Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bellingham, WA
Thinking about moving to Bellingham, WA? Home to nearly 94,000 residents, Bellingham pairs Pacific Northwest charm with a vibrant college-town feel, anchored by Western Washington University. The median home price is around $599,000, with average rents near $1,550 and a moderate cost of living index. Residents enjoy short commutes of about 19 minutes, abundant outdoor recreation, and a strong educational presence. While property crime rates are above average, Bellingham boasts good healthcare access, highly educated neighbors, and a mild, maritime climate—making it a welcoming choice for newcomers seeking a lively, scenic community.
Demographics - Bellingham, WA
Demographics - Bellingham, WA
Bellingham has a population of nearly 94,000, characterized by a young median age of 32 and a diverse community, with about 22% identifying as non-white and 13.7% speaking a language other than English at home. The city's moderate population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to its vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.
Population:
93,910
Density:
3,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
32.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.7%
Ethnic Composition
White:
78.2%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
6.0%
Others:
14.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bellingham, WA?
The cost of living in Bellingham is higher than the national average, driven mostly by housing, with a median home value of $599,000 and average rent at $1,550. While utilities and transportation costs are relatively moderate, residents benefit from no state income tax and reasonable monthly expenses for essentials.
Median House Value:
$599,000
Gross Rent:
$1,550
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,430
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$740
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
127.4
Grocery:
110.6
Housing:
147.2
Utilities:
88.5
Transportation:
104.2
Health Care:
128.3
Miscellaneous:
106.0
Crime
Is Bellingham, WA a safe place to live?
Bellingham experiences a moderate level of crime, with a violent crime rate of 259 per 100,000 people and a higher property crime risk, where residents have a 1 in 36 chance of being affected. While the overall crime index suggests above-average property crime, most neighborhoods remain safe and community-oriented.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
259
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,805
Crime Index:
3,064
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 386
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 36
Weather
What is the weather like in Bellingham, WA year-round?
Bellingham enjoys a mild maritime climate, with cool winters averaging 33°F to 45°F and comfortable summers ranging from 52°F to 73°F. The city receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and experiences around 41% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate temperate weather and lush, green surroundings.
Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
45°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
59°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
73°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
41%
Neighbors
Residents of Bellingham enjoy a median household income of over $63,000 and a highly educated community, with nearly half holding a bachelor's degree or higher. While the poverty rate is somewhat elevated at 17.9%, the city is known for its short 19-minute average commute and strong sense of inclusiveness.
Median Income:
$35,700
Household Income:
$63,930
Family Income:
$86,900
Per Capita Income:
$35,700
Income Male:
$45,200
Income Female:
$36,800
Poverty Rate:
17.9%
Non English Speakers:
13.7%
Rent:
$1,550
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
3.2%
Commute Time:
19.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.4%
Bachelors or More:
47.3%
Education
How are the schools in Bellingham, WA?
Bellingham boasts a strong educational scene, highlighted by Western Washington University and Whatcom Community College, serving over 19,000 students combined. The city is also home to quality public and private schools, reflecting a community that values learning and academic achievement.
Public Schools
Name:
Bellingham High School
Street:
2020 Cornwall Ave
Phone:
360-676-6575
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.8
Name:
Fairhaven Middle School
Street:
110 Parkridge Rd
Phone:
360-676-6456
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.2
Private Schools
Name:
Assumption Catholic School
Street:
2116 Cornwall Ave
Phone:
360-733-6133
Students:
285
Colleges
Name:
Western Washington University
City:
Bellingham
State:
WA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
15,000
Name:
Whatcom Community College
City:
Bellingham
State:
WA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,100
Healthcare
Bellingham offers quality healthcare with a major hospital, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, and a high rate of insurance coverage at 93%. With 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents, locals have good access to medical services and emergency care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center
Address:
2901 Squalicum Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone:
(360) 734-5400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.1%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bellingham, WA?
Bellingham's housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $599,000 and low rental vacancy rates around 2.8%, indicating high demand. Home values have appreciated by over 4% in the past year, and less than half of residents own their homes, making renting a common choice.
Median Home Price:
$599,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,550
Owner Occupied Rate:
46.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
2.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
The Washington Department of Licensing in Bellingham provides convenient access for driver's licensing and vehicle registration at its centrally located office on E Holly St. Residents can visit the local branch or use online services for most DMV needs.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington Department of Licensing
Address:
605 E Holly St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone:
1-360-676-2096
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.