8 Reasons to Move to Bellingham, WA

Andi • February 10, 2016

By Raven Petty on July 15, 2015

Bellingham, WA

PHOTO CREDIT: Flickr user: Heather Harvey

Moving to Bellingham, Wash., offers opportunities to enjoy abundant attractions and entertainment, year-round recreation, and access to major metros, allowing residents to live in a smaller city (pop. 80,000) with big-city amenities. Bellingham sits only 90 miles north of Seattle, 21 miles south from the Canadian border and 52 miles south of Vancouver, B.C. The city’s location offers residents plenty of at-home things to do and easy access to nearby larger metros. Here are seven more reasons to move to Bellingham:

Upper Whatcom Falls
Whatcom Falls Park features waterfalls and serene places for hiking. Flickr user Eric Frommer

Whatcom Falls Park

Highly ranked on TripAdvisor for its beautiful waterfalls, peaceful serenity and walking trails, Whatcom Falls Park is a 241-acre park that features a fish hatchery, picnic areas, tennis and basketball courts, and fishing derby pond. Regulars praise the park as a great place to hike, unwind, and hang out with friends and family, and the park is enjoyed year round.

Annette Bagley, director of marketing for Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism and resident for 17 years credits the city’s recreation and open spaces as one reason why it’s a great place to live.

“It is a great place live because of the proximity to open space and nature. Bald eagles fly over our homes on a regular basis. Bike lanes are prolific, and residents use them regularly,” she says.

Water recreation, Bellingham, WA
Bellingham offers four-seasons of recreation and lots of places to play. Flickr user: cilesfineline

Other Recreation, Fitness Friendly – No. 2

In addition to Whatcom Falls Park, Bellingham residents have four-season options for recreation. In fact, the city was given the No. 2 spot for Fitness Friendly Cities in the U.S. by SmartAsset.com.

“[Residents enjoy] easy access to outdoor recreation options from saltwater kayaking and sailing to city and mountain trails for running, hiking and biking. Also, moderate temperatures keep the landscape green for most of the year. We are fiercely protective of our parks, trees and green spaces,” Bagley says.

Bellingham also offers season-special events ranging from Wings Over Water, an annual bird-watching event in the spring to Cloud Mountain Fall Fruit Festival, a popular festival that features more than 200 varieties of fruits, cider, nuts, and jellies and sauces.

 

Diverse Neighborhoods

Looking for Old World architecture? What about shoreline views and resort living? Or how about rustic mountain views? It’s no problem to find all that and more in Bellingham, which offers 25 distinct areas in which to live. Blaine is known as the busiest border crossing between British Columbia and Washington State, while Lynden reflects its Dutch heritage and is surrounded by farmland, which is the largest raspberry producing area in the U.S.

Bank, Fairhaven Historic District
Fairhaven Historic District is one of Bellingham’s most popular neighborhoods. Flickr user: Tony Hisgett

Fairhaven Historic District

This historic district serves as the area’s premier place for entertainment, shopping and dining. Twelve historic buildings, many dating as early as the 1890s, help showcase the city’s rich history, while new restaurants and shops continue open regularly. Cultural attractions include jazz shows, an outdoor cinema, art walks and writers’ workshops. The district is also home to Village Books , one of the longest running and best independent bookstores in the nation.

Other arts and culture in the city includes the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention, the Pickford Film Center and the Upfront Theatre, as well as the Mount Baker Theatre and Whatcom Museum.

Small Business Support

Thinking of starting a business, or do you already own one? If so, Bellingham may be the place to move.

“Bellingham residents love supporting local businesses including craft breweries, small farmers, independent retailers and Do It Yourself ‘makeries,’” Bagley says.

Bellingham SCORE Chapter 591 helps new and small businesses start and grow nationally through free mentoring, workshops and events. The chapter is part of SCORE, which has 364 chapters throughout the U.S. Additionally, small businesses can find support at WWU’s Small Business Development Center, with free services such as developing a business plan, obtaining financing and managing cashflow.

Boundary Bay Brewery, Bellingham
Bellingham is home to several breweries, representing the city’s support for local business. Flickr user: Heather Harvey

Breweries

As microbrews continue to gain traction, Bellingham has no shortage of their own breweries. Among them is the highly rated Boundary Bay Brewery and Bistro, located in a restored 1922 warehouse in downtown Bellingham. Yelp reviews rave about the beer selection, atmosphere and food, which is all locally sourced. Other top-rated breweries include Aslan Brewing Company, Chuckanut Brewery and Kitchen, and Kulshan Brewing Co. See where Bellingham ranked on our Top 10 Beer Cities 2014 list.

