Bellingham, WA
Population 92,367 · Washington
About Bellingham, WA
Bellingham is a mid-sized city in Washington with a population of 92,367 residents. The median household income is $65,821 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Bellingham is 34.5 years.
Housing in Bellingham has a median home value of $577,400 and median monthly rent of $1,478. Of the 43,468 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 18,550 owner-occupied and 22,510 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Bellingham is 5.6% and the poverty rate is 18.3%. 46.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 18.7 minutes.
How Bellingham Ranks in Washington
Cost of Living in Bellingham, WA
Compared to national averages, Bellingham has a median household income of $65,821 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $577,400, which is 136% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,478 is 27% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Bellingham's income is 28% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 25% above the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Bellingham, WA?
Bellingham offers a well-educated community where 46.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 18.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,821) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $577,400. However, as a mid-sized city, Bellingham provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Bellingham has a population of 92,367 with a median age of 34.5 years. Compare Bellingham with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Bellingham
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kirkland | 91,614 | $143,533 | $1,022,500 | Compare |
| Yakima | 96,810 | $59,228 | $273,400 | Compare |
| Federal Way | 99,232 | $82,144 | $499,600 | Compare |
| Auburn | 85,455 | $95,367 | $510,400 | Compare |
| Kennewick | 84,389 | $72,867 | $343,600 | Compare |
| Renton | 105,279 | $96,626 | $631,400 | Compare |
| Spokane Valley | 105,460 | $70,722 | $344,300 | Compare |
| Pasco | 78,446 | $81,130 | $344,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Washington
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Bellingham
What is the population of Bellingham, WA?
The population of Bellingham, WA is 92,367 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Bellingham?
The median household income in Bellingham, WA is $65,821 per year.
What is the median home value in Bellingham?
The median home value in Bellingham, WA is $577,400.
What is the average rent in Bellingham?
The median monthly rent in Bellingham, WA is $1,478.
What is the unemployment rate in Bellingham?
The unemployment rate in Bellingham, WA is 5.6%.