Birchwood, Bellingham,WA

If you’re considering a move to Bellingham, WA, the Birchwood neighborhood in the southeastern part of the city offers a wonderful blend of community charm and convenient amenities. Known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and friendly atmosphere, Birchwood is a favorite among families and professionals alike. One of the standout features of this neighborhood is its proximity to beautiful parks like Birchwood Park, where residents enjoy walking trails, playgrounds, and open green spaces perfect for weekend picnics or morning jogs. The neighborhood also boasts easy access to local schools, making it a practical choice for those with children.

Living in Birchwood means you’re never far from the vibrant heart of Bellingham. Downtown is just a short drive northwest, typically around 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic, which makes commuting or enjoying the city’s cultural events and eateries hassle-free. Birchwood’s location allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful, residential setting with quick access to downtown’s bustling shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Plus, for those who love the outdoors, the nearby Chuckanut Mountains and Lake Whatcom are perfect for hiking, fishing, or simply soaking in nature’s beauty.

The community spirit in Birchwood truly makes it stand out. There are often neighborhood events and gatherings that bring residents together, fostering a welcoming environment for newcomers. In addition, the area offers convenient shopping options and local businesses that cater to everyday needs without the hustle and bustle of larger commercial centers. Whether you’re looking for a cozy home, a safe environment for kids, or a place with easy access to Bellingham’s natural and urban attractions, Birchwood is a neighborhood well worth exploring for your next chapter.

18% of the Birchwood population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 18% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Birchwood demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 4,421 residents, Birchwood is notably smaller than many other Bellingham neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Birchwood has a population density of 3,179, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Bellingham neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 45, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

The Birchwood crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Birchwood, home prices come in around $460,788, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Birchwood can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

The median rent is around $1,410, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Birchwood. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Birchwood can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.