River Falls

River Falls

Located in Pierce County

$385,045 Average Value
$217 Average Price per Sq Ft
66 Homes For Sale

Home to the Kinnickinnic River and the University of Wisconsin - River Falls

Named after the Kinnickinnic River that runs through its historic downtown, River Falls, Wisconsin, is known for outdoor activities like trout fishing and hiking. “People here are outdoorsy, and they tend to know each other,” says Konnor Garrido, Realtor with Edina Realty. River Falls prides itself on its sustainable ethos, running its city facilities entirely on renewable energy, and it is the first Wisconsin city to do so.

In addition to the city’s 16,000 residents, almost 6,000 students attend the University of Wisconsin - River Falls, which doubles as the city’s largest employer. While the college is an important part of the city, it doesn’t dominate River Falls’ vibe. “It’s not a college town at all,” says Melissa Wiegele, a Realtor with Wiegele Real Estate Group. “Sure, there are college-oriented parts, but it’s a small portion of the city, and the school blends very well into the community.”

The Kinnickinnic River is flows through the heart of River Falls, providing scenes of serenity.
The Kinnickinnic River is flows through the heart of River Falls, providing scenes of serenity.
The University of Wisconsin River Falls Athletics brings energy and excitement to River Falls.
The University of Wisconsin River Falls Athletics brings energy and excitement to River Falls.
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Low inventory and a competitive market drive home prices

The housing market in River Falls is competitive due to the lack of inventory. “Inventory is low because people don’t want to move, and when they do, it’s often within the city,” Wiegele says. The median price for a single-family home in River Falls is about $421,000, a little higher than the national median. However, homes still tend to be cheaper than those across the border. “Homes in River Falls are $70,000 to $100,000 cheaper than similar properties in Minnesota,” Wiegele says. “Buyers are realizing that you can pay less for more in River Falls.”

A variety of home styles line the streets of River Falls.
A variety of home styles line the streets of River Falls.
River Falls is known for the variety of historic homes throughout town.
River Falls is known for the variety of historic homes throughout town.
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The Kinnickinnic River is a trout fishing and paddling favorite

Sterling Ponds Park and Hoffman Park both have disc golf courses, and Hoffman Park has a campground, too. Whitetail Ridge Mountain Bike Trail offers over 7 miles of mountain biking trails for riders of all levels.

Residents and visitors alike can enjoy the Kinnickinnic River, known locally as the Kinni. Anglers can attempt to land a big catch on this class 1 trout river — meaning its wild fish population is self-sustaining — while paddlers can visit River Guide Kayaks for tours and rentals to paddle among the river’s scenic cliffs and bluffs. Hikers can explore the Kinnickinnic River Trail at Glen Park, which winds around Lake Louise and Lake George.

The Hoffman Park Disc Golf Course in River Falls offers a unique challenge for all skill levels.
The Hoffman Park Disc Golf Course in River Falls offers a unique challenge for all skill levels.
A day kayaking on the Kinnickinnic River is the best day of summer.
A day kayaking on the Kinnickinnic River is the best day of summer.
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Crossing the Swinging Bridge can be an exciting bit of history

For a bit of excitement, people can cross the river using the Swinging Bridge — added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2018 — at Glen Park. The River Falls Fighting Fish baseball team competes at the First National Bank of River Falls Field, which hosts youth baseball and softball leagues. The historic Falls Theatre was established in 1927 and still operates today.

The River Falls Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau hosts River Falls Days each July. The four-day event features a parade, live performances, and a variety of local vendors, food trucks and craft beer.

The Swinging Bridge at Glen Park in River Falls was built in 1925.
The Swinging Bridge at Glen Park in River Falls was built in 1925.
First National Bank of River Falls Field at Hoffman Park is the home of Fighting Fish baseball.
First National Bank of River Falls Field at Hoffman Park is the home of Fighting Fish baseball.
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Nationally recognized instrumental music program at River Falls School District

The River Falls School District earns an A-minus from Niche. River Falls High School is particularly noted for its instrumental music program. Its marching band won the 2024 WSMA Class AAA Championship. The district has also been recognized as a "Best Community for Music Education" four times by the National Association of Music Merchants.

