Let the numbers do the talking.
Bellingham, WA vs Vancouver, WA
Bellingham, WA vs Vancouver, WA: What the data shows
Bellingham, WA is in Bellingham, WA while Vancouver, WA is in Vancouver, WA — both in the same state. On home prices, Vancouver, WA is the more affordable option at $413,300 median — $117,900 less than Bellingham, WA's $531,200. WYLT rates Bellingham, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Vancouver, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Bellingham, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Vancouver, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Bellingham, WA has High flood risk and Vancouver, WA has Low flood risk.
Bellingham, WA is the more walkable neighborhood. Bellingham, WA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Vancouver, WA's 31/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Bellingham, WA has the higher school rating — Bellingham, WA rates 7.2/10 and Vancouver, WA rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Bellingham, WA | Vancouver, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $531K | $413K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $62K | $62K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 ✓ More walkable | 31/100 |
| Transit Score | 26/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 | 57/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 150 min | 45 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 | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.2/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.9/10 |
| Best for | College studentsYoung professionalsNature lovers | Families seeking good schools on a budgetPeople willing to commute to Seattle by carOutdoor lovers who enjoy riverfront and park access |
Bottom line
If you prioritize stunning natural scenery and a solid school system but can afford the high cost of living and commute time, Bellingham might be the better choice. However, if you're a budget-conscious family seeking good schools and are willing to drive to Seattle, Vancouver's lower costs and reasonable commute might make it a better fit. Overall, these two neighborhoods serve specific needs, and one is not necessarily better than the other.
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