Ferndale, WA Homes for Rent

Ferndale is a small, semi-rural community set along the Nooksack River, located 10 miles north of Bellingham on Interstate 5. Known for its vibrant parks and slightly lower housing costs, Ferndale offers a mix of suburban living and expansive county properties with 5-to-10-acre homes. The area features early 20th-century cottages near the Historic Downtown District, late 20th-century ranch-style homes, and new traditional homes in the northwest. Recent developments include subdivisions, townhouses, and condo complexes. Pioneer Park, maintained by the Ferndale Heritage Society, hosts 12 original log cabins and the annual Old Settlers Picnic every July. Other parks include the Centennial Riverwalk and the 350-acre Hovander Homestead Park, which boasts an elevated boardwalk over Tennant Lake and a Fragrance Garden. Main Street in the Historic Downtown District features small local restaurants and bars, with Fringe Brewing being a popular nightlife spot. Specialty shops and creameries are found on the north side, while chain grocers and fast-food restaurants are located south of the river. Interstate 5 provides access to Bellingham, Seattle, and Vancouver. The Whatcom Transportation Authority operates countywide bus routes. Ferndale School District offers agriculture programs, including aquaculture, horticulture, and veterinary science. The Ferndale Police Department reported a 39% decrease in property crime from 2022 to 2023. The Nooksack River poses a high flood risk, with city officials working on improving the levee system and reconstructing parts of the downtown district.