Ferndale, MI
Population 19,156 · Michigan
About Ferndale, MI
Ferndale is a mid-sized city located in Michigan with a population of 19,156 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $91,732 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.6 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Ferndale features a median home value of $233,600, which is 5% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Ferndale in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,235, 6% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 10,844 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (6,871 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (3,289 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ferndale shows an unemployment rate of 3.9%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 7.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Ferndale have an average one-way commute time of 25.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
56.5% of Ferndale residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 2.7% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 1.9% Asian residents, with 4.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ferndale, MI
Compared to national averages, Ferndale has a median household income of $91,732 (22% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $233,600, which is 5% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,235 is 6% above the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Ferndale's income is 39% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 27% above the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Ferndale, MI?
Ferndale offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $91,732, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $233,600, below the US average of $244,900, and a well-educated community where 56.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 7.9%, better than the national average.
Ferndale has a population of 19,156 with a median age of 35.6 years. Compare Ferndale with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Ferndale
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haslett | 19,025 | $74,164 | $269,200 | Compare |
| Cutlerville | 19,465 | $65,833 | $200,900 | Compare |
| Ypsilanti | 19,937 | $44,141 | $223,700 | Compare |
| Trenton | 18,242 | $78,565 | $202,400 | Compare |
| Monroe | 20,330 | $59,532 | $161,500 | Compare |
| Adrian | 20,493 | $42,851 | $119,900 | Compare |
| Marquette | 20,691 | $55,825 | $254,100 | Compare |
| Wayne | 17,413 | $54,467 | $142,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Michigan
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Ferndale With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Ferndale
What is the population of Ferndale, MI?
The population of Ferndale, MI is 19,156 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Ferndale?
The median household income in Ferndale, MI is $91,732 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ferndale?
The median home value in Ferndale, MI is $233,600, which is 5% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Ferndale?
The median monthly rent in Ferndale, MI is $1,235, which is 6% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ferndale?
The unemployment rate in Ferndale, MI is 3.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Ferndale, MI a good place to live?
Ferndale offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 19,156 and a median age of 35.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Ferndale, MI?
56.5% of residents in Ferndale aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Ferndale?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ferndale, MI: median home value is $233,600 (5% below national), median rent is $1,235/month, and median household income is $91,732. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ferndale?
The poverty rate in Ferndale, MI is 7.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Ferndale, MI?
Ferndale's population is 2.7% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 1.9% Asian, and 5.6% two or more races. 4.6% of residents are foreign-born.