River Falls High School is ranked 78th in Wisconsin High Schools.
River Falls High School is ranked 78th in Wisconsin High Schools.
Meyer Middle School provides a public education to students in River Falls, Wisconsin.
Meyer Middle School provides a public education to students in River Falls, Wisconsin.
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About 30 miles to the Twin Cities for big city amenities

River Falls is about 35 miles from the Twin Cities. “A high percentage of residents in western Wisconsin work across the border in the Twin Cities,” Wiegele says. The Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport is about 36 miles away. Wisconsin State Highway 35 runs north from town and connects to Interstate 94, about 9 miles from River Falls. The River Falls Area Hospital is under 2 miles east across Highway 35 from downtown.

Lund’s Fly Shop and Fox Den Books draw shoppers downtown

Downtown River Falls is a draw for visitors and residents alike. “It’s great because it has this cozy community vibe while still being large enough to provide options,” Garrido says. Residents can shop along Main Street, exploring locally owned businesses like Lund's Fly Shop, Fox Den Books and Second Chances Thrift Store. Groceries are available at Family Fresh Market, but big-box retailers are a drive away to Hudson, Wisconsin, about 10 miles north. Selah Vie Bistro & Coffee Cottage is known for its artisanal blends and wood-fired pizzas. Swinging Bridge Brewing Company serves its extensive list of house-made beers and a classic Wisconsin Old Fashioned.

Lund's Fly Shop is a long-standing business in downtown River Falls.
Lund's Fly Shop is a long-standing business in downtown River Falls.
Grab a locally brewed pint at Swinging Bridge Brewing Company.
Grab a locally brewed pint at Swinging Bridge Brewing Company.
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Important to know

According to the Wisconsin Department of Justice, violent crime in Pierce County, where River Falls primarily lies, rose in 2023, though not in all categories. Property crime in Pierce County has dropped since 2020.

Winters in River Falls are cold and snowy. Summers tend to be warm and humid. Like in much of the upper Midwest, mosquitos can be a nuisance.

Ty Phelps
Written By
Ty Phelps
Photography Contributed By
Tyler McNair
Bridgette Cyr
Video By
Bridgette Cyr

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Jim Seabold, an experienced agent in this area.

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
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

River Falls Housing Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$410,000
Median Sale Price
$395,537
Median Single Family Sale Price
$410,000
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$343,250
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$307,500
Median Change From 1st List Price
0%
Last 12 months Home Sales
388
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
$3
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$217

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes for Sale
66
Months of Supply
2.00

Open Houses

  • Sunday, Jun 15
    12 - 2pm

    67 Emerson Valley Dr, River Falls, WI 54022

    $515,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 2,000 Sq Ft
    • 67 Emerson Valley Dr

    Oh what a find! This 3 bed, 2 bath home on over 3 acres has it all! Many recent updates in the home make it warm and inviting. The entire kitchen, flooring, paint, and many fixtures have been replaced. Be sure to check out the sunroom! Recently finished with new flooring and windows, you will be hanging out in here to enjoy the privacy in your back! The woods provide tons of privacy during the

    Agent Photo
    Jason Neuhaus
    Coldwell Banker Realty
    (534) 248-6638
  • Monday, Jun 16
    3:30 - 5:30pm

    584 Reynolds St, River Falls, WI 54022

    $625,000

    • 4 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,726 Sq Ft
    • 584 Reynolds St
    • New 18 days ago

    Immaculate one-story rambler with a finished basement and a zero entry plan featuring no steps from the front door or garage into the home. The main level layout is fantastic, with a spacious living room, dining area, and modern kitchen. The basement is spacious and fully finished, offering additional living space and storage. This 2,726 sq ft home includes 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a completely

    Laurie Larsen Property Executives Realty

  • Sunday, Jun 15
    12:30 - 2pm

    1960 Pika Trail Unit C, River Falls, WI 54022

    $189,900

    • 2 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,254 Sq Ft
    • 1960 Pika Trail
    • Unit C

    Freshly updated and affordably priced! This immaculate property features brand-new carpet and fresh paint throughout. Enjoy low-maintenance living with snow removal and lawn care included. Ideally located just minutes from downtown River Falls and only 10 minutes to Hudson. Spotless, move-in ready, and available for a quick close don’t miss this opportunity!

    Jesse Penman eXp Realty

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value



Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

River Falls Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
16,276
Median Age
31
Population Density
27 ppl/acre
Population under 18
24.4%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
14.2%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$73,345
On par with the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$94,415

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
96.9%
Above the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
42.6%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
14%
% Population in Labor Force
72.6%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
33''
Average Winter Low Temperature
3°F
Average Summer High Temperature
81°F
Annual Snowfall
41''
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.
River Falls