10 Bellingham Neighborhoods You'll Want to Live In

Welcome to the “City of Subdued Excitement”

Sounds kinda downbeat? Don’t let that throw you off!

Bellingham, Washington, is a super cool coastal city with awesome outdoor vibes, beautiful views, and a laid-back community.

It's close to both Seattle and Vancouver, Canada, offering everything from scenic hiking trails to a vibrant arts scene and amazing local food.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-filled, and laid-back lifestyle, it’s the perfect place to call home.

Well, let’s explore Bellingham some more to help you find your perfect neighborhood.

Top 10 areas to live in Bellingham, WA

Sehome

If you want a neighborhood that has easy access to the downtown area, has walkable and bike-friendly streets, Sehome is for you.

This is a perfect area to live in for young professionals who need easy access to public transportation and for students who are studying in Western Washington University. Sehome is also perfect for families who are looking for a neighborhood that caters to different budgets and lifestyles.

Downtown Bellingham

If you are looking for a neighborhood that matches your hassle-free lifestyle, you’ll love living in Downtown Bellingham.

It offers a lively and walkable city life, but still feels like you’re living in a small town. Yes, that’s possible in Downtown Bellingham! You’ll enjoy easy access to diverse dining, craft breweries, and social events and still enjoy being close to parks and waterfronts for outdoor activities.

Edgemoor

Are you looking for a high-end and gorgeous house to live in? Well, who isn’t? You may want to check out the homes in Edgemoor. They have beautiful and luxury homes located along Bellingham Bay. If the high-end life is your thing, then you’ll want to live in Edgemoor.

Lettered Streets

The Lettered Streets is a cool hodgepodge neighborhood where you’ll find everyone from seniors and working folks to young families and students.

It’s the kind of place where neighbors have your back but also give you your space. Definitely another neighborhood perfect for families. There are plenty of spots to picnic and playt with your kids. If you’re looking to relax, just take a charming stroll down Broadway Park or Fouts Park!

Geneva

Just a short drive from Downtown, Geneva feels like a peaceful, woodsy escape tucked between Lake Whatcom and Lookout Mountain.

It’s a super laid-back neighborhood. You can hit the tennis courts at Whatcom Falls Park, enjoy lakeside living, or explore the nearby wildlife for that perfect suburban vibe. And if you’re into boating, Lake Whatcom is right there for you, ready for adventure.

Alabama Hill

Alabama Hill is a great quiet neighborhood that combines community and natural beauty.

This neighborhood is perfect for families, offering diverse housing options, a peaceful lifestyle, and convenient access to schools and outdoor activities. If your family loves nature, you'll never tire of the stunning views of Bellingham Bay and Lake Whatcom.

Happy Valley

Looking for a private paradise nestled in the center of the city? Welcome to Happy Valley!

Happy Valley is located between Western Washington University and the Fairhaven neighborhood. This neighborhood is also a home to diverse groups of older folks and more reserved college crowds. And wouldn’t it be nice to tell people you live in a place called Happy Valley? ;)

Fairhaven

Fairhaven, being one of the first neighborhoods in Bellingham, is a cozy historic neighborhood with a mix of old charm and modern perks. It's a walkable area with good shops, cafes, and tasty restaurants!

One of the Fairhaven’s go-to spots is Stones Throw Brewery, it’s built out of shipping containers! They have a beautiful beer garden where people love relaxing after a long day of hiking. It’s a dog-friendly, kid-friendly kind of brewery.

Barkley

A charming and homey neighborhood located north of Alabama Hill.

Barkley is home to the Barkley Village, one of the first urban villages in the area, where everything you need is within reach. And it is true. It’s a Bellingham neighborhood where you can find both residential and business areas. And you don’t have to go far to enjoy amenities such as dining, shopping, and entertainment. Scramble Nature Playpark for the kids. Happy hour at The Blue Abode Bar for the adults 😉

Sudden Valley

Another valley we have is the Sudden Valley! Sunbathe on shore. Go boating at Lake Whatcom. Hangout at Sudden Valley Golf Course. Feeling tired? The Salon and Day Spa of Sudden Valley’s got you.

If you really want to live in a place with a peaceful and quiet vibe with a low population, Sudden Valley is perfect for you.

Which Bellingham Neighborhood is for You?

Bellingham surely is one of the gems of the Pacific Northwest.

Choosing the right Bellingham neighborhood can take time - or it might not. Sometimes, a place just feels like home the moment you arrive.

So to help you out, you can always check out these houses for sale in Bellingham, Washington first and see which one seems like your next home—and is perfect for your budget.