Western Washington University Campus
WWU is a top-rated university with more than 15,000 students. Flickr user: Bethany Weeks

Schools

Students in Bellingham also have access to quality education options. Home to more than 15,000 students, Western Washington University is a top choice for education in Bellingham. WWU offers 160-plus academic programs, and it is often praised for its green efforts. Accolades include U.S. News and World Report , Forbes and Kiplinger’s , and G.I. Jobs selected WWU as a Military Friendly School. Ranked in the top 25 in the state by U.S. News is Squalicum High School, which is part of the Bellingham Public Schools district.

Raven Petty – a native Nashvillian – enjoys as much variety in her work as she does her hobbies. She is a graduate of Tennessee State University with a B.A. in English, and her greatest passions are proofreading and editing, movies, music, and cars.

 

From Your Porch to Their Pantry – Bellingham Food Drive

By Andi Dyer • November 11, 2025
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Swedish Glogg Recipe

By Andi Dyer • November 10, 2025
To make traditional Swedish Glögg (mulled wine), you gently heat red wine and spirits with a blend of spices, orange zest, and sugar. The mixture is then strained and served warm with blanched almonds and raisins. Ingredients 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, or a Cotes du Rhone) 1/2 to 1 cup sugar (caster or granulated, to taste) 1/2 to 1 cup vodka, aquavit, bourbon, or brandy (optional, for a stronger drink) 1 orange (peel in wide strips, avoiding the white pith) 1 cinnamon stick 10 whole cloves 10 cardamom pods, lightly crushed 3-4 slices fresh ginger, peeled (optional) 1/2 cup raisins (plus more for serving) 1/2 cup blanched slivered almonds (for serving) Instructions Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, sugar, orange zest strips, cinnamon stick, cloves, crushed cardamom pods, and ginger slices (if using). Add the raisins and almonds into the mixture or save them for serving. Heat Gently Warm the mixture over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely. It is crucial that the mixture is heated gently and never allowed to boil, or the alcohol will cook off and the flavor will be spoiled. The temperature should stay below 175°F (77°C). This process typically takes 10-15 minutes. Steep Remove the pot from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let the spices infuse the wine. This can be done for at least 1 hour, or ideally, the mixture can be left to steep overnight in a cool place for a more intense flavor. Strain and Reheat Strain the glögg through a fine-mesh strainer to remove all the spices and orange peel. Discard the spices. Gently reheat the liquid over low heat until hot but not boiling. Add Spirit (Optional): Just before serving, stir in the vodka, aquavit, or other spirit of your choice, if using. Serve Ladle the warm glögg into small heatproof glasses or mugs. Garnish each serving with a few additional blanched almonds and raisins, which are traditionally eaten with a small spoon as you drink.

Winter Recipe: Pomegranate & Pear Green Salad with Ginger Dressing

By Andi Dyer • November 4, 2025
Bring a burst of color (and flavor!) to your table with this crisp, seasonal salad. Juicy pears, tart pomegranate seeds, and a lively ginger dressing make it a refreshing side for any fall or holiday meal.  🍁 Click below to get the recipe and add a little sparkle to your menu!

How One Bellingham Homeowner Dodged Thousands in Property Taxes (and How You Can Too)

By Andi Dyer • November 2, 2025
Got a surprise property tax bill? You may be able to appeal—but don’t wait. One homeowner called me two days before the deadline, and we built a successful appeal together. Check your 2025 valuation and email me “Tax Check” for a free review. It started with a Saturday night phone call. Frantic, a local homeowner reached out just days before the property tax appeal deadline. Their 2024 assessment had landed with a thud, forecasting a tax bill that felt wildly out of line with reality. The deadline to appeal? Monday, October 27th. Cue the scramble. That evening, too stormy to drive, I hunkered down at home and dove into the numbers. Something wasn’t right. The new valuation didn't match the trajectory of their neighborhood market. The math simply didn’t check out. Sunday morning, we got to work. I drove out to their property, and together we built a bulletproof appeal. We reviewed sales data, took updated photos, and pulled relevant comparables to submit with their documentation. The appeal package was ready to go by Monday morning. Crisis averted. Here’s what every Whatcom County homeowner should know: Your property valuation notice typically arrives in September. You have 30 days from the date on the notice to file an appeal. If the number looks off, don’t shrug and hope it’s close enough. You can challenge it—and often should, especially in fluctuating markets like Bellingham, Ferndale, and beyond. The key takeaway? Don’t wait until the last minute. It pays to be proactive. Assessments aren’t always accurate, and appealing your property valuation could save you thousands. If your 2025 valuation doesn’t reflect the true market value of your home, you have options—and you don’t have to figure them out alone. Let’s make sure you’re not overpaying. If your new valuation feels too high, DM me "Tax Check" and I’ll give you a free property value review. We’ll go over the numbers together and see if an appeal makes sense. Still have questions? Let’s meet for coffee and talk it through. I’m always happy to help you navigate the less-fun-but-super-important parts of homeownership.

