Life in Bellingham
Bellingham is a perfect destination for those who love the outdoors. It has access to both the ocean as well as the San Juan Islands and is also located near several lakes including Lake Whatcom, Lake Samish, and Lake Padden. Bellingham’s location near all of this water makes it possible for residents to enjoy a variety of water activities. Galbraith Mountain is also the premier mountain biking destination of the Pacific Northwest, and Mt. Baker ski resort is less than 60 miles from Bellingham.
Aside from the great outdoors, Bellingham is known as a beer lover’s paradise, with more than 15 craft breweries. You will also find downtown farmer’s markets that support local agriculture and plenty of great restaurants serving up fresh seafood and delicious seasonal fare.
Bellingham’s location near many other large metropolitan areas also makes it an ideal city to live in for many people. It is only a couple of hours away from Seattle and Vancouver, the two largest cities in the Pacific Northwest. Its proximity to the San Juan Islands, Mt. Baker, and North Cascade Mountains also makes it possible to enjoy an easy weekend getaway.
Weather in Bellingham
Bellingham is known for its beautiful, mild summers with daytime highs around 70 and daylight lasting well into the evening hours. There is also plenty of sunshine, making summers in Bellingham an absolute delight. Winters, on the other hand, can get quite cold, with temperatures ranging between 33-45 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter days tend to be cloudy, and nights are quite chilly. You can also expect a fair amount of rain during the winter months.
Outdoor Recreation
One of the biggest draws to Bellingham is the copious amounts of outdoor activities. With so many natural reserves and green spaces in the region, you will never run out of things to do outdoors. Families enjoy camping at Larrabee State Park and then hitting the slopes at the nearby Mt. Baker, home to the region’s best slopes for snowboarding and skiing. Many people also enjoy hiking, jogging, or walking their dogs along the many trails in the area. If you prefer the beach, you can’t miss the beautiful San Juan Islands, which feature plenty of sights to see and shops to visit. You might even take part in a whale-watching expedition, where local experts can help you catch a glimpse of the many whales in the region.
Employment Opportunities
The top industries in Bellingham are medical services and higher education, with St. Josephy Hospital, Lummi Nation, Western Washington University, Bellingham Public Schools, and Whatcom County being the top employers. Bellingham is also an excellent location for remote workers looking to live in an exciting city without breaking the bank.
Schools in Bellingham
Bellingham is a highly educated city with a number of excellent schools at all levels. Lowell Elementary School, Birchwood Elementary School, and Alderwood Elementary are just a few of the high-performing elementary schools in the area. There are also great high schools like Bellingham High School, Options High School, and Sehome High School. In addition, the city is home to higher education institutions, including Northwestern Indian College, Whatcom Community College, Western Washington University, and Bellingham Technical College.
Best Neighborhoods in Bellingham
Bellingham is a vibrant city offering everything from family-friendly neighborhoods to a bustling downtown. There is a wide range of neighborhoods to choose from, and here are some of the best in the area:
Alabama Hill: Alabama Hill is a vibrant community nestled atop a hill and providing stunning views of Bellingham Bay. This charming neighborhood features historic single-family homes and a plethora of recreational opportunities and family fun.
Barkley Village: Barkley Village is a beautiful neighborhood featuring modern condos, apartments, lofts, and tech-focused developments. There are also stunning homes with incredible bay views. Here, you will find everything from fine dining to boutique shops, art galleries, and a movie theater.
Chuckanut: The Chuckanut community is one of the most beautiful places in Bellingham, featuring winding roads and amazing views of Chuckanut Bay and the surrounding San Juan Islands. There are a number of outdoor trails and parks in the area, making it an ideal neighborhood for those who prefer spending time outdoors.
Edgemoor: This charming residential neighborhood is surrounded by lush foliage and stunning views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands. It features exquisite homes, excellent schools, and a quaint and peaceful setting for residents.
Ready to Move to Bellingham? Allied Van Lines Can Help
This beautiful coastal city in the Pacific Northwest boasts incredible outdoor recreation, stunning views, and plenty of charm. If you are ready to move to Bellingham, let the professionals at Allied Van Lines assist you with your relocation. As a leader in the moving industry for more than 85 years, our knowledgeable and highly experienced specialists can guide you through the moving process. We offer a comprehensive list of moving services, and our expertly trained staff can help you plan and execute a seamless move. Allied offers a comprehensive list of moving services to fit any budget, so call today or start by getting a free quote using our convenient Instaquote tool.