Are you considering a move to Bellingham? If so, you’re in for a treat. This vibrant, charming place is perfect for those who want to live in a small town with big city amenities. Here’s our guide to moving to Bellingham, packed with tips and advice from a local. Let us help you make the most of your relocating to your new home in Washington State!
What Are the Pros of Moving to Bellingham With the Help of Cross-Country Movers?
What are some of the most important reasons for relocating to this beautiful little spot in Washington State? Why choose Bellingham in Whatcom County instead of, let’s say, relocating to Seattle? There are countless benefits of relocating here, and this guide will show you exactly what makes this town special compared to some big cities you might also consider as places where you can find your new home.
Your soon-to-be new small town is known for its surrounding nature and its beauty. Bellingham Bay provides access to both the San Juan Islands and the ocean. Numerous lakes, such as Lake Whatcom, Lake Padden, and Lake Samish, offer a variety of water sports. The best place in the Pacific Northwest for mountain biking is Galbraith Mountain, and Bellingham is only around 60 miles east of Mount Baker Ski Resort.
With fifteen craft breweries and more opening up daily, this place can also be a beer enthusiast’s delight. This is a community that promotes its local farms and agriculture, with an outstanding local farmers market in the town’s center.
The neighborhoods offer an environment to fit any lifestyle, from its central neighborhoods near the downtown area to the beautiful south neighborhoods that surround the Fairhaven district, and with many other excellent spots that are still growing rapidly with new residents coming all the time.
Housing Options – What You Should Know About Home Value in This Town
For Whatcom County, home sales were down in June 2022 compared to June 2021, but home values increased by 15-20%. The highest monthly price for homes in 2022 was in June. Early in the year, interest rates started to increase. We reached the height of the marketplace frenzy in May when inventory levels were at record-low levels for the spring. So what comes next for property values here? The number of homes for sale is still substantially lower than it was in previous years when the housing market was strong and property values were rising.
However, there is still a decrease in home values as a result of rates drastically rising over the past nine months and now resting at close to 7%. This indicates that the market is generally in balance. Therefore, there is a good likelihood that home prices in Whatcom County will remain soft throughout the season and even decline much more.
What Are the Best Neighborhoods in This Lovely Town? Here’s Where You Should Move
When it comes to long-distance relocation tips, finding time to research potential neighborhoods is one of the most important ones – if you pick the wrong area of the town for your lifestyle, that could be one of the worst relocation mistakes. So, let’s make sure you move efficiently – we’ve gathered info on some of the best neighborhoods. Which one suits your style?
Fairhaven
Fairhaven, one of the town’s original neighborhoods, is a treasure trove of local culture and history. Fairhaven has a cruise port and local shops that are as distinctive as the renovated 19th-century buildings that contain them. It is located in the restored former working waterfront.
Almost everywhere in the old town has a view of the sea that is framed by gorgeous architecture. The neighborhood hosts a farmers market and fun events all year long with a particular focus on fostering community interaction. The people of this historic neighborhood work hard to ensure the region maintains its original, genuine appeal despite the neighborhood’s ongoing evolution, which now includes contemporary additions like condos.
Sudden Valley
This place is a stunning woodland refuge nestled just along Lake Whatcom. Come to Sudden Valley if you enjoy being surrounded by nature and a wide range of ways to be active! This beloved area is full of attractive pathways that weave through the huge wilderness populated with charming homes.
Roosevelt
Roosevelt is an accessible neighborhood that is full of natural attractions and city comforts like quick freeway access. It is home to many young families with kids. The established area is close to everything you could want while still feeling quite quiet, residential, and homely.
Geneva
Even though Geneva is only a short drive from downtown and amenities like Whole Foods, locals describe the area as having a rural feel and larger lots. The homes are surrounded by trees, giving the homeowners a private escape in the woods.
The lakeside homes are a source of pride for the residents, and the magnificent green grounds are a haven for wildlife. This tranquil neighborhood offers simple living and a relaxed way of life and is located east of the town center between Lake Whatcom and Lookout Mountain.
What to Expect in Terms of Income and Employment Opportunities?
Planning to move to a small home in a small town with the help of long-distance moving services? Then researching the economy in the town of your choice should be on your relocation to-do list. The average local family receives a median household income of $56,198, which is less than the $64,994 – the national average.
Who Are the Biggest Employers in Bellingham, WA?
Surely, you would like to get a job in the new town before the relocation day comes and your movers from a long-distance moving company arrive to do moving and packing services. Finding a job before moving is one of the relocation essentials. So, where can you expect to find a job before you move here to live on your own or with family (or maybe even move with a pet)? Here are some of the top employers in this town.
- Western Washington University,
- PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center,
- The City of Bellingham,
- Haggen,
- Fred Meyer,
- Bellingham School District,
- Whatcom County.
Let’s Talk About the Cost of Living – Is This an Expensive Place?
