Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Bellingam’s vibrant metro area offers a diverse rental landscape that caters to students, professionals, and families alike. Downtown and the historic Fairhaven district provide walkable apartments close to boutiques, dining, and the bustling waterfront, while neighborhoods such as Sehome and Lake Whatcom blend suburban charm with easy access to outdoor recreation. The presence of Western Washington University adds a dynamic, youthful energy, making the city an attractive hub for both short‑term and long‑term renters.
Apartment options span from cozy studios averaging in the $1400s to spacious four‑plus bedroom units reaching the $2800–$3200 range, with two‑bedroom units commonly found in the $1900–$2200 bracket. House rentals tend to be modestly higher, with studios around $1300, one‑bedroom homes at approximately $1700, and larger families often seeking three‑ and four‑plus bedroom homes priced between $2800 and $3800. These price tiers reflect the balance of affordability and quality that Bellingham’s rental market is known for.
Beyond price, renters appreciate the city’s blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. Proximity to Lake Whatcom, Mount Baker, and a network of bike trails supports an active lifestyle, while easy commuter routes to Seattle and the wider Puget Sound region provide broader employment opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a modern apartment near campus or a family‑friendly house in a leafy suburb, Bellingham’s rental market delivers a welcoming mix of options suited to a wide range of needs.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $1,387 | $1,395 | $999 - $1,675 | $1,350 - $1,435 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $1,569 | $1,540 | $775 - $2,775 | $1,395 - $1,775 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $1,832 | $1,825 | $725 - $2,825 | $1,699 - $2,015 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $2,366 | $2,450 | $900 - $3,700 | $2,150 - $2,650 |
| Apartment | 4+ Bedroom | $3,030 | $3,280 | $875 - $5,400 | $2,980 - $3,428 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $1,710 | $1,700 | $875 - $2,350 | $1,450 - $1,875 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $2,323 | $2,200 | $1,250 - $3,500 | $1,850 - $2,850 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $2,945 | $2,800 | $970 - $5,280 | $2,500 - $3,100 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $3,678 | $3,600 | $295 - $5,500 | $3,200 - $4,000 |
In the current period, the average rent in Bellingham, WA was $1,384 for Studio, $1,585 for 1 Bedroom, $1,914 for 2 Bedroom, $2,745 for 3 Bedroom, and $3,201 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.