Ferndale, WA
Population 15,447 · Washington
About Ferndale, WA
Ferndale is a mid-sized city located in Washington with a population of 15,447 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $83,839 per year, which is 12% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.6 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 $492,400, which is 101% above the national median of $244,900. This places Ferndale in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,461, 26% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,895 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (3,645 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (1,873 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ferndale shows an unemployment rate of 4.0%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 10.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Ferndale have an average one-way commute time of 22.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.8% of Ferndale residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 9.1% White, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, and 5.9% Asian residents, with 14.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ferndale, WA
Compared to national averages, Ferndale has a median household income of $83,839 (12% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $492,400, which is 101% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,461 is 26% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Ferndale's income is 8% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 7% above the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Ferndale, WA?
Ferndale offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $83,839, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 10.5%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $492,400. However, Ferndale’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ferndale has a population of 15,447 with a median age of 33.6 years. Compare Ferndale with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Ferndale
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Stickney | 15,514 | $85,762 | $598,400 | Compare |
| White Center | 15,017 | $82,500 | $591,500 | Compare |
| Lynden | 16,025 | $94,869 | $546,400 | Compare |
| Lakeland North | 14,664 | $111,681 | $501,600 | Compare |
| Sunnyside | 16,329 | $53,350 | $207,200 | Compare |
| Port Orchard | 16,398 | $81,472 | $492,000 | Compare |
| Bothell East | 14,487 | $189,519 | $1,047,300 | Compare |
| East Wenatchee | 14,114 | $81,050 | $414,000 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Washington
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, WA?
The population of Ferndale, WA is 15,447 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Washington.
What is the median household income in Ferndale?
The median household income in Ferndale, WA is $83,839 per year, which is 12% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ferndale?
The median home value in Ferndale, WA is $492,400, which is 101% above 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, WA is $1,461, which is 26% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ferndale?
The unemployment rate in Ferndale, WA is 4.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Ferndale, WA a good place to live?
Ferndale offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 15,447 and a median age of 33.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Ferndale, WA?
32.8% of residents in Ferndale aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Ferndale?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ferndale, WA: median home value is $492,400 (101% above national), median rent is $1,461/month, and median household income is $83,839. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.9x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Ferndale?
The poverty rate in Ferndale, WA is 10.5%, 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, WA?
Ferndale's population is 9.1% White, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, 5.9% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 14.2% of residents are foreign-born.