Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Glacier, WA
Considering a move to Glacier, WA? This scenic mountain town has a small population of just 210, offering tranquility and proximity to outdoor recreation near Mount Baker. The median home price is about $385,000, with rents averaging $1,250—slightly above the national average. Violent crime rates are quite low (96 per 100K), and you’ll enjoy cool summers and abundant rainfall. Local schools are served by the Mount Baker district, and the nearest hospital is in Bellingham. Glacier is perfect for those seeking quiet, nature, and a close-knit community.
Demographics - Glacier, WA
Demographics - Glacier, WA
Glacier, WA is a small, tranquil community of about 210 residents, with a median age of 44.7 and a slightly higher proportion of males to females. The town is predominantly White, with a modest percentage of Asian and other ethnic groups, and around 8.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its low population density creates a peaceful, close-knit environment ideal for those seeking quiet living.
Population:
210
Density:
96 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.7
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
2.0%
Others:
5.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Glacier, WA?
The cost of living in Glacier is moderately higher than the national average, reflected in a cost of living index of 112. Housing costs are notable, with a median home value of $385,000 and average rents around $1,250 per month. Residents benefit from no state income tax, but should budget for slightly elevated expenses on groceries, utilities, and healthcare.
Median House Value:
$385,000
Gross Rent:
$1,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
112.0
Grocery:
110.3
Housing:
120.1
Utilities:
103.5
Transportation:
108.2
Health Care:
106.0
Miscellaneous:
101.5
Crime
Is Glacier, WA a safe place to live?
Glacier experiences very low violent crime, with only 96 incidents per 100,000 residents, and property crime is also relatively rare, offering residents peace of mind in their daily lives. The chance of encountering violent crime is about 1 in 1,042, making it a safe choice for families and individuals alike. This small-town safety is a key appeal for those seeking a secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
96
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,480
Crime Index:
1,576
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,042
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 68
Weather
What is the weather like in Glacier, WA year-round?
Glacier’s climate features cool temperatures year-round, with summer highs averaging in the mid-70s and winter lows dipping to the mid-20s. The area receives substantial rainfall—about 81 inches annually—and enjoys only 38% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate lush, green surroundings and a mountain atmosphere. Seasonal changes bring mild springs and crisp fall weather, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
59°F
Summer
Min:
49°F
Max:
74°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
57°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
81 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
38%
Neighbors
The median household income in Glacier is $56,500, with a poverty rate of 13.2% and an unemployment rate of 4.8%. Most residents commute about 30 minutes to work, and public transportation usage is minimal. The community is well-educated, with over 94% having completed high school and more than a quarter holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Median Income:
$41,000
Household Income:
$56,500
Family Income:
$66,000
Per Capita Income:
$32,000
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$34,000
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
9.0%
Rent:
$1,250
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
30.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.1%
Bachelors or More:
27.2%
Education
How are the schools in Glacier, WA?
Glacier is served by the Mount Baker School District, with local students attending schools such as Mount Baker Senior High and Kendall Elementary, both offering manageable class sizes. Higher education opportunities are accessible at Western Washington University in Bellingham, just 31 miles away. These educational resources provide quality learning environments for families and students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Mount Baker Senior High School
Street:
4936 Deming Rd
Phone:
360-383-2015
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.9
Name:
Kendall Elementary School
Street:
7547 Kendall Rd
Phone:
360-383-2055
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.7
Colleges
Name:
Western Washington University
City:
Bellingham
State:
WA
Distance:
31 miles
Students:
16,000
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Glacier includes proximity to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in nearby Bellingham, offering full emergency services. The area has a physician rate of about 2.1 per 1,000 residents, and most locals (92%) have health insurance coverage. This ensures that essential medical services are accessible for residents despite the town’s rural setting.
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:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.0%
Health Care Index:
78.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Glacier, WA?
The housing market in Glacier is primarily owner-occupied, with a 67.8% rate and a median home price of $385,000. Rental options are available, averaging $1,250 for a two-bedroom, and the market has seen nearly 5% appreciation in the past year. Vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, indicating a stable and desirable real estate landscape.
Median Home Price:
$385,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents of Glacier are served by the Washington State Department of Licensing, located in Olympia, which offers comprehensive motor vehicle and licensing services. The department can be reached at 360-902-3900 or through their official website for convenient access to information and resources. Efficient DMV services help streamline vehicle registration and licensing for locals.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
1125 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA 98501
Phone:
360-902-3900
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.