Bellingham offers a range of neighborhoods with different layouts, features, and access to local businesses or nature. Some areas are known for walkability and cafes, while others appeal to people looking for quiet streets or proximity to the waterfront. The city's layout allows you to live near trails, food, and community spots without being far from downtown.

If you're exploring neighborhoods in Bellingham, the list below highlights some of the most well-known and interesting areas to consider.

Fairhaven is located in the southern part of Bellingham near the waterfront. It features historic brick buildings, small bookstores, coffee shops, and independent businesses. The streets are walkable and designed to support both residents and visitors. The architecture gives the neighborhood a unique visual identity, and the layout promotes relaxed exploration. This area also includes access to the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry Terminal and Boulevard Park. Fairhaven continues to be one of the most visited neighborhoods in Bellingham due to its central location and easy access to public waterfront paths.

Columbia is one of the oldest residential neighborhoods in the city. Located just north of downtown, it includes tree-lined streets and a grid layout that’s easy to navigate. Homes in this neighborhood reflect early 20th-century designs, and the area has maintained a consistent visual style. People who live in Columbia often walk to nearby parks or small corner shops. Elizabeth Park sits within the neighborhood and hosts summer concerts in open green space. Local businesses are located just outside the neighborhood boundary, making it convenient without being commercial.

Lettered Streets is located immediately northwest of downtown Bellingham. It includes streets named after letters (A through H) and is known for its early 1900s homes and compact city blocks. Centrally located, it’s a neighborhood where people often walk or bike to nearby markets or coffee shops. The layout supports residential density without feeling too busy. Over the years, the neighborhood has added small apartment buildings and updated intersections to support continued growth.

South Hill sits between Fairhaven and downtown and includes some of the city’s best views of Bellingham Bay. The steep streets wind through an established residential area with older homes. While not as commercial as other areas, South Hill offers quick access to Boulevard Park and the South Bay Trail. People who choose South Hill often do so for the location and layout. It’s near Fairhaven’s business district and within biking distance of downtown. The streets are quiet and connect to walking paths along the bluff.

Sunnyland is northeast of downtown and includes a blend of residential, commercial, and light industrial zones. Many people in Sunnyland walk or bike to Trader Joe’s, Kulshan Brewing, or Twin Sisters Brewing Company. The homes here are modest, and many include small yards or gardens. The neighborhood is active, with residents often walking dogs or heading to local food spots. Sunnyland continues to develop with new businesses moving into the area while keeping a low-key residential character.

Sehome is just east of downtown and near Western Washington University. The neighborhood includes older homes, rental properties, and new builds. It’s defined by its central hill, which provides some city views and quick access to downtown streets. Sehome includes Sehome Hill Arboretum, a forested area with trails, bike paths, and an observation tower. This gives residents easy access to walking routes without leaving the neighborhood. The compact area allows quick trips into downtown or over to the university area.

Cornwall Park is located in the northern part of the city and centers around a large public park of the same name. The park includes disc golf, paved walking trails, tennis courts, and wide-open lawns. It's one of the most complete park spaces in Bellingham. The surrounding neighborhood includes single-family homes on quiet streets. While the area doesn’t have many businesses inside its boundaries, nearby roads provide quick access to shopping and services.

Edgemoor is located southwest of Fairhaven and borders Chuckanut Drive. It’s a quiet neighborhood with wide streets, large lots, and recent home construction. The area sits close to the bay and includes limited beach access along Chuckanut Bay. There are no commercial areas within Edgemoor, but it’s only a few minutes by car or bike to the restaurants and shops of Fairhaven. People who live here often prioritize privacy, space, and scenic surroundings.

Barkley sits on the city's eastern side and includes a mix of office buildings, retail stores, and residential streets. The neighborhood has been developed recently and includes wide roads, bike lanes, and pedestrian paths. The Barkley Village shopping center offers groceries, restaurants, and professional services in one location. Barkley connects to nearby trails and greenbelts, offering a balance of commercial access and open space. It’s a well-maintained part of the city that supports living and working without crossing town.

If you're buying or selling a home in Bellingham or the greater Whatcom County area, Josh Crown is the agent to have in your corner. As someone who relocated and lived throughout Bellingham’s neighborhoods before settling in Lynden, Josh offers practical insight and firsthand knowledge beyond what you’ll find in listings. With over $25 million in residential sales and more than 45 successful transactions since 2023, he’s quickly built a reputation for results and trusted guidance.

Reach out today to start your next move.