5 Reasons Why Bellingham is a Good Place to Live

Kayakers on Bellingham Bay. Alana Mey Top Realtor in Bellingham.

If you’re asking me, “Is Bellingham a good place to live?” The short answer is YES! Bellingham is actually a GREAT place to live. Now the more important part: why is Bellingham a good place to live?

I’m Alana Mey, and yes, I’m biased for the town I live in, and yes, I’m a realtor in Bellingham which means I would love for more people to move here and discover our amazing town and Whatcom County. But even beyond Bellingham are fantastic towns further north, like Ferndale, Lynden, Blaine, and even more to explore to the south as well! Keep reading and I’ll share why Bellingham is a good place to live – Then you can decide if it’s the right place for you!

To me, Bellingham, Washington, is more than just a city; it's a way of life, and after living here since 1998 I’ve been able to discover a lot about why Bellingham is such an amazing place to live. The breathtaking natural beauty, a vibrant community spirit, and a mix of small town with big events.

  1. Bellingham’s Natural Beauty

  2. Thriving Arts and Culture

  3. Exceptional Education

  4. Outdoor Adventures Aplenty

  5. A Robust Real Estate Market

Alana Mey, Compass Real Estate Agent and Realtor in Bellingham, WA

1. Nautral Beauty Abounds

One of the most compelling reasons to make Bellingham your home is its unparalleled natural beauty. Surrounded by the Salish Sea, the North Cascades, and the lush greenery of the Pacific Northwest, Bellingham offers stunning vistas at every turn. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply love breathtaking landscapes, Bellingham has it all.

  • Chuckanut Drive: Take a scenic drive along Chuckanut Drive and witness the dramatic views of rugged cliffs meeting the tranquil waters of the Puget Sound.

  • Whatcom Falls Park: Explore the picturesque Whatcom Falls Park with its serene waterfalls, walking trails, and lush greenery—a true urban oasis.

  • Mount Baker: For the avid skier or snowboarder, Mount Baker boasts some of the best powder in the region, making it a winter wonderland.

Largest Mural in Washington State. Alana Mey, Compass Real Estate Agent and Realtor in Bellingham, WA

2. Thriving Arts and Culture

Bellingham's cultural scene is alive and thriving, offering a wide range of experiences for residents and visitors alike. From live music and art galleries to theaters and film festivals, the city's vibrant arts community is sure to inspire and engage.

  • Mount Baker Theatre: Enjoy world-class performances, concerts, and events at the historic Mount Baker Theatre, a cornerstone of Bellingham's cultural landscape.

  • Downtown Art Walk: Explore the downtown art district during the monthly Art Walk, where you can discover local talent and unique art pieces.

WWU at Night. Alana Mey, Top Realtor in Bellingham.

3. Exceptional Education

Bellingham places a strong emphasis on education, making it an ideal location for families. The city is home to a range of highly regarded schools, from elementary through higher education.

  • Bellingham Public Schools: The Bellingham School District consistently ranks among the top districts in the state, offering a comprehensive education for students.

  • Western Washington University: As a major institution in the region, WWU provides numerous educational opportunities and contributes to the city's dynamic atmosphere.

  • Bellingham Technical College: Offering a long list of dynamic trades to study. There is a wealth of knowledge waiting for you here at BTC.

Dirt Biking in Bellingham. Alana Mey Compass Agent in Bellingham

4. Outdoor Adventures Aplenty

As an outdoor enthusiast myself, Bellingham is a paradise waiting to be explored. With an abundance of parks, hiking trails, and water-based activities, there's always an adventure just around the corner.

  • Lake Whatcom: Spend a sunny day on the shores of Lake Whatcom, boating, fishing, or simply enjoying a picnic with friends and family.

  • Galbraith Mountain: Hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners will find endless opportunities to explore the rugged terrain of world-renowned Galbraith Mountain.

5. A Robust Real Estate Market

The Bellingham real estate market offers a wide range of housing options to suit various preferences and budgets. Whether you're searching for a charming historic home, a modern condo, or a serene waterfront property, you're likely to find your dream home in Bellingham. Plus, if you need an escape to city life, Canada and Seattle are a short ride away. Investors can rejoice too, there are many single family and multi-family options to own and manage.


For these 5 reasons and 1,000 MORE, Bellingham is a GREAT place to live. It offers a lifestyle that combines the best of nature, cultural richness, educational excellence, outdoor adventures, and a thriving real estate market if you know how to navigate it.

Whether you're a nature lover, an art enthusiast, a family with young children, or simply looking for a place where you can enjoy a high quality of life, Bellingham has something for everyone. So, why wait? Make Bellingham your home and experience the magic of this Pacific Northwest gem for yourself.

If you're interested in exploring Bellingham's real estate market further or have any questions about making the move, feel free to book an appointment or schedule a call with me for personalized guidance and expertise. I'd be delighted to help you find the perfect place to call home in this remarkable town!

Thank you for reading!

Alana Mey

I’m a local Realtor at Compass Real Estate in Bellingham, WA. Serving my buyers and sellers since 2014 and thriving in my PNW Lifestyle with my husband, children and dog!

Text / Call: 360-421-0733
Email:
Alana.Mey@Compass.com

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