The median price of a property sold in this town is $405,700. A low supply of available homes for sale and strong employment and income growth have all contributed to the $1,133 median monthly rental cost. Whether you’re planning a last-minute move or you’re waiting for the cheapest time of year to relocate, you have to be ready for regular monthly expenses. Here’s what you need to know about some average costs in this beautiful Washington State town.
| Expenses | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly utilities | $195 |
| Renting a one-bedroom apartment outside of the center | $650 |
| Renting a three-bedroom apartment outside of the center | $2,433 |
| Price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city center | $6,727 |
| Price per square meter to buy an apartment outside of the center | $3,229 |
What Are the Transportation Options in This Part of Whatcom County – How Well is It Connected?
The county’s public transportation system, the Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA), runs a fixed bus service between Bellingham and its nearby cities. BoltBus intercity fast buses to Seattle and Vancouver stop at Cordata Station, which is close to Bellis Fair Mall. Other hubs include the Western Washington University campus and the downtown station. With service every 15 minutes, certain corridors feature frequent services known as “GO Lines.” Additionally, WTA provides intercity service to Mount Vernon, where riders can transfer to Skagit Transit for a subsequent trip to Everett.
Car Shipping Services
We can ship your vehicles using the best freight options available. Your car will be moved safely and securely and arrive as planned.
Storage Services
Looking for storage space while you get settled? California-Seattle Express provides 30 days free storage with your move.
Packing Services
Our professional packers have methods and techniques to ensure all your items are intact during and after the move.
Amtrak Cascades trains are scheduled to depart from Fairhaven Station twice daily for Vancouver and Seattle. A single Thruway bus excursion is also run by Amtrak to complement its train service along the corridor. The Alaska Marine Highway, a state-run ferry for people and vehicles, has its southern end at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, which is close to the Amtrak station. The ferries run to Haines, Juneau, and Ketchikan. San Juan Cruises, which offers seasonal passenger ferry service to Friday Harbor and the San Juan Islands, also provides service to the terminal.
Education Opportunities in Bellingham, WA
The town’s school district is Bellingham School District. Bellingham High School, Sehome High School, Options High School, and Squalicum High School are the city’s four public high schools. There are also four public middle schools and some great private schools as well. In addition to two community colleges (Community College of Whatcom and College Technical of Bellingham), this town is home to Western Washington University, which more than 16,000 kids attend. Check out the video below to see what the campus at this university has to offer.
Amenities of This Lovely Town – What Can You Expect?
Before you choose a relocation company to come to this town, you should learn a bit about its amenities. What makes it worth hiring movers and packing everything you own to relocate here? This part of Whatcom Country is known for its marvelous nature and strong community, but it doesn’t lack great amenities that would suit anyone looking for quality small-town life. Here are just a few of the excellent spots you will love once you move here.
Whatcom Falls Park
A 240-acre town park called Whatcom Falls Park may be found on the eastern outskirts of town. This public area has a lot of open space to explore, modern park amenities, and well-maintained hiking paths. The four distinct waterfalls are perhaps its most famous feature.
Fairhaven Historic District
Due to its coastal location and the flourishing logging business, Fairhaven town sprang to life in 1889. After 20 years of rapid expansion, Fairhaven merged with three other nearby communities to become what is now known as Bellingham. Imagine the Fairhaven Historic District in the present, and you’ll still find lively sidewalks, red-brick Victorian buildings, and the same stunning vistas of Bellingham Bay.
Farmers Market
The farmers market is held every Saturday from April through December at the city’s Depot Market Square. In the aisles of local purchasing options at these markets, there are more than 100 sellers. Many of the kiosks offer locally made crafts, fresh fruit, and homemade sweets. This exciting public event is accompanied by live local music.
Museum of Whatcom
The Whatcom Museum, which is accredited by the American Association of Museums, recently celebrated 75 years of serving as a regional showcase for the northwest’s arts and culture. The Whatcom Museum’s collection of more than 200,000 items offers more to discover than you can see in one weekend.
FAQ
Are People Moving From San Francisco to Bellingham?
Yes, many people move from SF to this lovely town in Washington State with help from movers California-Seattle. Moving out of a big city in order to come to this place full of nature is one of the better decisions you can make.
Are People Moving From Seattle to Bellingham?
With the help of movers from Seattle to California, you can move to various spots on the part of the western coast, which includes Washington, Oregon, and California. However, choosing Bellingham is one of the best relocation decisions. Many people decide to move here from Seattle in search of more relaxing and affordable living.
Are People Moving From Los Angeles to Bellingham?
Although many are relocating to Los Angeles, many are also leaving the City of Angels to come to one of the great spots in Washington State, including Bellingham. This town is worth all the fuss related to relocation – from packing boxes to moving furniture.
Don’t Overthink This Move – Find a Cross-Country Moving Company and Come to Bellingham
Deciding to move to a new town is never easy. There are so many factors to consider, from job opportunities and schools to housing and quality of life. But ultimately, the decision comes down to what you feel is best for you and your family. If you’re feeling stuck in a rut and are looking for a fresh start, Bellingham could be the perfect place for you.
With its beautiful location and vibrant community, it’s no wonder that so many people are choosing to make a move here. So what are you waiting for? Start packing your bags and get yourself the best relocation company to help you move to this lovely town!
