Ferndale

Located along the Nooksack River with stunning views of Mount Baker, Ferndale offers the perfect mix of small-town charm and natural beauty. Known for its historic charm, friendly community, and rapidly growing amenities, Ferndale has become a sought-after destination for those looking to enjoy the Pacific Northwest lifestyle. Its charming downtown, scenic parks, and diverse dining options make it an ideal place to live, work, and explore.

With a rich history reflected in landmarks like the Pioneer Village and Old Settlers Picnic Grounds, along with modern conveniences and a flourishing community spirit, Ferndale is the perfect blend of past and present.


Reasons to Love Ferndale

  • Just minutes from downtown Bellingham and close to the Canadian border
  • Gateway to the San Juan Islands and Mount Baker
  • A paradise for nature lovers with parks, trails, and waterfront access
  • Vibrant dining, shopping, and community events
  • A peaceful mix of rural serenity and urban conveniences
  • A range of Ferndale homes for sale, from cozy cottages to spacious new builds

Local Lifestyle

Ferndale is a place where history meets opportunity. The community’s roots are proudly displayed in the preserved log cabins of Pioneer Park, while the town’s growing amenities attract families, retirees, and remote workers alike. With a relaxed pace of life and close proximity to both Bellingham and the Canadian border, Ferndale offers convenience without the hustle and bustle of city living. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors or connecting with neighbors at a local event, Ferndale fosters a strong sense of belonging.


Dining, Shopping & Entertainment

Ferndale’s culinary scene is small but growing, with options to suit every palate. Rustic Coffee Bar is a local favorite, offering artisan coffee and baked goods in a cozy setting. For hearty comfort food, Cedars Restaurant & Lounge serves up classic American dishes with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Curry House brings a burst of global flavor with its authentic Indian cuisine, a must-try for spice lovers.

Beer enthusiasts will enjoy FrinGe Brewing, a vibrant taproom featuring locally crafted brews that reflect the spirit of the Pacific Northwest. Their rotating selection of IPAs, lagers, and seasonal beers is a hit with locals and visitors alike.

Ferndale’s shopping scene is centered around small businesses, with spots like Haggen Northwest Fresh and Chinook Lumber Home & Hardware providing essentials, while the downtown area is home to unique boutiques and charming local stores. Seasonal community events, like the Ferndale Street Festival and the annual Old Settlers Picnic, bring residents together for fun and celebration.


Things to Do in Ferndale

Ferndale offers plenty of activities for all ages, from exploring its rich history to enjoying the great outdoors. Pioneer Park is a standout, featuring historic log cabins, walking paths, and spaces for picnics and community events. Families can spend the day at Star Park, a large, colorful playground built with input from local kids.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Hovander Homestead Park, a sprawling area with trails, gardens, and opportunities to visit farm animals. During the summer, the park also hosts events like concerts and the popular Ferndale Farmers Market. For golf lovers, North Bellingham Golf Course, just a short drive away, offers a picturesque setting for a relaxing round.


Schools in Ferndale

Ferndale students are served by the Ferndale School District, which prides itself on strong academic programs and community engagement. A few top schools in the area include:

  • Ferndale High School
  • Horizon Middle School
  • Cascadia Elementary School

Ferndale’s welcoming community, natural beauty, and rich history make it a wonderful place to call home. Whether you’re enjoying a stroll through Pioneer Park, exploring local trails, or relaxing with friends at a brewery, Ferndale captures the best of the Pacific Northwest in a charming and approachable package.

 
 

Overview for Ferndale, WA

14,777 people live in Ferndale, where the median age is 32.7 and the average individual income is $30,692. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

14,777

Total Population

32.7 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$30,692

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for Ferndale, WA

Ferndale has 4,936 households, with an average household size of 2.99. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Ferndale do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 14,777 people call Ferndale home. The population density is 2,103.05 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

14,777

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

32.7

Median Age

48.07 / 51.93%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
4,936

Total Households

2.99

Average Household Size

$30,692

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Around Ferndale, WA

There's plenty to do around Ferndale, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

52
Somewhat Walkable
Walking Score
42
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Barbie's Berries, The Score Sports Bar & Grill, and Anytime Toffee, Coffee & Gifts.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 4.76 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0.41 miles 10 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0.33 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining · $ 4.85 miles 20 reviews 4.9/5 stars
Dining 0.44 miles 19 reviews 4.8/5 stars
Dining 0.37 miles 23 reviews 4.8/5 stars