$292,886Average Value$198Average Price per Sq Ft96Homes 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Cedar Falls, IA sell after 42 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Cedar Falls, IA over the last 12 months is $283,050, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 2329 Minnetonka Drive, a beautifully maintained multi-level home nestled in the desirable Royal Oaks neighborhood of Cedar Falls. Situated on a spacious 15,000-square-foot pie-shaped lot, this home offers 3,415 finished square feet of thoughtfully designed living space across three finished levels, combining timeless character, quality updates, and an ideal layout for everyday living
Welcome to easy living at Autumn Ridge, a charming 55+ community designed for comfort, simplicity, and style. This elegant 2-bedroom twin home offers the perfect opportunity to downsize without sacrificing space or independence. Step inside to a bright, open-concept layout that seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas—ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The spacious
Classic 1920's two story with beautiful hardwood floors and trim, located on small easy to maintain lot one half bloc from Clay Street park. Three bedrooms and bath up, living room, Formal dining room, kitchen and finished office on main floor. Basement is full unfinished with 2 storeroom, laundry and shower. Mechanicals are newer. New H20 heater 4/23/2026. Selling "As Is"
Dick Robert CRB,GRICedar Falls Real Estate Company
Quality-built and meticulously maintained, this move-in-ready condo at 2020 Erik Road offers 2,272 finished sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, and the ease of low-maintenance living in one of Cedar Falls' most desirable locations. You cant help but notice the light-filled floor plan. The vinyl windows throughout enhance energy efficiency and natural light. The
Imagine coming home to this warm and welcoming 4 bedroom home in one of Cedar Falls' most picturesque neighborhoods. Thoughtfully updated and filled with natural light, this home offers the perfect blend of character, comfort, and modern style. The heart of the home is the beautifully remodeled open concept kitchen, dining, and living area, creating an inviting space for gathering with family and
Welcome home! 1310 Lilac is the property you have been waiting for! This 3,302 square foot home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 recently updated bathrooms and 3 separate living spaces. The kitchen is spacious and has cherry cabinets and Corian countertops. The following updates have also been made: Insulated garage and added 100 amp service, added egress window in downstairs bedroom, replaced big window in
Thoughtfully updated from top to bottom, this impressive ranch offers beautiful finishes, flexible living space and a great location on a corner lot along a quiet cul-de-sac. The spacious living room features a fireplace and built-in shelving, creating a comfortable and inviting place to gather. The dining area and well-appointed kitchen offer abundant cabinetry, generous counter space and access
Hidden Pines Subdivision, Limited Lots Remaining! Don’t miss your opportunity to build in Hidden Pines, one of the area’s newest and most desirable subdivisions. A limited number of lots remain, offering the perfect setting to build the home you’ve been dreaming of. Conveniently and centrally located with easy access to schools, shopping, dining, and everyday amenities, Hidden Pines combines
Escape to North Cedar Estates, a tranquil new single-family residential neighborhood on the scenic edge of Cedar Falls, Iowa. This peaceful community offers the perfect balance of quiet country living with convenient city access. Here, you can design and build your custom dream home from the ground up, or partner with a premier builder to bring your vision to life. Generous lot sizes provide
LOOKING FOR AN INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY, GREAT LOCATION AND WALKING DISTANCE TO THE UNIVERSITY? Then check out this 7-PLEX which includes Three 1--bedroom apartments, one studio , one 2-bedroom, one 3-bedroom, and one 4-bedroom additional units. All units are fully rented through May 2027. All appliances are included in each unit, and there is plenty of Off-street parking with ease of alley access
Deanna Wheeler, GRI, CNE, CRSRE/MAX Concepts - Cedar Falls
+/- 17.7 Acres residential development land priced at $2.50 PSF. Includes potential for up to 39 lots for single family homes with access from Rownd St. Prime development opportunity in thriving Cedar Falls area.
Escape to North Cedar Estates, a tranquil new single-family residential neighborhood on the scenic edge of Cedar Falls, Iowa. This peaceful community offers the perfect balance of quiet country living with convenient city access. Here, you can design and build your custom dream home from the ground up, or partner with a premier builder to bring your vision to life. Generous lot sizes provide
One of the last chances to build in Pinnacle Ridge! This buildable, level lot is surrounded by stunning custom homes in one of the areas premier neighborhoods. Enjoy a central location close to schools, shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences while still appreciating the quiet, tucked away feel of the neighborhood. No busy road noise, just a great spot to build your dream home. Opportunities
Welcome to 504 Walnut St, a classic two story home in the heart of Cedar Falls that blends charming character with modern comfort. Right off the welcoming front porch, generous living spaces unfold. The inviting original living room opens into an expansive, sun-drenched living and dining area ideal for entertaining. Around the corner, the updated kitchen offers abundant counter space and storage,
Prepare to be captivated by The Avery, a brand new floor plan by Panther Buiders, where top-of-the-line luxury meets smart, functional design. This ranch style beauty boasts ultimate curb appeal and is situated to offer a tranquil, elevated living experience. Experience elevated living with luxurious finishes and fixtures throughout. No detail has been overlooked in creating this stunning
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
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
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
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
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
Cedar West Apartments offers upscale living in Cedar Falls, IA, featuring thoughtfully designed apartments with in-unit laundry, secure entrances, and elevator access for ultimate convenience. Residents enjoy an unmatched amenity package including a pool, fully equipped gym, sport court, and a welcoming clubhouse, everything you need to live, relax, and play without leaving home. Experience the
These beautifully finished 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartments offer 625 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space with high-end finishes throughout. Enjoy the convenience of in-unit laundry, extra soundproofing between floors for added privacy, and optional on-site storage units. The building features off-street parking and a rooftop patio perfect for relaxing or entertaining, making this home
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
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