Moving to Bellingham WA: Your Ultimate Guide (2023)

Thinking about moving to Bellingham WA? The city of Bellingham is one of the best places to call your new home in the Pacific Northwest. Even though Bellingham is one of the largest cities in Washington State (#12, to be exact), it has a small-town charm and outdoor-first culture that is unlike any of the other cities in the Pacific Northwest. 

Located in the heart of Whatcom County, Bellingham is a blend of stunning natural landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts, a thriving art scene, and a cultural hub.

Moving can be scary business, especially if you’re moving from a long distance. There’s new street names to learn, new grocery stores to find, and a steep learning curve of finding new friends. Plus, not to mention – you have to change over all your mailing addresses, sign up for new utility providers, deal with packing and unpacking…

Ugh!

Well, hopefully, we can make things a bit easier for you when it comes to aiding your decision about moving to the Bellingham area. Our comprehensive guide about moving to Bellingham WA aims to provide you with a thorough understanding of what moving to Bellingham entails, covering essential aspects such as cost of living, job opportunities, housing costs, lifestyle, weather, and more. Hopefully, this article will equip you with the insights you need to make an informed decision about making Bellingham your new home. So, without further ado, here is your ultimate guide to moving to Bellingham WA:

Is It Expensive to Live in Bellingham WA?

Let’s be honest: it’s expensive to live just about anywhere these days (thanks, inflation!)

Unfortunately, Bellingham is no exception to this; Bellingham is known as having a medium to a high cost of living. Although it’s cheaper to live in Bellingham than a major metropolitan city (such as New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, etc.) – it’s still more expensive to live in Bellingham than, say, Spokane or Olympia.

Let’s look into a few factors that lead us to come to this conclusion:

Average Price of Single-Family Homes

As of August 2023, the national average home price in the United States is $416,100 (Fool.com), while the average price of the single-family home in Bellingham is $635,000 (Redfin). 

Average Price of Rent

According to RentCafe, The average rent for a one bedroom apartment in Bellingham is $2,150 (Zillow), whereas the average monthly rent in the U.S. is $1,726.

Of course, your overall cost of living is going to depend on several different lifestyle factors (such as whether or not you live in affordable housing, and how much you make), but in general, moving to Bellingham WA does have a higher cost of living than the national average. Don’t let this keep you from moving to Bellingham WA, however – Bellingham offers so many great benefits for residents…keep on reading!

What Do I Need To Know About Moving to Bellingham WA?

Whether you’re moving to Bellingham WA from down the street or across the country, there are several things to know that will make your moving to Bellingham WA a little bit easier:

• You may want to consider hiring a moving company. Whether you’re looking for full service movers that offer everything from packing services and labor services all the way to unpacking and unloading…or local movers who will just help you transport via moving truck.
• You may need to look into storage solutions if you have extra stuff so you can make your transition between your old home and your new home a bit easier.
• Depending on the area you’re moving to, you may need to get a permit for your moving truck. You can reach out to the City of Bellingham for assistance with this.

Is Bellingham a Good Place to Live?

In short, yes. Though, it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for a thriving city with lots of nightlife, star-studded events, and fast action – this is not the city for you. But then again, if you wanted to move to the PNW, you wouldn’t be looking for those things anyways, right?! 🙂

Bellingham is a great place for a lot of life’s milestones: attending college, post-grad, starting a family, raising a family, and even retiring. But it’s also great for people who are looking for an moderately-affordable city in the Pacific Northwest that’s close to nature, has great hospitality and has all of the modern amenities associated with suburbia. But life’s not all about good food and hikes (though we desperately wish it were) – so let’s go into some of the most important logistical aspects of moving to Bellingham WA:

School

If you have little ones, you can rest assured that the public schools and private schools in Bellingham are very good. With lower-than-average student-to-teacher ratios, students at the elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools will receive a top-notch education.

