Anyone in Bellingham?

CoffeeGirlJ

Does anyone live in or around Bellingham? DH has a job interview there next week and they are flying us all out to check it out. We will have about a day and a half of free time to explore. What do you reccommend we do? What are the best family friendly neighborhoods/good school districts? Any other information would be appreciated! I've never visited there before and the only information I have is the research I have done online.

We are currently living in the Tri-Cities area (been here about 3 years) but are from Portland, OR. From what I see Bellingham reminds me a lot of a smaller Portland. I am thinking the cost of living would be higher than where we currently are? Also the prices of housing,etc. seem to be higher although I notice a lot of short sales when I do a real estate search.

Thanks so much!

chibipoe

I grew up there. If you're going to be up there for a few days there is lots to explore. Definitely hit Fairhaven and Downtown. Get lunch and the Colophon in Fairhaven and then spend the day exploring the shops (there are two really great toy stores).

As for good neighborhoods, avoid anything around Texas St. but otherwise I can't think of any really terrible neighborhoods. I grew up just south of town so I'm most familiar with the South End. That's where you'll find Western Wa U., Fairhaven, Sehome HS. It's a nice area. 

Since it's a college town you'll find there is a lot of competition for jobs from recent graduates. Cost of living is a little higher than the Tri Cities from what I hear. 

I moved away almost 10 years ago so my information may be a little outdated (although I still go up there ever couple of weeks).

CoffeeGirlJ

Thanks for the advise!

braveangel2

How did the interview go? I love Bellingham and grew up there. I'm an hour south now, but we visit often and I have family up there. I can give you more of the scoop on my favorite places if you want, but as far as where to live, I'm not quite up-to-date on that. I really like Humboldt area and the lettered streets. They have a Trader Joes nearby. This is pretty good too...

https://youtu.be/HMiBZ6s4SjY

Let's hear it for B'ham

megmacp

Sorry this is a little late probably... I work in Bellingham but live in Lynden. It's in the north part of the county. If you want a family friendly and safe area, Lynden is it. It is a Christian reformed town that still has small town values. It's a place where you want to get to know your neighbors. There is a lot of new homes being built. Also, Lynden city park is GREAT.

 

I hope you get a chance to check it out. GL with YH's interview!