Why Homes in Bellingham Are So Expensive: Exploring the Factors

Posted by Aldo LeVain on Friday, March 3, 2023 at 9:22:08 AM By Aldo LeVain / March 3, 2023 Comment

Bellingham, a city located in the Northwest corner of Washington State, has been experiencing a surge in home prices in recent years. Many people have been wondering why this is the case, and there are a few key reasons to consider.

The first reason for high home prices in Bellingham is the significant lag in construction. Although COVID-19 has certainly played a role in delaying construction projects, Bellingham has strict building regulations that can cause significant delays even in normal times. Obtaining permits can take months, making it challenging for builders to get started on new projects. As a result, there is a significant shortage of new construction homes in the area, and demand has driven up prices.

The second reason for high home prices in Bellingham is location. Situated between two major metropolitan areas, Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., Bellingham is a desirable location for many people. The Northwest offers a unique lifestyle with all four seasons and abundant outdoor recreational activities like skiing, biking, hiking, and water sports. The area is also home to many breweries, making it an attractive destination for beer lovers. The natural beauty and the many amenities of the area make it a desirable place to live, which has driven up demand for homes.

The third reason for high home prices in Bellingham is the significant income gap. Over the last several years, home prices have gone up by 80%, while income has only gone up by 20%. This disparity has made it challenging for many people to afford homes in the area. However, the recent influx of tech companies in the Seattle area has led to higher salaries, which has allowed many people to purchase homes in Bellingham. Additionally, people who are able to work from home or commute to Seattle have been moving to the area, further driving up demand.

In conclusion, Bellingham's high home prices can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the significant lag in construction, desirable location, and significant income gap. While the area's natural beauty and amenities make it a desirable place to live, the high cost of living can make it challenging for many people to afford homes. As the area continues to grow and change, it will be interesting to see how these factors continue to impact the local housing market.