Ferndale, MI vs Normal, IL
Side-by-side comparison of housing, income, commute, safety, and quality of life.
Score Snapshot
No universal winner
Scores summarize the published model. Use the objective metric differences below and your own priorities to choose.
Ferndale
82.8
#19 nationally
Normal
76.8
#316 nationally
Ferndale leads in walk score (67 vs 40). Ferndale leads in crime level (5.6 vs 9.0). Normal leads in average commute (17.2 min vs 26.1 min).
Metric-by-Metric Breakdown
| Metric | Ferndale, MI | Normal, IL |
|---|---|---|
| WhereAtHome Score | 82.8 (#19) | 76.8 (#316) |
| Population | 19,083 | 52,618 |
| Typical Home Value (ZHVI) | $254,401 | $269,069 |
| Median Household Income | $86,120 | $63,965 |
| Average Commute | 26.1 min | 17.2 min |
| Walk Score | 67 | 40 |
| Crime Level | 5.6 | 9.0 |
| School Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Cost of Living Index | 99 | 97 |
| Political lean County 2024 presidential margin — context only, not scored | D+10.6 | D+4.9 |
B-
82.8 Score
Ferndale, MI
Small Michigan city with local appeal
Median Home
$254,401
Population
19,083
Crime
Moderate-Low
Walk Score
67
Midwest
View Ferndale, MI →
C
76.8 Score
Normal, IL
Illinois community balancing growth and livability
Median Home
$269,069
Population
52,618
Crime
Moderate
Walk Score
40
Midwest
View Normal, IL →