For those who are seeking collegiate knowledge, Western Washington University is located in Bellingham. Western’s Campus is absolutely beautiful and reflects the nature-first attitude that many Bellingham residents have when approaching every day life.

Entertainment

Bellingham has a huge art scene! This is never more evident than when you’re strolling by the various art galleries and art studios basically anywhere in Downtown Bellingham. Bellingham also likes to incorporate art into fun events, such as hosting art walks that highlight local artists, street art, and public murals. If you are more of an art museum person, check out the Whatcom Museum.

​If you like improv, we highly recommend checking out Bellingham’s acclaimed Upfront Theatre. One of their most popular shows is “Hellingham” – an improvised murder mystery show where the improvisers take inspiration from the audience to create their character for this captivating murder mystery performance. Fun stuff!

Food

Bellingham’s food scene is a captivating tapestry of flavors that reflects the city’s commitment to culinary innovation and sustainability. Embracing the bounties of the Pacific Northwest, the city boasts a thriving farm-to-table ethos, with numerous restaurants sourcing their ingredients locally, resulting in fresh food and seasonal menus that celebrate the region’s rich produce and seafood (for some truly excellent seafood, check out Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill – you’ll thank us!)

The Historic Fairhaven District and Downtown Bellingham serve as gastronomic epicenters, where international cuisines and fusion dishes intertwine with creative takes on classic favorites. Craft breweries (we highly suggest Boundary Bay Brewery if you like some good craft beer), wineries, and artisanal bakeries contribute to the city’s culinary tapestry, providing a holistic dining experience that pairs flavors with ambiance. 

​If you have dietary restrictions such as being vegan or gluten-free, don’t fear! Bellingham has a wide selection of places that cater to those with dietary restrictions, so there’s truly something for everyone.

Health

Bellingham’s main hospital is PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, a renowned facility offering a wide range of specialized medical care, including: emergency services, surgery, maternity care, and advanced diagnostics. 

The Bellingham area also features a network of clinics, urgent care centers, and private medical practices, catering to diverse medical needs. With a strong focus on holistic health, Bellingham also embraces alternative and integrative medicine such as acupuncture, naturopathy, and chiropractic (for example), providing residents with options beyond conventional treatments. 

Neighboring Cities

Nestled in the picturesque region of the Pacific Northwest, Bellingham is surrounded by an array of charming neighboring cities that contribute to the area’s vibrant cultural and natural tapestry. To the south of Bellingham lies Mount Vernon, known for its vast array of farmlands and annual Tulip Festival. Further south, the historic city of Everett boasts a rich industrial heritage and offers access to the stunning Puget Sound waterfront. To the north, the Canadian border is just 20 miles away, with Vancouver, British Columbia, offering a diverse urban experience and iconic skyline. Closer still, the quaint town of Lynden exudes Dutch influence through its architecture and annual Raspberry Festival, showcasing a tight-knit community proud of its heritage. These neighboring cities collectively enhance the allure of Bellingham, each contributing unique flavors to the region’s cultural and geographical panorama.

Canadian Access

If you want easy access to Canada, you’re in luck! Bellingham is located only 20 miles south of the Canadian Border, and only 53.5 miles south of the Vancouver BC downtown area. Many Bellingham residents have NEXUS – a program designed to speed up border crossings into the United States and Canada. NEXUS costs $50 per year and is valid for 5 years; children under 18 are free. The NEXUS program is a joint partnership between U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Canada Border Services Agency. 

What is Bellingham Known For?

First and foremost, Bellingham is known for the abundance of outdoor activities available to residents. Here are some of the most popular outdoor gathering places and what they offer:

• Silver Beach: Silver Beach, situated along the shores of Lake Whatcom, provides opportunities for water-based adventures such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The neighborhood is also surrounded by lush forests and hiking trails, inviting nature enthusiasts to explore the scenic terrain. Moreover, its convenient location—just about a 10 to 15-minute drive north from downtown Bellingham—ensures that these outdoor offerings are easily accessible for those seeking an escape into nature without venturing far from the city.
  
