homes are more than just places to live - they are architectural masterpieces designed for those who crave a lifestyle of beauty, simplicity, and connection. With a nod to mid-century modern aesthetics, each home embodies a minimalist elegance, featuring clean lines, open spaces, and seamless
This 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is full of opportunity and ideally situated just minutes from the shops, restaurants, and conveniences of downtown Main Street. Previously rented at $1,800 per month, it presents a strong option for immediate cash flow and long-term appreciation. Recent improvements include a brand-new driveway, updated siding, and fresh interior paint. An enclosed porch adds extra
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and practicality in this new construction home located in The Arbors 5th Addition. This thoughtfully designed home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 3-stall attached garage, offering 1,584 square feet on the main floor. Step inside to an inviting open-concept layout, where the living, dining, and kitchen areas seamlessly flow together. The kitchen
Spacious and inviting, this condo offers room to spread out and enjoy comfortable living. The vaulted ceilings in the great room create an open, airy feel, while the electric fireplace adds the perfect touch of warmth for chilly days. The great room flows seamlessly into the inviting kitchen, featuring new countertops, abundant cabinetry for storage, and a comfortable dining area ideal for
*Completely finished and move-in ready!* Discover The Terraces, an exclusive new neighborhood nestled on the west side of Cedar Falls. These homes are more than just places to live - they are architectural masterpieces designed for those who crave a lifestyle of beauty, simplicity, and connection. With a nod to mid-century modern aesthetics, each home embodies a minimalist elegance, featuring
High style living at its best! You'll fall in love with this dynamic twin home from the moment you step inside. The entry welcomes you into this home where comfort and quality abound. Fresh paint throughout, updated mechanicals, and updated appliances make this property truly move-in ready. The awesome kitchen features tons of cabinetry, an abundance of counter space, stainless appliances, and a
If you haven't seen this home yet, then you are truly missing out on a hidden gem. This spacious 2-story residence offers space, comfort, and style on a beautiful half-acre lot. With 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, there's room for everyone to spread out and enjoy. Step inside to find generously sized rooms throughout, perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The heart of the home features
Construction is underway in this highly sought after North Cedar development. Get your offer in now and close when it's build ready. Completion could be this Fall or next Spring. Bring your own builder or Sands Construction will build to suit. Ask for details or a construction meeting to look at the options.
Construction is underway in this highly sought after North Cedar development. Get your offer in now and close when it's build ready. Completion could be this Fall or next Spring. Bring your own builder or Sands Construction will build to suit. Ask for details or a construction meeting to look at the options.
This updated four unit property is located in a desirable Cedar Falls area and features thoughtful modern improvements throughout. Each unit offers updated countertops, stainless steel appliances, and new cabinetry. Inside, you will find spacious bedrooms, new flooring, and fresh paint that create a comfortable and welcoming feel. Large windows bring in plenty of natural light, adding to the
Development land opportunity in Cedar Falls priced at $4 per square foot. The parcel totals 13.36 acres of prime undeveloped land. In a very convenient location on Cedar Heights Drive close to residential areas, well-known retail stores and John Deere facilities. This land comes with immense road frontage and is well suited for medical offices, traditional offices, storefronts, daycare centers,
LGC is excited to offer the second building of Creekside Luxury Condos! Customize now for completion in spring, 2026. These spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom, owner-occupied units offer several layout variations and LGC’s design team to will help you configure condo-living, bespoke to your needs. All Creekside condos include an attached private garage come with luxurious appointments, elevator
With over 1,700 platted residential lots in south west Cedar Falls this is the Cedar Valley’s fastest growth area. Greenhill Crossing is located in front of the Panther Water Tower and is ideal for pharmacy, grocery, restaurant, hotel, retailers and professional & medical office users.
Lot 9 available at 0.93 acres priced at $4.00 PSF. Great commercial development site conveniently located along Nordic Dr. and Hwy 58 with high visibility. Listing agent is related to Seller through marriage.
Discover The Terraces, an exclusive new neighborhood nestled on the west side of Cedar Falls. These homes are more than just places to live - they are architectural masterpieces designed for those who crave a lifestyle of beauty, simplicity, and connection. With a nod to mid-century modern aesthetics, each home embodies a minimalist elegance, featuring clean lines, open spaces, and seamless
Step Up Your Off-Campus Living – Just One Block from Campus!Bedrooms starting at $365 per month!Live close to everything UNI has to offer in a community designed for comfort, convenience, and style. Our upgraded apartments feature spacious open floor plans, modern vinyl plank flooring, sleek fixtures, fully equipped kitchens, central air and heating, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and
Welcome to University Manor Apartments in Cedar Falls. We are the top-rated apartment community near the University of Northern Iowa! Choose from efficiency apartments, 1-bedroom apartments, extra-large one-bedroom apartments, and 2-bedroom apartments. University Manor is located on college hill in Cedar Falls. Whether you like shopping or the nightlife of the University or Main Street, we have
We know comfortability matters and Park @ Nine23 in Cedar Falls, IA is the perfect choice.We have 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floorplans for you to choose from including newly renovated homes. We feature well-equipped kitchens, private patios, in-unit washers and dryers and the best community amenities in the market. From our large pool and sundeck, to expansive clubhouse and fitness center, a
Be the first to live in these brand-new townhomes.Welcome to Twin Oaks Apartments, located in the picturesque Cedar Falls, IA. These 2 and 3-bedroom/2.5-bath townhome residences offer large modern living spaces with high-end finishes, such as quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and luxury plank flooring. You will enjoy the conveniences of entering from your attached 2-stall
Experience modern living at its finest at Falls Edge Studios in Cedar Falls, Iowa! Our fully renovated micro-finished units are designed to maximize space without sacrificing comfort. Located near the edge of Cedar Falls off University Avenue, our studios offer sophistication and convenience. With signature comfy Murphy beds, high-speed WiFi, utilities included, and a pet-friendly environment,
Looking for your next apartment? Thunder Ridge offers the perfect mix of comfort, location, and amenities — just 2 miles from UNI and downtown Cedar Falls!What You’ll Love:-High-speed fiber internet-24-hour fitness center with new equipment-Brand new bark park for your dog-Basketball, pickleball, nature park, and picnic areas-Top-rated community 6 years in a
Enjoy your college years living at Hillcrest Park Apartments! Hillcrest Park is an off-campus student housing complex located near UNI! Whether you apply with your friends or apply alone you will be surrounded by your peers. Spend your time relaxing at the swimming pool together, getting a workout in at the fitness center, or playing basketball or volleyball. When you need some time alone to
Make yourself at home in our cozy and contemporary condos right in the heart of downtown Cedar Falls. Close enough to walk to all the best restaurants, shops, and entertainment that Cedar Falls has to offer. All units are equipped with in-unit washer and dryers, dishwashers, lots of natural light and more which makes your life comfortable and easy. With high-end finishes and gorgeous views,
Fountains at Greenhill are Cedar Valley's Premier community! Fountains at Greenhill are just minutes from downtown Cedar Falls Main Street and Viking Plaza with shopping and dining for all. Enjoy spacious floor plans, limited access entry to buildings, washer and dryer in the unit, plus the biking/walking trail is located right on the property! Fountains at Greenhill Community is a great place to
ARABELLA APARTMENTSWelcome home to Arabella Apartments, perfectly situated in the heart of charming downtown Cedar Falls. Live above local favorites like Tacoz California, The Shop Barbershop, and The Skin Spa, with Main Street’s independently owned shops and restaurants just one block away.Love the outdoors? Arabella puts you right where you want to be. Enjoy easy access to
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
