Let the numbers do the talking.
Bellingham, WA vs Richland, WA
Bellingham, WA vs Richland, WA: What the data shows
Bellingham, WA is in Bellingham, WA while Richland, WA is in Richland, WA — both in the same state. On home prices, Richland, WA is the more affordable option at $398,400 median — $132,800 less than Bellingham, WA's $531,200. WYLT rates Bellingham, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Richland, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Richland, WA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Bellingham, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Richland, WA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Bellingham, WA has High flood risk and Richland, WA has Low flood risk.
Bellingham, WA is the more walkable neighborhood. Bellingham, WA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Richland, WA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Bellingham, WA has the higher school rating — Bellingham, WA rates 7.2/10 and Richland, WA rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Bellingham, WA | Richland, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $531K | $398K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $62K | $97K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 26/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 150 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.2/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.9/10 |
| Best for | College studentsYoung professionalsNature lovers | FamiliesRemote workersBudget‑conscious buyers |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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