Fall Recipe: Vegetable Lasagna

By Andi Dyer • October 29, 2025
🍂 This hearty vegetable lasagna is the perfect fall meal—warm, colorful, and packed with seasonal goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels just as good on a weeknight as it does at a fall gathering.

Bellingham Real Estate October 2025: A Balanced Market with New Opportunities

By Andi Dyer • October 29, 2025
Quick Take: Bellingham’s 2025 housing market offers something refreshingly rare - balance. More listings, steady prices, and moderate competition are giving both buyers and downsizers room to breathe and act strategically. 

Best Neighborhoods in Bellingham for Long-Term Growth

By Andi Dyer • October 21, 2025
Looking to invest smartly or plan your next move in Whatcom County? Some local neighborhoods are showing impressive signs of growth, value retention, and strong rental potential making them ideal for long-term appreciation. Here’s a look at five communities worth keeping on your radar: 1. Roosevelt (Bellingham) With its central location, large lots, and ADU-friendly zoning, Roosevelt continues to attract buyers who want flexibility and walkable convenience. It’s a favorite among those seeking character and proximity to downtown. 2. Birch Bay This waterfront community is seeing major infrastructure upgrades and renewed interest as a vacation and investment hub. Its scenic shoreline and growing amenities make it a strong contender for long-term appreciation. 3. Ferndale (East Side) With newer developments, room to expand, and commuter-friendly access to I-5, East Ferndale offers both value and convenience. It’s an area where growth feels steady and sustainable. 4. Columbia (Bellingham) Known for its historic charm and tight-knit feel, Columbia holds its value remarkably well. Buyers love its tree-lined streets and classic homes — perfect for light renovations or long-term investment. 5. Sudden Valley An affordable entry point into lake life, Sudden Valley combines trails, community amenities, and access to Bellingham with room to grow. Its popularity among remote workers continues to rise. 📊 Want to See Data for Your Favorite Neighborhood? I can send you a custom report with market trends and appreciation forecasts tailored to your goals.

It's Time to Gather Around the Table

By Andi Dyer • October 20, 2025
Hello Bellingham, This season, I’m thrilled to share a special partnership with Cranberry Sky Heirloom Rentals, a local gem that makes entertaining beautiful and stress-free. As a client of mine, you’re invited to enjoy an exclusive perk: ✨ Book any rental with CSHR (just a $25 minimum) and receive a complimentary Soup Buffet or Cocoa Station setup for up to 10 guests, complete with classic, mix-and-match dishes, mugs, serving pieces, and ladles. Everything you need (except the food and heat source) to wow your guests with ease. Perfect for: A cozy après-ski snack Fall harvest dinners & Friendsgiving Holiday parties (Christmas, New Year’s, Galentine’s) Or even a neighborly weekend get-together Event bookings are open October 1, 2025, through March 31, 2026. Upgrades and delivery options available. Because gathering should feel as good as home. 🏡' 

Download My Free Local's Guide

By Andi Dyer • October 20, 2025
Hey Bellingham, Bellingham isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to live, savor, and explore. From seaside sunsets and cozy coffee shops to mossy forest trails and dog-friendly hangouts, our city has a rhythm all its own. I’ve rounded up my personal favorites in a free download: A Local’s Guide: My Top 10 Favorites in Bellingham. You’ll find hidden gems, local eats, and can’t-miss experiences that make this corner of Whatcom County feel like home. Whether you’re new to the area or just want to rediscover it through fresh eyes, this guide is your invitation to wander like a local. 📍 Download the guide now and start exploring the best of Bellingham. One latte, trail, and sunset at a time.

First-Time Homebuyer Class (2-Nights)

By Andi Dyer • October 20, 2025
Hello Bellingham, LAST Chance: First-Time Homebuyer Class | 2-Night Event You’ve got one more chance this year on October 20 and October 21 from 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm to complete the two-night series at Movement Mortgage:2200 Rimland Dr, Suite #250, Bellingham, WA 98226. Why join us: Unlock up to $40,000 in down payment assistance through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (eligibility applies; this class is required to qualify). Whatcom County market snapshot: what’s moving, what’s sitting, and why. Clear, step-by-step game plan: financing → offers → inspections → keys. Live Q&A with local pros. Bring your questions (we’ll translate the acronyms). Save your seat! Space is limited—these are our final classes of the year. P.S. Assistance programs have eligibility requirements and limited funds. We’ll walk you through the details so you know exactly where you stand.
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