Bellingham

Where urban energy meets stunning natural beauty

Welcome to Bellingham

Bellingham is a jewel of the Pacific Northwest, a vibrant city where the lush greenery of the Cascade Mountains meets the sparkling waters of Bellingham Bay. Whether you’re drawn to its rich cultural scene, its stunning outdoor landscapes, or its charming neighborhoods, Bellingham offers an unbeatable quality of life. Known for its balance of urban excitement and natural serenity, this dynamic city is a haven for adventurers and creatives alike.
 
Stroll through the historic Fairhaven District, with its brick-lined streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafes, or enjoy the active downtown filled with breweries, art galleries, and live music venues. Proximity to iconic destinations like Mount Baker, Lake Whatcom, and Chuckanut Drive makes Bellingham a gateway to outdoor adventures, while its vibrant waterfront and community-centered events create a city that’s as welcoming as it is exciting.


What to Love

  • Access to incredible outdoor destinations like Whatcom Falls Park, Lake Padden, and Galbraith Mountain.
  • A thriving arts and culture scene featuring galleries, live music, and theater performances.
  • The charming Fairhaven District with unique shops and eateries.
  • Proximity to both Seattle and Vancouver for easy urban getaways.
  • A foodie’s paradise with a robust farm-to-table dining culture and local farmers markets

Local Lifestyle

Bellingham residents live life with a balance of energy and ease. Outdoor activities are part of the daily routine, whether it’s kayaking on Bellingham Bay, hiking Sehome Hill Arboretum, or biking the trails of Galbraith Mountain. The community thrives on local connections, from bustling farmers markets to intimate art walks downtown. Weekends often involve brewery hopping, exploring the stunning landscapes of nearby Mount Baker, or catching a live show at the historic Mount Baker Theatre. Life here is about embracing both the city’s natural beauty and its vibrant cultural spirit.


Dining and Shopping

Bellingham’s dining scene is as diverse as its residents, offering something for every palate. For fresh, sustainable seafood, Bayou on Bay provides a lively setting and a menu that celebrates the region’s coastal bounty.
 
Beer lovers will feel at home in Bellingham, a city that’s gained recognition as a craft brewing hub. Local favorites like Boundary Bay Brewery and Aslan Brewing Company offer not only excellent beer but also spaces where the community gathers to relax and connect. Meanwhile, coffee aficionados can find comfort in the city’s plethora of artisanal coffee roasters and cozy cafes.
 
Shopping in Bellingham offers a mix of unique finds and high-end selections. The Fairhaven District is a hotspot for boutique stores and artisan goods, while downtown Bellingham features everything from quirky antique shops to modern fashion retailers. Local farmers markets showcase the best of the region, from fresh produce to handcrafted goods, giving residents and visitors an authentic taste of the city.


Things to Do and Entertainment

Bellingham is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whatcom Falls Park provides an idyllic escape with cascading waterfalls, wooded trails, and serene picnic spots. For a more challenging adventure, head to Galbraith Mountain, a world-class destination for mountain biking that also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
 
Culture seekers will find plenty to enjoy in Bellingham’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene. The Mount Baker Theatre, a historic landmark, hosts everything from Broadway productions to local performances. Meanwhile, the city’s galleries, live music venues, and cultural festivals ensure there’s always something to inspire and delight.


Schools

Bellingham is served by the Bellingham School District, known for its commitment to academic excellence and student success. The city is also home to Western Washington University, a top-rated institution that brings a youthful energy to the community and provides access to higher education and cultural programming. Families and students alike benefit from the diverse educational opportunities available.
 
 

Based on information submitted to the MLS GRID as of . All data is obtained from various sources and may not have been verified by the broker or MLS GRID. Supplied Open House Information is subject to change without notice. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.

Overview for Bellingham, WA

129,601 people live in Bellingham, where the median age is 36.09320607094081 and the average individual income is $37,474.682. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

129,601

Total Population

36.09320607094081 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$37,474.682

Average individual Income

Around Bellingham, WA

There's plenty to do around Bellingham, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

63
Somewhat Walkable
Walking Score
66
Bikeable
Bike Score
34
Some Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Bellingham Pasta, Maniac Coffee Roasters, and Stella Sopra Italian.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining · $ 3.79 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 2.32 miles 10 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 2.1 miles 11 reviews 5/5 stars
Shopping 4.15 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Shopping 4.25 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.85 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Bellingham, WA

Bellingham has 54,316 households, with an average household size of 7.01. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Bellingham do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 129,601 people call Bellingham home. The population density is 1,867.246 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

129,601

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

36.09320607094081

Median Age

49.06 / 50.94%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
54,316

Total Households

7.01

Average Household Size

$37,474.682

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Bellingham, WA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Bellingham. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

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