December 2025 Housing Market Update: Bellingham & Whatcom County Stay Steady as 2026 Approaches
As 2025 comes to a close, the housing market in Bellingham and across Whatcom County remains stable and resilient. While national headlines point to uncertainty and shifting mortgage rates, local data continues to show a balanced, sustainable market… one that favors well-prepared buyers and realistic, informed sellers.
Despite the seasonal slowdown typical of December, both prices and buyer activity have held remarkably firm. With steady demand, consistent pricing, and signs of renewed confidence heading into 2026, the local real estate landscape appears to be on solid footing.
Bellingham Market Snapshot – December 2025
Median Home Price: $728,000
Active Listings: 278
Average Days on Market: 31
Bellingham continues to show resilience, with the median home price edging slightly higher from November’s $727,000. While inventory ticked up to 278 listings, homes are still selling in just about a month on average, a clear indicator that qualified buyers remain engaged even as the holidays approach.
Neighborhoods close to downtown, Fairhaven, and Lake Whatcom continue to command premium prices thanks to limited supply and consistent demand. Move-in ready homes under $750,000 are particularly appealing to first-time and move-up buyers who value proximity to schools, trails, and amenities.
For sellers, the key takeaway is that presentation and pricing precision still matter most. Homes that are priced competitively and marketed effectively continue to see showings and offers, even during the slower winter months.
Whatcom County Market Overview
Median Home Price: $615,000
Active Listings: 766
Average Days on Market: 41
Across Whatcom County, the broader market has maintained impressive stability through year-end. Median prices remain unchanged from November, suggesting that while demand has cooled slightly seasonally, it hasn’t dropped off.
Rural and suburban communities such as Lynden, Ferndale, and Blaine are seeing consistent interest, especially from buyers seeking larger lots, newer construction, or multi-generational living options. Average days on market remain around six weeks, giving buyers a bit of flexibility, though well-priced homes are still moving quickly.
What These Trends Mean for Buyers and Sellers
For Buyers:
This winter offers a window of opportunity. While the selection is slightly better than usual for December, competition tends to pick up again in February and March. If you’re pre-approved and ready, you may find motivated sellers looking to close before spring’s busier season.
For Sellers:
Even in December, serious buyers are out there — especially relocators and those seeking to lock in homes before potential rate changes in 2026. Listing now can help you stand out while inventory is lower, and with steady pricing trends, you don’t necessarily need to wait for spring to get strong offers.
Looking Ahead: Insights for 2026
Early indicators suggest that 2026 could bring renewed market activity and continued price stability. Economists project modest mortgage rate reductions in the first half of the year, which could reignite buyer enthusiasm, particularly among first-time buyers and move-up homeowners who sat out the high-rate environment of 2024–2025.
Here’s what to watch:
Interest rates: A slight dip could stimulate early-spring demand.
Inventory levels: More listings could return as homeowners gain confidence to sell and move.
New construction: Builders are expected to cautiously increase activity, especially in the Ferndale and Lynden areas.
Affordability pressures: Price growth may moderate, but demand for well-priced homes under $700,000 will stay strong.
Overall, 2026 looks poised to be a healthy, active year for Whatcom County real estate, not a boom, but a balanced market with steady opportunities for both sides.
Final Thoughts
As 2025 wraps up, the Bellingham and Whatcom County housing markets have demonstrated remarkable consistency. Prices are stable, inventory remains healthy, and homes are still moving at a steady pace, a testament to the region’s strong local economy and enduring appeal.
If you’re considering buying or selling in early 2026, now is the time to plan ahead. Understanding your neighborhood trends and timing your move strategically can help you make the most of what’s shaping up to be another solid year in Northwest Washington real estate.
If you’d like a customized market report for your neighborhood or a free home value assessment, reach out. We’d be happy to provide a data-driven snapshot to guide your next move.