Let the numbers do the talking.
Ferndale, MI vs Flint, MI
Ferndale, MI vs Flint, MI: What the data shows
Ferndale, MI is in Ferndale, MI while Flint, MI is in Flint, MI — both in the same state. WYLT rates Ferndale, MI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Flint, MI as “Hard pass” — a neighborhood WYLT does not recommend.
Ferndale, MI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Ferndale, MI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Flint, MI has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Ferndale, MI has Low flood risk and Flint, MI has Low flood risk.
Ferndale, MI is the more walkable neighborhood. Ferndale, MI scores 61/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Flint, MI's 26/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Flint, MI has the higher school rating — Ferndale, MI rates 6.8/10 and Flint, MI rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Ferndale, MI | Flint, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Hard pass |
| Median Price | $215K | N/A |
| Median Rent | $1K | $897 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $81K ✓ Higher income | $51K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 61/100 ✓ More walkable | 26/100 |
| Transit Score | 37/100 | 66/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 44/100 | 67/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 19 min ✓ Shorter commute | 78 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesCommutersStudents | budget-conscious renterspublic transit usersshort-term housing seekers |
Bottom line
For families and commuters, Ferndale is the clear better choice due to its solid schools, affordable housing, and reasonable commute time to Detroit. Families should settle here. For budget-conscious renters and public transit users, Flint may fit the bill, but be aware of its high crime and lack of amenities.
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