Washington / Whatcom County

Moving to Ferndale, WA

Thinking of making a move to Ferndale, WA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ferndale, WA

Considering a move to Ferndale, WA? This welcoming community of 16,390 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $525,000 and average rents near $1,540. Commute times average 24 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (42% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Ferndale's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Ferndale, WA

Ferndale has a population of 16,390 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 36 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 80% White, 1% Black, and 4% Asian residents, and over 13% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
16,390
Density
2,125 per sq mi
Median Age
36.4
Gender Ratio
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
12.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
80.2%
Black
1.1%
Asian
3.7%
Others
15.0%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Ferndale, WA?

The cost of living in Ferndale is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 116.0. Median home values are around $525,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,540. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$525,000
Gross Rent
$1,540
Monthly Electricity Charges
$105
Auto Insurance
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$2,200
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$680
State Taxes
Low: 0%| High: 9.0%
Cost Of Living Index
116.0
Grocery
108.3
Housing
124.1
Utilities
97.4
Transportation
110.2
Health Care
109.5
Miscellaneous
105.3

Crime

Is Ferndale, WA a safe place to live?

Ferndale is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 178 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 49. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Washington.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
178
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,025
Crime Index
2,203
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 561
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 49

Weather

What is the weather like in Ferndale, WA year-round?

Ferndale experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 75°F and cold winters dipping to 33°F. The area receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 42% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
33°F
Max
45°F

Summer

Min
52°F
Max
75°F

Spring

Min
40°F
Max
60°F

Fall

Min
41°F
Max
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches
36 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
42%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $82,400 and a low poverty rate of 8.5%. Over 93% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 29% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 24 minutes, and almost 2% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$39,400
Household Income
$82,400
Family Income
$91,200
Per Capita Income
$33,200
Income Male
$48,100
Income Female
$38,700
Poverty Rate
8.5%
Non English Speakers
12.5%
Rent
$1,540
Unemployment Rate
4.7%
Public Transport Usage
1.5%
Commute Time
23.8 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
92.8%
Bachelors or More
29.4%

Education

How are the schools in Ferndale, WA?

Ferndale offers quality education options, with public schools like Ferndale High School and Vista Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Whatcom Community College and Western Washington University. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Ferndale High School
Street
5830 Golden Eagle Dr
Phone
360-383-9240
Students
1,250
Student Teacher Ratio
21:1
Name
Vista Middle School
Street
6051 Vista Dr
Phone
360-383-9370
Students
750
Student Teacher Ratio
19:1

Private Schools

Name
Cascade Christian School
Street
5671 Third Ave
Phone
360-384-3861
Students
140

Colleges

Name
Whatcom Community College
City
Bellingham
State
WA
Distance
9 miles
Students
4,100
Name
Western Washington University
City
Bellingham
State
WA
Distance
13 miles
Students
16,000

Healthcare

Ferndale residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.3 per 1,000 people and 93.5% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center
Address
2901 Squalicum Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone
(360) 734-5400
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage
93.5%
Health Care Index
76.4

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Ferndale, WA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $525,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 70%. The market has seen a 4.3% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 4.8%. Ferndale offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$525,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,540
Owner Occupied Rate
69.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
4.3%
New Construction Rate
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate
0.4%

DMV Information

Residents of Ferndale handle vehicle services through the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located in Lacey. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Washington
Department
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address
645 Woodland Square Loop SE, Lacey, WA 98503
Phone
360-902-3900

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.

FAQs About Moving to Ferndale, WA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Ferndale, review the core fields on this page: population 16,390, median home value $525,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,540, commute time 23.8 minutes, and sunny days percentage 42%.

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