• North Cascade Mountains: The North Cascade Mountains, located east of Bellingham, Washington, offer an exceptional playground for outdoor enthusiasts seeking rugged adventures. This stunning mountain range is a haven for hikers, backpackers, and climbers, boasting a plethora of trails that wind through alpine meadows, old-growth forests, and breathtaking vistas. Activities like mountaineering, rock climbing, and backcountry camping are popular among those seeking a more challenging experience. 
  
• Mount Vernon: Located south of Bellingham, Washington, Mount Vernon offers an array of outdoor activities like fishing, birdwatching, and leisurely strolls along the riverbanks. The distance from Bellingham to Mount Vernon is approximately 30 miles, which can be covered in around 30 to 45 minutes by car, making it an accessible destination for a day trip filled with outdoor exploration. 
  
• Whatcom Falls Park: Whatcom Falls Park, nestled within Bellingham, Washington, is a serene haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking natural beauty and recreational opportunities like hiking, trail running, and birdwatching. The highlight is the iconic Whatcom Falls, where water cascades over rocky terrain, creating a picturesque waterfall perfect for photography and relaxation. 
  
• Lake Padden: Lake Padden, located just 15-20 minutes south of Bellingham, Washington, presents a myriad of outdoor activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The surrounding area features a network of trails suitable for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking, with varying levels of difficulty to cater to different fitness levels. The park also includes a golf course, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
  
• Mount Baker: Mount Baker, an iconic peak in the North Cascades Mountain Range, becomes a winter haven for snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. During the warmer months, the mountain’s trails and alpine meadows invite hikers, backpackers, and mountaineers to experience the beauty of the high country. The distance between Bellingham and Mt. Baker varies depending on the specific trailhead or destination within the area, but the journey can take around 1.5 to 2 hours by car. 
  
• San Juan Islands: The San Juan Islands, a scenic archipelago northwest of Bellingham, Washington, offer an enchanting array of outdoor activities like kayaking, sailing, and boating. The distance from Bellingham to the San Juan Islands varies depending on which island you visit, but the ferry ride from Anacortes to Friday Harbor, for example, takes about an hour. P.S. you might even spot some whales on your journey!
  
• Bellingham Bay: Bellingham Bay, hugging the western edge of Bellingham, Washington, offers a diverse range of outdoor activities along its scenic shores. Kayakers and paddleboarders can explore the calm waters, while sailors and boaters can navigate the bay’s picturesque expanse. The waterfront parks provide spaces for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying sunset views over the bay. Bellingham Bay is conveniently located within the city limits, making it an easily accessible escape for residents and visitors alike.

Besides nature, here are some other things that Bellingham is known for:

• Bellingham is known as the “City of Subdued Excitement: Bellingham is often referred to as the “City of Subdued Excitement” due to its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere despite its vibrant arts, culture, and outdoor recreational offerings. The nickname reflects the city’s unique blend of lively cultural events, outdoor adventures, and a strong sense of community, all presented in a more understated and calm manner compared to larger urban centers. 
• Bellingham is known for some of the strictest speed limit enforcements in the nation. So, if you’re moving to Bellingham WA, make sure you watch your speed limit when driving…or else!

Is Bellingham Worth Visiting?

If you’re thinking about moving to Bellingham WA, we would definitely recommend that you schedule a visit to scope out your new potential digs. Depending on if you intend to rent or buy, you may even want to consider scheduling a meeting with a real estate agent. This could be especially helpful since your real estate agent would be able to help you look at new neighborhoods and show you around all that beautiful Bellingham has to offer.

What is the weather in Bellingham WA?

