Bellingham
Bellingham, Washington scores 51.0/100 (C+ grade), ranking #15 of 20 cities in Washington. Median income: $54,867. Crime rate: 329.6/100K.
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Bellingham, Washington Overview
Bellingham faces challenges across several categories, earning a C+ grade (51.0/100) and ranking #15 of 20 cities in Washington. Even so, the city scores 73/100 in Environment — a relative bright spot compared to its Fiscal Health score of 30/100.
Income & Employment in Bellingham
Bellingham’s median income of $54,867 is 39% below the state median, but positive population growth of 0.9% signals that affordability or other factors are still attracting residents. The local unemployment rate is 4.3%.
Safety in Bellingham
Bellingham reports 329.6 violent crimes per 100,000, roughly in line with the statewide rate of 372 per 100,000. The property crime rate is 4220.4 per 100,000.
Cost of Living in Bellingham
Bellingham has a cost of living index of 104.1 (where 100 equals the national average), slightly above the national benchmark. The median home value is $577,400. Median monthly rent is $1,478. Renters allocate 32.3% of income to rent — above the 30% affordability threshold. The price-to-income ratio of 10.5x suggests home buyers face a stretched market.
Health & Wellness in Bellingham
Bellingham’s adult obesity rate of 26% is below the national average, contributing to stronger health outcomes. The diabetes prevalence rate is 7.7%. Residents report an average of 19.7 poor mental health days per month, above the typical range. Washington ranks #7 nationally for overall health.
Education & Schools in Bellingham
Bellingham has a high school graduation rate of 77.6%. The student-teacher ratio is 16.8:1. Local districts invest $17,953 per student, well above the national median. The city has 27 public schools serving 12,257 students. School data is sourced from the NCES Common Core of Data and EDFacts.
Climate & Commute in Bellingham
Bellingham enjoys a moderate climate with an annual average of 58.8°F. Summers average 70.4°F. Winters average 43°F. Annual precipitation is 21 inches. The average commute of 16.3 minutes is notably short.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall score for Bellingham, Washington?
Bellingham has an overall score of 51.0 out of 100, earning a C+ grade and ranking #15 among 20 cities in Washington.
What is the median income in Bellingham?
The median household income in Bellingham is $54,867, based on Census ACS data.
Is Bellingham safe?
Bellingham has a violent crime rate of 329.6 per 100,000 residents.
What is the cost of living in Bellingham?
Bellingham has a cost of living index of 104.1 (100 = national average). It is more expensive than the national average.
How are the public schools in Bellingham?
Bellingham has 27 public schools with a 77.6% graduation rate. The student-teacher ratio is 16.8:1.