Is Bellingham Sunnier than Seattle?
If you’ve ever lived in Seattle, you know the drill: you check the weather forecast in the morning, see the little rain cloud icon, and grab your umbrella before stepping out the door. It’s practically a reflex. But what if you’re considering a move to Bellingham? Is this Pacific Northwest city any sunnier, or are we all just swapping one rain-soaked town for another?
A Tale of Two Cities (and Lots of Clouds)
Let’s start with the numbers: Seattle sees an average of 152 sunny days per year, while Bellingham clocks in at around 157. That’s right, a whopping five extra days of sunshine! Don’t go buying your sunscreen in bulk just yet, but it’s a start. While neither city is exactly Southern California, Bellingham does offer a little more Vitamin D.
Pro Tip: Think of it this way—every extra sunny day is another excuse to enjoy a hike at Whatcom Falls or a sunset stroll at Boulevard Park. That’s one more day you can smugly sip your latte outside while Seattleites scramble for cover.
The Great Rain Debate
Bellingham and Seattle both get their fair share of rain, but Seattle tends to hold the title of “Rain Capital of the PNW.” With around 38 inches of rainfall a year compared to Bellingham’s 34 inches, it’s safe to say that you’ll need that raincoat either way. The difference? Bellingham tends to have more scattered showers and—wait for it—actual breaks in the clouds!
Fun Fact: If Seattleites are experts in huddling under coffee shop awnings, Bellingham residents have perfected the art of dodging rain drops between sun breaks. It’s a skill that comes in handy!
Lifestyle Perks of More Sunshine
So what do those few extra sunny days really mean? More opportunities to enjoy everything Bellingham has to offer. From kayaking in Bellingham Bay to exploring the local farmers’ markets, those glimpses of sunshine make outdoor activities even more enjoyable. Plus, who doesn’t love a sunny day to check out local real estate?
Spoiler Alert: On those rare, glorious sunny days, don’t be surprised if you find yourself falling even more in love with this city. It’s like Bellingham’s little way of saying, “Hey, maybe you should move here!”
The Real Question: Is the Weather Worth the Move?
If you’re deciding between Seattle and Bellingham based on sunshine alone, you might not get the drastic change you’re hoping for. But here’s the thing: living in Bellingham isn’t just about a few extra sunbeams. It’s about the community, the access to nature, the small-town charm with all the amenities you need, and—let’s not forget—the more relaxed pace of life.
Ready to Find Your Sunny Spot in Bellingham?
Whether you’re chasing those extra rays of sunshine or simply looking for a change of pace, Bellingham has so much to offer. Let us help you find the perfect home where you can enjoy all the beauty (and yes, the occasional sun) that this city has to offer. Reach out today, and let’s turn those sunny daydreams into reality!