Why Live in South Bellingham
South Bellingham, located 5 miles from downtown, is characterized by its mix of newly constructed homes and condos on the northern edge and expansive trail networks leading to the Chuckanut Mountains on the southern side. The neighborhood features a low crime risk, safer than the national average, and is home to highly rated schools such as Fairhaven Middle and Sehome High. The area’s natural landscape is a significant draw, with the 136-acre Fairhaven Park offering grassy fields, redwood forests, and waterfalls, along with amenities like pickleball courts, playgrounds, and basketball courts. The Interurban Trail, a popular walkway, winds through the neighborhood, providing scenic routes for hikers. South Bellingham’s community spirit is fostered by the volunteer-led Chuckanut Center, which offers classes in gardening, beekeeping, and cheesemaking, and hosts social events like the monthly Weed and Feed. While the neighborhood lacks immediate shopping and dining options, residents can travel 2 miles to Fairhaven Village for various dining experiences, including Skylark’s Hidden Cafe and Mambo Italiano Cafe. Homes in South Bellingham range from New Traditional-style houses with white gable trim and large porches to Minimal Traditional-style homes on larger wooded lots. The neighborhood’s sprawling layout and lack of sidewalks mean that most residents rely on cars for errands and commuting. The Whatcom Transportation Authority’s Route 105 bus stop provides access to Fairhaven and downtown Bellingham. Key amenities like Peace Health Saint Joseph Medical Center and Bellingham International Airport are 7 miles and 10 miles away, respectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is South Bellingham a good place to live?
South Bellingham is a good place to live. South Bellingham is considered very car-dependent and somewhat bikeable with minimal transit options. South Bellingham has 5 parks for recreational activities. It is sparse in population with 2.0 people per acre and a median age of 56. The average household income is $82,621 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 45.3% of residents. A majority of residents in South Bellingham are renters, with 52.5% of residents renting and 47.5% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving South Bellingham can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
South Bellingham neighborhood guide.
Is South Bellingham, WA a safe neighborhood?
South Bellingham, WA is safer than the average neighborhood in the United States. It received a crime score of 3 out of 10.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in South Bellingham?
The median home price in South Bellingham is $687,000. If you put a 20% down payment of $137,400 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.24%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $3,380 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $145K a year to afford the median home price in South Bellingham. The average household income in South Bellingham is $83K.
What are the best public schools in South Bellingham?
The best public schools that serve South Bellingham are:
What are the best private schools in South Bellingham?
The best private schools that serve South Bellingham are:
What are the most popular zip codes in South Bellingham, Bellingham, WA?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near South Bellingham, Bellingham, WA?
Are home prices dropping in South Bellingham?
Yes, home prices in South Bellingham are down 10% in the last 12 months.
Home Trends in South Bellingham, WA
On average, homes in South Bellingham, Bellingham sell after 43 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in South Bellingham, Bellingham over the last 12 months is $647,500, down 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$647,500
Median Single Family Sale Price
$867,000
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$595,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$473
Number of Homes for Sale
4
Last 12 months Home Sales
22
Median List Price
$687,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
3%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-7%
