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Whatcom Falls, Bellingham,WA

Neighborhood Data
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If you're considering a move to Bellingham, WA, the Whatcom Falls neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty and community charm. One of the biggest attractions here is the stunning Whatcom Falls Park, a sprawling green space perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and, of course, the picturesque waterfalls that give the neighborhood its name. It's a fantastic spot for families, joggers, and anyone who enjoys a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature without leaving the city limits.

Whatcom Falls isn’t just about nature, though. The neighborhood boasts a friendly, close-knit community with plenty of local amenities that make everyday life convenient and enjoyable. You’ll find nearby grocery stores, cozy cafes, and small shops that add to the neighborhood's welcoming vibe. For those who appreciate a slower pace but want access to urban conveniences, Whatcom Falls is ideal. It's only about a 10 to 15-minute drive northwest to Downtown Bellingham, making it easy to enjoy the city’s vibrant dining scene, cultural events, and shopping districts without sacrificing the tranquility of suburban living.

Families and outdoor lovers alike will appreciate the excellent schools and recreational facilities in Whatcom Falls. Beyond Whatcom Falls Park, residents can take advantage of nearby sports fields and community centers that host a variety of activities year-round. Whether you're into hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the fresh Pacific Northwest air, this neighborhood provides a perfect balance. If you’re relocating to Bellingham and want a neighborhood that marries natural beauty with convenience and community spirit, Whatcom Falls is definitely worth checking out.

Whatcom Falls Demographics

Population 1,744
Density (People/sqml.) 827
Median Age 36.6
Married Couples
52%
52% of the population of Whatcom Falls aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
28%
28% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Whatcom Falls, 28% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 28% 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.

Age Breakdown

Whatcom Falls neighborhood age breakdown chart

Whatcom Falls 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 1,744 residents, Whatcom Falls 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.

With a lower than average population density of 827 people per square mile, Whatcom Falls offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Bellingham neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 37, 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.

Crime in Whatcom Falls

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Whatcom Falls neighborhood crime breakdown chart

Whatcom Falls Crime Map

The Whatcom Falls crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

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Home Price $484,817
Median Rent $1,400
People/Household 2.7

Home Price Breakdown

Whatcom Falls neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 32% Own 68%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 47% After 2010 53%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year Home Prices YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Whatcom Falls, home prices come in around $484,817, 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 Whatcom Falls 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 $1,400, 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.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Brewed Awakening
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Saigon Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Regal Barkley Village 16 IMAX & RPX
Cinema
min.
min.
20th Century Bowling
Bowling Alley
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Lafeens Family Pride Donuts and Ice Cream
Fast Food
min.
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Papa Murphy's
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Whole Foods Market
Grocery Store
min.
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Fred Meyer
Grocery Store
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Parks

Lakeway Community Garden
Park
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Whatcom Falls Mini Mart
Convenience Store
min.
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Jack's Bicycle Center
Bicycle
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Lakeway Dr at Kenoyer Dr
Bus Stop
min.
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Lakeway Dr at Kenoyer Dr
Bus Stop
min.
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Hoagland Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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Super Track Urgent Care
Clinic
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Health Care

Sunrise Dental
Dentist
min.
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Crowns by Design
Dentist
min.
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Safety

Fire Station #4
Fire Station
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Fire Station #21 (Geneva)
Fire Station
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Top Rated Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Geneva Elementary School
1401 Geneva St, Bellingham, WA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Whatcom Co Detention Ctr
311 Grand Ave 6Th Fl, Bellingham, WA
High School 8 - 12 School Score
Options High School
2020 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, WA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Home Port Learning Center
707 Astor St, Bellingham, WA
High School 7 - 12 School Score
Home Port Learning Center
707 Astor St, Bellingham, WA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Visions (Seamar Youth Center)
1603 E Illinois St, Bellingham, WA
High School 6 - 12 School Score
Lynden Christian School Evergreen Campus
567 E Kellogg Rd, Bellingham, WA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Whatcom Falls combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Whatcom Falls can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.