If you’re thinking about buying a home in Bellingham, you’re looking at a unique mix of scenic appeal, community, and quality of life. Located near the Canadian border with easy access to mountains, water, and trails, Bellingham is attractive for both lifestyle and affordability (relative to Seattle or Vancouver) — but it comes with challenges. Here’s a balanced look at what buyers need to know.

 Pros

🌲 Beautiful Setting & Lifestyle
Bellingham’s stunning location — nestled between Bellingham Bay and the North Cascades — makes it a standout choice for buyers who value outdoor recreation and a relaxed pace of life. The area offers hiking, kayaking, skiing, and more right at your doorstep, blending small-city convenience with nature.

📍 Affordable Compared to Seattle
While home prices in Bellingham aren’t cheap by national standards, they are significantly lower than in Seattle. On average, Bellingham homes are roughly 30-35% less expensive than Seattle homes, making it a comparatively more attainable option for many buyers.

📉 Less Market Pressure
Compared to Seattle’s ultra-competitive market — where starter homes often require very high incomes to afford — Bellingham’s market, though competitive, doesn’t usually demand the same steep premiums or frenzy. For buyers priced out of larger Puget Sound markets, Bellingham can be an appealing alternative.

🏙️ Community & Quality of Life
Bellingham blends a walkable downtown, strong local food and arts scenes, and a community feel that many first-time and lifelong buyers appreciate. Its size also means less congestion than Seattle, and closer-knit neighborhoods.

Cons

📈 Affordability Challenges
Even though it’s cheaper than Seattle, Bellingham’s home prices have climbed faster than local incomes, making it difficult for many current residents to step into homeownership.

📉 Tight Inventory
Housing inventory in Bellingham is low, with few homes available relative to demand. This means potential buyers must act quickly when homes come on the market.

Bellingham vs. Seattle: What Buyers Should Know