Bellingham Home Prices Rise Again as Inventory Falls

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Bellingham and Whatcom County saw increases in median home sale prices in December 2025, continuing a trend of rising prices in the region. The median sale price in Whatcom County reached $600,000, a 1.5% increase from November and 2% higher than the same month the previous year. In Bellingham, the median sale price hit $685,000, up 1% from November and 1.5% year-over-year. Brokers say 2025 was a transitional year for the local real estate market, and expect to see moderate increases in buyer and seller activity in 2026 if mortgage rates continue to decline.

Why it matters

The continued rise in home prices in Bellingham and Whatcom County reflects the broader trend of increasing home costs across Washington state, which is now the 5th most expensive state for home purchases nationwide. This pricing pressure makes it increasingly difficult for first-time and low-income buyers to afford homes in the region, raising concerns about housing affordability and access.

The details

According to local broker Jason Lee, Whatcom County's median home sale price reached a high of $682,000 in July 2024, the highest price from 2012-2026. In December 2025, the county's median sale price was $600,000, up 1.5% from November and 2% from the same month the prior year. In Bellingham, the median sale price was $685,000 in December, a 1% increase from November and 1.5% higher than December 2024. Lee noted that new listings and overall inventory hit their lowest levels of 2025 in December, consistent with seasonal patterns.

• Whatcom County's median home sale price reached a high of $682,000 in July 2024.
• In December 2025, Whatcom County's median sale price was $600,000.
• In December 2025, Bellingham's median sale price was $685,000.

What they’re saying