Abstract: Objective To investigate the prevalence and risk factors for falls among community-dwelling older people in Beijing and Shanghai,so as to provide a theoretical basis for the prevention on falls. Methods Using the multi-stage random sampling method, we randomly selected four communities in Beijing and six communities in Shanghai to investigate the people aged above 60 years. Results A total of 1 345 elderly people accepted the survey and completed all questionnaires, among which 342 people had falls for a total of 478 times in 2014, the incidence rate of falls was 35.54%. Falls primarily occurred inside home, accounting for 45.61% of total types. Multivariate analysis showed the factors of falls were age, diseases which are easily leading to falls, understanding of self-ability, improper-fitting and slippery shoes and inappropriate stairs. Conclusions Beijing and Shanghai had high incidences of falls, mainly occurred inside home. In order to reduce the incidence of falls in elderly people, it should be integrated in all aspects of interventions from individuals, families and communities for the high-risk groups.