Bellingham, Washington, nestled between the Cascade Mountains and the waters of Bellingham Bay, is a city known for its outdoor recreational opportunities and vibrant arts scene. Bellingham neighborhoods offer a mix of historic charm and modern convenience, with a strong sense of community and a commitment to sustainability. The city is home to Western Washington University, contributing to a lively, youthful atmosphere, and is surrounded by natural beauty that attracts outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're hiking in the nearby mountains or enjoying the local art galleries and cafes, Bellingham offers a unique and fulfilling lifestyle.
The Bellingham neighborhood map is a key resource for residents and visitors alike, helping to explore the diverse communities within the city. Bellingham neighborhoods vary from historic districts with charming homes to more modern developments with easy access to amenities. The map highlights neighborhoods with higher livability scores in green, indicating areas with superior amenities, safety, and overall quality of life. Neighborhoods with lower scores are marked in red, providing guidance for those looking to understand the different dynamics of the city.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Western Washington University | 2,814 | 1.27 | 82 |
| 2 | Sunnyland | 2,920 | 1.18 | 78 |
| 3 | Columbia | 3,073 | 1.86 | 77 |
| 4 | Puget | 5,859 | 4.06 | 76 |
| 5 | York | 2,370 | 0.83 | 75 |
The best Bellingham neighborhoods are identified by their high livability scores, which take into account factors such as access to local amenities, low crime rates, and proximity to nature. These neighborhoods offer residents a balanced lifestyle with access to parks, recreational facilities, and cultural attractions. Whether you're looking for a neighborhood with a vibrant arts scene, close proximity to hiking trails, or a strong sense of community, the best Bellingham neighborhoods provide a high quality of life for all.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Mount Baker | 5,535 | 7.7 | 61 |
| 2 | Edgemoor | 765 | 0.26 | 65 |
| 3 | South | 1,770 | 3.49 | 66 |
| 4 | Fairhaven | 256 | 0.19 | 68 |
| 5 | Samish Hill | 3,666 | 7.96 | 69 |
The worst Bellingham neighborhoods tend to score lower on livability metrics due to challenges such as higher crime rates, fewer amenities, and economic difficulties. These areas may face issues like underperforming schools and limited community resources, making them less desirable places to live. While each neighborhood in Bellingham has its own unique appeal, those classified among the worst Bellingham neighborhoods often struggle with factors that impact the overall quality of life, making it important for potential residents to consider these aspects when choosing a place to live.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Roosevelt | 9,038 | 4.21 | 71 |
| 2 | Puget | 5,859 | 4.06 | 76 |
| 3 | Mount Baker | 5,535 | 7.7 | 61 |
| 4 | Birchwood | 4,869 | 3.63 | 71 |
| 5 | Sehome | 4,459 | 1.22 | 72 |
| 6 | Guide Meridian | 4,301 | 6.34 | 73 |
| 7 | Samish Hill | 3,666 | 7.96 | 69 |
| 8 | South Hill | 3,605 | 0.79 | 73 |
| 9 | Columbia | 3,073 | 1.86 | 77 |
| 10 | Downtown Business District | 3,063 | 1.7 | 72 |
Bellingham is a treasure of the Pacific Northwest. The small college town just a few miles from the Canadian border. The City not just the home of Western Washington University, it is a gem for those who love the outdoors. Shopping and dining are at their best, and there is a store that has the best apples. Bellingham offers several educational opportunities. Several highly ranked public and private school are in the area. The Whatcom Museum and the Children’s Museum are good for outside the class learning. There are several affordable rentals in Bellingham due to the high population of college students. Bellingham, WA has a total of neighborhoods. Columbia is the oldest and has the highest livability score, and the largest neighborhood by population is Roosevelt.
Residents of Columbia find this neighborhood great. Several residential structures in this area are single family. On the southernmost part of the neighborhood, known as the Eldridge Historic District, there are several large historically significant homes. On the northwestern border of the neighborhood is the Squalicum Creek Greenway. The Squalicum Creek Park in the adjacent Birchwood Neighborhood is easily accessible. The neighborhood boasts of a high graduation rate, a stable housing market and high income per capita.
Predominantly a residential neighborhood. Alabama Hill has single family houses which were constructed during the 1960's and 1970's. Several housing units in the neighborhood are mostly contemporary design and have spectacular views of the city and the bay. Falls Park is great for active recreation activities in this neighborhood. Clair Park and Highland Heights Park are neighborhood parks that have leisure activities and facilities that cater for grade school children. Residents enjoy the sunny weather in the parks within the neighborhood. Residents use the Railroad Trail as a multi-use trail. The neighborhood is ideal for middle-class families with children. The area has a lot of amenities that are easily accessible. The real estate sector is stable and the area has a high income per capita.
The Puget Neighborhood is predominantly a large single family neighborhood with multifamily residences and mobile home park. The commercial hub at Lakeway Center and the Civic Field public recreation complex serves the whole city. Along Whatcom Creek at the north end of the neighborhood there is a lot of industrial growth. Toledo Hills and Puget are on the occupy the eastern and south parts of the neighborhood and with single family homes built on average sized lots. These properties are well maintained. Most of the housing units have excellent views of Bellingham Bay or the Canadian Cascade. Over the past years utilities, streets, and residential development have extended south and north of Lakeway. With several local amenities for recreation and fitness most people spend time at the parks. The sunny weather is conducive for outdoor activities. The neighborhood has a high income per capita and the housing market is stable.