Ferry Pass, an unincorporated community in Escambia County, Florida, is a dynamic area characterized by its blend of residential convenience and proximity to key institutions. Situated just north of Pensacola, it offers residents a suburban feel while maintaining easy access to urban amenities. The housing stock largely consists of Ranch style (often concrete block construction) homes, many built between 1950 and 1980, reflecting the growth of the region during those decades. Access to US-90 (Nine Mile Road) makes commuting straightforward, connecting residents to the wider Pensacola metropolitan area for work and leisure.
The area benefits greatly from its educational institutions, particularly the University of West Florida (UWF), which acts as a significant local employer and cultural hub. Families moving to Ferry Pass often prioritize school zones within the Escambia County School District, with areas zoned for Washington High School being particularly sought after. Despite its many advantages, older homes in Ferry Pass can sometimes present challenges, such as aging infrastructure like Cast Iron Pipes or managing properties within a Zone AE flood designation, which necessitates specific insurance considerations. Understanding these local nuances is key to appreciating Ferry Pass.
Exploring Key Ferry Pass Neighborhoods
Brent
While technically a distinct census-designated place, Brent is often closely associated with Ferry Pass due to its geographical proximity and shared services. It's a largely residential area, popular with families seeking convenient access to schools within the Escambia County School District. Homes here often reflect the Ranch style (often concrete block construction) common to the region's mid-century development. Its central location offers a short commute to the job hub of Pensacola, and the presence of amenities near major roads like Fairfield Drive makes it a practical choice for many residents.
Older properties in Brent might face issues typical of the era, such as Cast Iron Pipes, which can be a concern for sellers. However, the consistent demand for housing, driven by its family-friendly environment and established community feel, makes it a stable area. Accessibility to local parks and community centers adds to its appeal, fostering a sense of neighborhood camaraderie.
Bellview
Located to the west of central Ferry Pass, Bellview is another community that offers a more spread-out, suburban lifestyle. It features a mix of older, established homes and newer developments, providing a diverse range of housing options. Many residents commute east towards Pensacola for employment, utilizing main arteries like West Nine Mile Road. The area benefits from a good selection of public schools under the Escambia County School District, making it attractive to families.
Environmental considerations, such as portions lying within Zone AE flood plains, are factors residents sometimes need to manage, leading to increased insurance costs. Additionally, some properties, particularly those not connected to city sewer systems, may still contend with Septic Tank requirements, adding a layer of maintenance that modern buyers might want to avoid. Bellview maintains a strong community feel, often centered around local parks and smaller commercial nodes.
Ensley
North of Ferry Pass, Ensley is a diverse community with a strong local identity. It’s well-known for its access to major shopping centers and retail corridors along Nine Mile Road. Residents often find themselves commuting into Pensacola for work, experiencing the typical traffic on US-90 (Nine Mile Road), especially around the Nine Mile Road & Davis Highway intersection. The University of West Florida (UWF) is also within close reach, providing educational and recreational opportunities.
Housing here primarily consists of Ranch style (often concrete block construction) homes, with many properties dating back to the mid-20th century. Like other areas with older housing stock, issues such as deteriorating Cast Iron Pipes can be present. The community maintains a balance between residential tranquility and commercial convenience, making it a practical choice for many working families and students.
Pace (Santa Rosa County)
While technically in neighboring Santa Rosa County, Pace is a popular bedroom community for those working in Pensacola, especially for people looking for newer housing or a different school system. Many residents still endure the commute along US-90 (Nine Mile Road) into Escambia County for work at the Pensacola job hub. Pace has seen significant growth, offering newer homes and more modern amenities compared to some older parts of Ferry Pass.
Despite its proximity and popularity, the commute can sometimes be a deterrent due to the Nine Mile Road & Davis Highway intersection traffic. While typically having newer construction, some older sections might still contend with issues common to North Florida, and zoning can be complex due to rapid development. Pace appeals to those seeking a balance of community and growth, often with an emphasis on its distinct Santa Rosa County schools.