Thinking About Ferndale, Michigan? A Practical (and Slightly Funny) Guide

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Ferndale, Michigan tends to come up when people want a place that feels energetic, walkable, and connected without being downtown Detroit. It’s a compact city with a strong sense of place, a recognizable downtown, and neighborhoods that feel established rather than cookie-cutter. If you’re researching where to live in Southeast Michigan and want something practical with personality, Ferndale is usually part of the conversation.

This guide walks through location, cost of living, housing, schools, and day-to-day lifestyle so you can decide if Ferndale aligns with how you actually live, not just how it looks on a map.

Thinking About Ferndale, Michigan? A Practical (and Slightly Funny) Guide

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Where Is Ferndale, Michigan Located?

Ferndale is located in southern Oakland County, directly north of Detroit. It sits along the Woodward Corridor, one of Metro Detroit’s primary north-south routes. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Ferndale is part of the Detroit–Warren–Dearborn metropolitan area.

The city is bordered by Detroit to the south, Royal Oak to the north, Pleasant Ridge to the west, and Hazel Park to the east. Major road access includes Woodward Avenue (M-1) and Interstate 696 just north of the city, which provides east-west connectivity across Metro Detroit. This location makes commuting to nearby job centers and regional amenities relatively straightforward based on Michigan Department of Transportation mapping data.

Cost of Living in Ferndale, Michigan

The cost of living in Ferndale is generally higher than the Michigan average but often lower than some neighboring Oakland County communities. Housing plays the largest role in overall expenses. Based on U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data, home values and rents in Ferndale reflect its proximity to Detroit and its established downtown.

Utilities and transportation costs tend to align closely with state averages, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics regional price data. Walkability in parts of the city can also reduce transportation reliance for some residents, though car ownership is still common throughout Metro Detroit. For broader comparisons, Niche.com and BestPlaces.net consistently place Ferndale near the middle-to-upper range for affordability within Southeast Michigan.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Ferndale’s housing stock is largely made up of early-to-mid 20th century construction. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data, the majority of homes are single-family residences, with a smaller but visible presence of duplexes, small apartment buildings, and mixed-use properties near downtown.

Architectural styles commonly include bungalows, colonials, and ranch homes, often on smaller lots compared to newer suburban developments. New construction exists but is limited, typically focused on infill projects or small-scale multi-family developments. Market activity fluctuates with broader Metro Detroit trends, and data from local MLS systems shows consistent buyer interest without extreme volatility.

Property Taxes in Ferndale

Property taxes in Ferndale are based on assessed and taxable value, combined with local millage rates. Like all Michigan municipalities, taxable value increases are capped annually until a property transfers ownership, as outlined by the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Millage rates vary depending on the specific property and voter-approved levies. Oakland County and the City of Ferndale publish current millage information publicly, and prospective buyers should always review an individual property’s tax history rather than relying on general estimates.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Ferndale is known for its active downtown centered along Nine Mile Road. The area includes locally owned shops, dining options, and small venues that contribute to the city’s everyday energy. Public parks such as Geary Park provide green space, playgrounds, and community gathering areas, according to the City of Ferndale Parks & Recreation Department.

The city hosts recurring community events throughout the year, including street fairs and seasonal festivals organized by the municipality and local organizations. While Ferndale does not have lakes within city limits, nearby Oakland County parks and recreation areas are accessible by short drives, as noted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Ferndale is primarily served by Ferndale Public Schools. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, the district offers a range of educational programs, with performance metrics varying by school and subject area.

As with any district, outcomes depend on multiple factors, and families often review individual school data, program offerings, and enrollment options when evaluating fit. Nearby communities also offer private and charter school options within reasonable driving distance, based on Michigan Department of Education listings.

Pros & Cons of Living in Ferndale

Pros

Central location within Metro Detroit
Walkable downtown with established amenities
Housing stock with architectural character
Access to major roadways and regional destinations

Cons

Limited new construction inventory
Smaller lot sizes compared to outer suburbs
Property taxes consistent with Oakland County averages
Higher housing costs than some farther-out Michigan communities

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Ferndale, Michigan

Is Ferndale part of Metro Detroit?

Yes. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Ferndale is included in the Detroit metropolitan area.

How far is Ferndale from downtown Detroit?

Ferndale is directly north of Detroit, with a short drive via Woodward Avenue, based on Michigan GIS data.

Does Ferndale have a downtown area?

Yes. Downtown Ferndale is centered along Nine Mile Road and is maintained by the City of Ferndale and local business associations.

What type of homes are common in Ferndale?

Single-family homes built primarily before 1970 are most common, per U.S. Census Bureau housing data.

Is Ferndale walkable?

Parts of the city, especially near downtown, are considered walkable according to BestPlaces.net.

Are there parks in Ferndale?

Yes. The city maintains multiple public parks, including Geary Park, according to the City of Ferndale.

What county is Ferndale in?

Ferndale is located in Oakland County.

Does Ferndale have public transportation access?

Bus service is available through regional transit providers, per Southeast Michigan transportation resources.

Are property taxes higher than average?

Property taxes are consistent with Oakland County norms, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Is Ferndale close to major highways?

Yes. Interstate 696 runs just north of the city, offering east-west access.

Does Ferndale have apartments and rentals?

Yes. Rental housing includes small apartment buildings and mixed-use developments, per Census data.

Is Ferndale a newer or older city?

Most development occurred in the early-to-mid 20th century, based on historical housing records.

To Conclude:

If you're looking to move to, from, or within the state of Michigan in one day or a million, I help people do just that and I love it as a Michigan Realtor. Please reach out anytime for help — I’m happy to be your go-to resource.