Bellingham, WA similar to Burlington, VT or Boulder, CO?

[mizzile]

I have lived in both Bham and Burlington. Bham is not at all like Burlington IMO; I much prefer Burlington. Bellingham seems really aimless and dead, aside from the total hippies and the complete yuppies. Bellingham is extremely overpriced and overrated from a real estate point of view. Burlington is much more established and stable.

I didn't really see a lot of vibrance in Bellingham. Everything, even community events, seems run on a shoestring by people who don't really care one way or another. Personally I don't think there is much to recommend about Bellingham unless the paddling folks love it, and I'm not a paddler so I can't say much about that. I was very happy to see that town in my rearview mirror - and when deciding where to go from there, I considered Burlington, as a matter of fact. I'd be happy to go back there; it's a good town.

[moonyenoom]

Bellingham Washigton is awesome. It's very like Burlington and Boulder (I've lived in both). Be prepared for a more moderate climate throughout the year, way more clouds, but generally an equally awesome atmosphere. I love it here, the college is wonderful and really provides a great vibe. With the recent economic downturn Bellingham has has some issues (downtown not being as lively as it once was) but still has a great variety of local businesses, live music, and awesome things going on. It's really not that expensive to live here - there are no taxes on food so I save money - and minimum wage is super high ($9ish) which also rocks. Also, in Washington it doesn't rain like it does elsewhere - I would call it drizzle and it rarely downpours. I bike year round regardless - it also rarely snows but you can get your skiing fix in less than 45 minutes away. Also Canada is our backyard, so thats a fun thing. Public transit doesn't have anything on Boulders public transit, but given that its a smaller town it does very well. You can bike (and feel safe about it) anywhere in town in 45 minutes or less. I would seriously recommend it - make sure to check out the Fairhaven district. Its the older part of town. Also, be warned of the trains. That was something I forgot about - it doesn't bother me, but it bothers some people. Love it here - can't recommend it enough.

[the mirror]

great post

[waviking24]

Bham is awesome for 4-5 months out of the year