Let the numbers do the talking.
Bellingham, WA vs Seattle, WA
Bellingham, WA vs Seattle, WA: What the data shows
Bellingham, WA is in Bellingham, WA while Seattle, WA is in Seattle, WA — both in the same state. WYLT rates Bellingham, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Seattle, WA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Bellingham, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Seattle, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Bellingham, WA has High flood risk and Seattle, WA has Low flood risk.
Bellingham, WA is the more walkable neighborhood. Bellingham, WA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Seattle, WA's 3/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Seattle, WA has the higher school rating — Bellingham, WA rates 7.2/10 and Seattle, WA rates 8.3/10.
| Category | Bellingham, WA | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $531K | N/A |
| Median Rent | $1K | N/A |
| Median Income | $62K | N/A |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 ✓ More walkable | 3/100 |
| Transit Score | 26/100 ✓ Better transit | 14/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 | 48/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 150 min | 13 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.2/10 | 8.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | College studentsYoung professionalsNature lovers | Families looking for good schoolsCommuters to downtown SeattlePeople who own a car and need a short drive |
Bottom line
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