About Niagara Falls

Quick facts

• Population: 94,415 (Statistics Canada 2021 Census)
• Land area: 212 sq. km (81.9 sq. mi.)
• Elevation: 618 feet above sea level
• Seasons: Spring, summer, fall, and winter
• Geographic coordinates: 43:05:00N 79:04:15W
• Annual visitors:14 million people

A city of natural wonders

Niagara Falls is famous for its breathtaking waterfalls!

• The Falls are around 12,000 years old
• Water erodes the falls back by about 1 foot per year
• The Canadian Horseshoe Falls are 180 feet (57 meters) high and carry nine times more water than the American Falls. It sends 6 million cubic feet (168,000 cubic meters) of water over the crest every minute during peak hours – that’s a million bathtubs full of water every minute
• The powerful Niagara River flows at about 35 mph (56 km/h), carving out the stunning Niagara Gorge
• The Niagara Escarpment formed when melting glaciers created the Great Lakes
• Niagara Falls generates hydroelectric power at the Sir Adam Beck power stations that supply southern Ontario and western New York
• Water’s journey: Water that flows over the Falls at Niagara travels to Lake Ontario, then drains by way of the St. Lawrence River, and ultimately into the Atlantic Ocean

A city steeped in history

Learn about the history of Niagara Falls and more at the Niagara Falls Museums and the Niagara Falls Public Library.

A city of tourism

Planning your visit? Check our links to the tourism information you need, from visitor guides to transportation options. Get ready to explore and make unforgettable memories!

• Visiting Niagara Falls

A thriving economy

Niagara Falls is built on an economic foundation anchored by tourism, manufacturing, commercial retail, and knowledge-based sectors. We are linked to the world by extensive road, rail, water, air, and telecommunications networks.

Learn how we are locally grown and globally known on the Niagara Falls Business Development site.

A city to call home

Our city is a beautiful, fun, and friendly place with lots to offer. You’ll find the excitement of a big city, but with the comfort and charm of a smaller community.

If you are new to Niagara Falls or planning on moving, you can find helpful links and information on our Moving to Niagara Falls page.