A European village in the heart of northwest Washington
Driving down Front Street in Lynden feels like being transported to a small village in the Dutch countryside without leaving the United States. This city of about 16,000 people is in northwest Washington, about 100 miles north of Seattle, 15 miles north of Bellingham and 5 miles south of the Canada border. "It's a small-town community, but at the same time, it has restaurants and schools," says Jim Skerjanc, a broker with HomeSmart One Realty who grew up in Lynden. "It's in the middle of farmland and has incredible views of the Canadian mountains and Mt. Baker."
Incorporated in 1891, Lynden had an influx of Dutch settlers in the early 20th century. That heritage is evident today through the architecture on Front Street, local Dutch cuisine and annual events like Holland Days. The city has a long history of agriculture, and several farms around the area still produce berries, dairy and potatoes. Other industries like education and manufacturing have supported the city and have some of the largest employers in Whatcom County, including Lynden School District and Lynden Door Inc. Religion has played a significant role in the city's history, with several congregations of Reformed churches opening as Dutch settlers moved in.
Lynden residents head to Front Street for local Dutch cuisine, annual events, and more.
Lynden Door helps support the city of Lynden by employing many of its residents.
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Lynden offers a century's worth of housing styles
Homes in Lynden range from early 19002 cottages and bungalows to 21st-century contemporary Craftsman houses. Several styles exist in between, mainly midcentury ranch-style homes. The city is primarily suburban, with many lots having 7,000 square feet or more. The median home price is about $610,000, higher than the national median and up by 2% over the past year. Houses in Lynden typically cost less than those in the nearby cities of Bellingham and Everson. According to Skerjanc, Lynden is one of the only communities in Whatcom County with land available for development, so new construction is common. Most new homes are in the eastern and southern parts of the city, in subdivisions like River Walk.
Make lasting memories in a Lynden bungalow surrounded by nature.
21st-century contemporary Craftsman homes are a popular choice in Lynden.
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A taste of Dutch culture at Lynden shops and restaurants
Front Street is the main commercial corridor in Lynden, home to small businesses, including shops and restaurants. The architecture has a Dutch theme, with a giant windmill greeting visitors at the corner of Front and 7th Streets and decorative facades adorning the buildings. Restaurants along the strip include pubs, bistros and bakeries, while stores offer games, home goods and jewelry. More shopping centers on the city's west side include hardware stores, chain restaurants and supermarkets like Safeway and Food Pavilion. Several local farms offer pick-your-own fruit and sell raspberries and strawberries at local roadside stands. More shopping and dining is just south of the city in Bellingham.
Meet some friends for a drink at Rustlers Front Street Grill in Lynden.
Lynden residents head to Safeway for all their grocery needs and more.
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Celebrating heritage at Lynden events
The Farmers Day Parade honors the area's agriculture industry with a mix of cars, tractors, trucks and horses on Front Steet each June. The Northwest Raspberry Festival celebrates Lynden's status as one of the largest producers of raspberries in the country, with farm tours, live music, wine tastings and vendors each July. Dutch culture takes the stage on the first weekend in May at Holland Days, and the city hosts the Northwest Washington Fair every August.
Enjoying the outdoors of northwestern Washington
Lynden has 10 city parks offering a variety of outdoor activities. They range from City Park's tranquil picnic and playground setting to the lively soccer and baseball facilities at Bender Fields. Berthusen Park is a former homestead with hiking trails through old-growth forest, a shooting range, and a remote-control plane field. Mt. Baker is about 50 miles east of Lynden and has several hiking trails, campgrounds and a ski resort.
Lynden residents enjoy playing soccer and baseball at Bender Fields.
Take your family to the fun playground at Lynden City Park in Lynden.
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Public and private school options in Linden
Lynden School District serves approximately 3,500 students and gets a B rating from Niche. The district has three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Lynden High School offers several career and technical education pathways, including agriculture, human services, health sciences and skilled and technical programs. Lynden Christian School is a kindergarten through 12th-grade private school with an enrollment of about 1,300 students. It also gets a B from Niche and has several extracurricular activities, including FFA, music, drama and art.
Lynden Christian School provides excellent education to students.
Lynden High School prepares students for graduation and beyond.
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Getting around northwestern Washington
While the downtown area of Lynden is walkable, most people drive to get around the city. Lynden is about 15 miles from Bellingham, which can be reached via Guide Meridian Road or Hannegan Road. Bellingham is home to the closest hospital—PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. Whatcom Transportation Authority operates a bus route connecting Lynden and Bellingham, with stops on Depot Road and Front Street. The city is also about 5 miles from the Canadian border via Guide Meridian Road, offering a quick commute for residents who work in Canada.
Crime and environmental risks of Lynden
According to the annual report by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, despite a 47% increase in violent crime, overall crime in the city decreased by 10.4%. The city's violent and property crime rates are both well below the national average. Lynden is at risk of flooding from the Nooksack River. Whatcom County's website has detailed flood maps and resources on how to respond to and prepare for floods.
Written By
Matthew Atkins
Photography Contributed By
Jake Chaplin
Video By
Luke Basinger
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Brooks Friedland,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Lynden, WA sell after 64 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Lynden, WA over the last 12 months is $607,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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This charming single-level home is perfectly located between Lynden and Bellingham. You will appreciate the size and layout, situated in a friendly cul-de-sac. Be welcomed into the living and dining room space with 3 bedrooms and an oversized updated bathroom. The light and bright kitchen has white appliances and granite countertops. There is a bonus flex room for storage or a potential pantry.
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Discover the comfort and convenience in this charming, well-maintained single-level home featuring 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. Enjoy a large inviting living room and an open-concept kitchen that seamlessly connects to the dining area - Perfect for entertaining. Step outside to a fully fenced backyard ideal for pets or play, and relax on the beautiful covered front deck year-round.
This charming single-level home is perfectly located between Lynden and Bellingham. You will appreciate the size and layout, situated in a friendly cul-de-sac. Be welcomed into the living and dining room space with 3 bedrooms and an oversized updated bathroom. The light and bright kitchen has white appliances and granite countertops. There is a bonus flex room for storage or a potential pantry.
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ONE MONTH FREE!Discover the essence of luxury living in our brand-new apartment located in the heart of charming downtown Lynden. This sophisticated residence boasts high-end finishes & amp; expansive open-concept layouts. City Gate stands out not only for its exceptional living spaces but also for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The complex incorporates
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