Fairhaven, Bellingham,WA

Moving to Bellingham, WA? The Fairhaven neighborhood is a charming place you’ll want to explore. Nestled in the south-west part of the city, Fairhaven is known for its unique blend of historic character and modern amenities. This area boasts cobblestone streets, beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, and a vibrant arts scene that gives it a distinct personality. Whether you enjoy strolling through quaint shops, dining at cozy waterfront restaurants, or catching a live show at one of the local theaters, Fairhaven offers a welcoming community atmosphere that’s perfect for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

One of Fairhaven’s biggest draws is its proximity to Bellingham Bay, where residents can enjoy scenic views, waterfront parks, and access to outdoor activities like kayaking and birdwatching. The Fairhaven Village Green is a popular spot for community events, farmers markets, and summer concerts — making it a social hub for neighbors to gather and connect. Art lovers will appreciate the many galleries and artisan shops that line the streets, showcasing local talent. Plus, the neighborhood is home to several excellent cafes and eateries, including favorites like the Black Cat and Avenue Bread, which offer a taste of the local flavor. The historic Fairhaven Train Depot also adds a nostalgic touch, reminding visitors of the area’s rich past.

Conveniently, Fairhaven is just a short 10-minute drive from downtown Bellingham, making it easy to enjoy the bigger city’s amenities while living in a more relaxed, picturesque setting. The neighborhood’s walkability and access to public transit add to its appeal for newcomers looking to settle in without relying heavily on a car. Schools, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities are all within easy reach, ensuring practical needs are well met. Overall, Fairhaven combines the best of coastal living with community charm, making it a fantastic choice for anyone relocating to Bellingham.

12% of the Fairhaven 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 12% 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.

Fairhaven 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 247 residents, Fairhaven 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.

Fairhaven has a population density of 3,070, 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.

With an average age of 40, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Fairhaven 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 Fairhaven, home prices come in around $614,300, 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 Fairhaven 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.

With an average rent price of $1,677, rental rates in Fairhaven are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Fairhaven. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Fairhaven offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.