Choosing Bellingham: The Stats on Who's Moving Here & Why

If you’ve noticed a few more new faces around Bellingham lately, you’re not imagining it. Our city is getting popular. Like, Redfin-noticed-and-made-a-chart-about-it popular.

According to Redfin’s latest migration data (from February to April 2025), Bellingham is attracting serious attention from people leaving larger metros, and we can’t blame them. The air is cleaner, the trails are better, the coffee is strong, and the pace of life is just right. 

So where exactly are these new Bellinghamsters coming from? Let’s break it down!

Top 10 Cities People Are Moving to Bellingham From (Feb–Apr 2025)

Rank, Metro Area, Net Inflow (# of People) 

1. Seattle, WA, 3,122 

2. Los Angeles, CA, 177 

3. Spokane, WA, 105 

4. San Francisco, CA, 102

5. Portland, OR, 93

6. San Diego, CA, 52

7. Washington, DC, 41

8. Houston, TX, 41

9. Chicago, IL, 26

10. Denver, CO, 16

Seattle Tops the List (Again)

Coming in at a whopping 3,122 net inflow, Seattle is leading the Bellingham migration by a landslide. And it makes perfect sense. In fact, we wrote a whole blog on it! For former Seattleites, Bellingham offers a similar PNW vibe. Think: climate, evergreen trees, great restaurants, and access to both saltwater and snow... but without the gridlock, sky-high rent, or fight for parking. 

We’ve heard it from our clients a thousand times: “We just wanted a slower pace and a better quality of life… and Bellingham felt right.” And with remote work here to stay, more people are realizing they can live where they want to, not just where the job is.

If you’re making the leap from Seattle to Bellingham, first of all: welcome! Second of all: we can’t wait to show you around. From the Farmer’s Market to catching a sunset at Marine Park, there’s a reason we love calling this place home, and we think you will too.

Californians, We See You Too

Redfin shows 177 people from Los Angeles and 102 from San Francisco made the move to Bellingham this spring. Why are Californians falling for our little corner of the Pacific Northwest?

Well, for starters, housing prices. While Bellingham is no longer the “hidden gem” it once was, it’s still far more affordable than the California coast. Buyers who’ve sold homes in L.A. or the Bay Area often find they can get more home (and more nature) for their money here, plus a true sense of community.

And let’s not forget the weather. Yes, we get our share of rain. But when summer hits, it’s 75°, breezy, perfect for beach days or mountain hikes. We’d call that a win.

Regional Neighbors Are Coming Too

The next few on Redfin’s list are Spokane (105 people) and Portland (93 people), and they’re trading dry summers or city bustle for salt air and small-town charm.

To our friends from Spokane: welcome to the West side. Here, we hike with a latte in hand and chase sunsets over the San Juans. To the Portland crowd: Bellingham’s got your bike lanes, microbrews, and indie bookstores ready and waiting. 

Long-Distance Moves

San Diego (52 people) and Houston (41 people) aren’t exactly a short U-Haul away. And yet, they’re part of this migration wave. Why? We suspect it’s the combination of temperate climate, access to nature, and community-oriented living.

Washington, D.C. (41), Chicago (26), and Denver (16) round out the top ten, showing just how far Bellingham’s reputation has traveled. People from all over the U.S. are discovering that our small-but-mighty city is a sweet spot between accessibility and adventure.

What This Means for the Bellingham Housing Market

As Bellingham’s popularity grows, so does competition for homes. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious, here’s what you should know:

1. New Listings Are Coming

We’re seeing more homes hit the market compared to last year, but demand remains strong, especially from buyers relocating from bigger cities with bigger budgets.

If you're thinking about selling your Bellingham home, now is an excellent time to capitalize on the wave of interest. With out-of-town buyers eager to find the right place, sellers are often seeing multiple offers and strong pricing.

2. Prices Are Begining to Stabilize 

Yes, home values in Bellingham have climbed over the past few years, but we’re starting to see more balance in the market. That said, homes that are well-priced and well-presented still move fast, especially in desirable areas like Fairhaven, South Hill, or anywhere with a water view (honestly, who can blame them?).

3. Buyers Need to Be Prepared

If you’re moving to Bellingham from out of town, don’t assume it’s sleepy. Homes here often go pending within days, and many receive multiple offers. A good local agent (hello!) can help you navigate neighborhoods, local pricing trends, and those oh-so-important lifestyle factors, like proximity to the best off-leash dog parks or who has the best IPA on tap.

Thinking About Making the Move?

Whether you’re coming from Seattle or San Diego, Spokane or San Francisco, one thing’s for sure: you’re not alone. More and more people are discovering what locals have always known, Bellingham is one of the best places to live in the PNW.

It’s a place where the mountains meet the bay, where outdoor adventure is just part of the daily routine, and where neighbors still say hi on the trail.

If you’re relocating, downsizing, upgrading, or just dreaming about a change of pace, our team is here to help you find the right fit, no pressure, just local insight and real talk. (Have we mentioned we were voted Bellingham’s Best Real Estate Team of 2025?)

Popular Neighborhoods for Newcomers

If you’re new to Bellingham or planning a visit, here are a few areas that tend to catch the eye of out-of-town buyers:

Fairhaven – Historic charm, walkability, bay views, and great eats.

Columbia – Classic craftsman homes, tree-lined streets, and that neighborhood feel.

Sudden Valley – Affordable homes, tons of greenery, and community amenities like golf, trails, and Lake Whatcom access.

Sehome – Close to Western Washington University and downtown, with a youthful, vibrant vibe.

Edgemoor – For those wanting a quieter, high-end neighborhood with water views and privacy.

Final Thoughts from the Team 

At the end of the day, people move for all kinds of reasons: jobs, lifestyle, family, adventure. But what we’re seeing right now is a genuine draw to the lifestyle Bellingham offers: community, creativity, nature, and a slower pace of life.

We’re proud to live and work here, and if you’re thinking about joining us, we’d be honored to help you make the move.

If you’re selling, we’ll make sure your home stands out to this new wave of buyers.

If you’re buying, we’ll help you navigate your options, neighborhood by neighborhood, so you feel confident and excited—not overwhelmed.

Because at the end of the day, we’re not just selling homes, we’re helping people find their place in this community we love.

Ready to Start Your Bellingham Adventure?

Let’s chat! Whether you’re months out or ready to start house hunting now, we’re happy to answer questions, share insights, and help you make your next move the right one.