One thing you need to know about moving to Bellingham WA is that you will enjoy very moderate temperatures. Bellingham, Washington, experiences a maritime climate characterized by mild and moderate weather patterns influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The city enjoys relatively mild temperatures throughout the year:

Spring: In spring, Bellingham experiences gradually warming temperatures and blossoming landscapes, with occasional rain showers contributing to the lush and vibrant environment.

Summer: Summers are pleasantly warm, with average highs in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-29°C), offering a comfortable atmosphere for outdoor activities.

Fall: Fall in Bellingham brings crisp air, vibrant foliage, and an increase in rainfall, creating a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and seasonal festivities.

Winter: Winters bring cooler and wetter conditions, with average highs in the 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (4-12°C) and frequent rainfall…sometimes, even snowfall!

How Do I Get In and Out of Bellingham WA?

Bellingham offers a diverse range of transportation options in and out of the city, ensuring convenient connectivity for both residents and visitors. Here are the three main ways in and out of Bellingham (hint: planes, trains, and automobiles!):

Planes

The Bellingham International Airport is the third largest airport in Washington, but it’s still a pretty small airport. Here are the direct flights that are currently offered from Bellingham International Airport:

• Denver, Colorado – DEN – Southwest
• Las Vegas, Nevada – LAS – Southwest, Allegiant Air
• Los Angeles, California – LAX – Allegiant Air
• Oakland, California – OAK – Southwest, Allegiant Air
• Palm Springs, California – PSP – Allegiant Air
• Phoenix, Arizona – AZA – Allegiant Air
• San Diego, California – SAN – Allegiant Air
• Seattle, Washington – SEA – Horizon Air

San Juan Airlines also offers both charter and scheduled flights to Point Roberts, Lopez, Eastsound, and Friday Harbor…so you can get your island on at any time!

Trains

For those seeking a scenic route, the Amtrak Cascades train service runs through Bellingham, offering a relaxing and picturesque ride along the coast. The Cascades train runs from Eugene, Oregon, all the way up to Vancouver, B.C. (Bellingham is the last stop before Vancouver, B.C.)

Roads

Bellingham is well-connected by several major freeways: I-5 and SR 539. If you’re coming from a city with lots of traffic, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn that Bellingham’s freeways are not nearly as congested as in other cities (such as Seattle, Los Angeles, or San Francisco).

Interstate 5 (I-5) serves as the main artery, running directly through Bellingham and connecting it to cities both to the south and the north, including Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia. This crucial north-south route ensures easy access for travelers, commuters, and freight transport. 

Additionally, State Route 539 (SR 539), also known as the Guide Meridian, provides a direct connection from Bellingham to the Canadian border, offering an alternative route to enter or exit the city and access neighboring communities. 

These well-maintained freeways not only enhance Bellingham’s accessibility but also contribute to its significance as a regional hub for commerce, tourism, and transportation.

What is the Shopping Like in Bellingham WA?

Let’s get the most important thing out of the way first: yes, Bellingham has a Costco, multiple Starbucks, and several Targets. Great, now that we’ve established that Bellingham can hold its salt compared to other cities, let’s talk about the other shopping in Bellingham. Bellingham offers a variety of malls and shopping districts where residents and visitors can indulge in retail therapy and find a wide range of products. Some of the notable shopping destinations in Bellingham include:

• Bellis Fair Mall: A major shopping mall featuring a variety of stores, ranging from Bath and Body Works to Old Navy to Macy’s.
  
• Downtown Bellingham: A charming area with independent boutiques, art galleries, craft shops, and specialty stores, providing a unique shopping experience.
  
• Fairhaven Village District: A historic district with a selection of boutiques, bookstores, art galleries, and specialty shops, known for its unique and eclectic offerings.

Wrapping Up

Remember that every new adventure comes with its challenges and adjustments, but with the knowledge gained from this article, you’re well-equipped to navigate and fully appreciate the unique tapestry that Bellingham weaves. So, as you unpack your bags and settle into your new life here, may you find comfort and joy in the layers of culture, nature, and community that make Bellingham a truly great new place to call home.