Fairhaven

Welcome to Fairhaven

Picturesque beauty abounds in this hip, historic heart of Bellingham

Established in 1853 and designated as a historic district in 1977, the charming enclave of Fairhaven has long enjoyed its unique distinction as one of the most coveted regions in Bellingham. From the stunning Fairhaven Hotel—which once catered to the likes of Mark Twain–to the gorgeous, 19th-century brick buildings that line its streets, the former salmon, coal, and lumber hamlet’s rich, immersive past has been gorgeously maintained, giving every visitor and resident a sweet taste of the Pacific Northwest’s storied history. 

While a deep sense of history permeates the village of Fairhaven, it’s also profoundly entrenched in the present and wholly committed to a promising future. Featuring an impressive concentration of irresistible restaurants, excellent bars, wonderful galleries, pristine parks, and unique boutiques, it bridges the past with the here and now with utmost grace. Its amenities are hard to beat, but the ample natural splendors that surround the village—from the views of Bellingham Bay to the lush forests that define Washington State–remind residents they’re fortunate enough to live in one of the most striking natural environments in the country.

What to Love

  • Spectacular vistas of the Salish Sea
  • It boasts 17 remarkable historical buildings
  • Splendid architecture, including beautifully-restored Victorian homes
  • An array of delightful shops, restaurants, and pubs
  • Less than two hours away from downtown Seattle
  • Proximity to Vancouver and the magical San Juan Islands

Local Lifestyle

History buffs take tremendous pride and pleasure in calling Fairhaven home, but its allure certainly doesn’t stop there. As one of the most desirable parts of Bellingham, it’s filled with families, retirees, students who attend Western Washington University, and professionals from a wide range of industries who enjoy Fairhaven’s stellar architecture and focus on preserving the village’s historical appeal. The neighborhood as a whole has an intimate feel and a worldly ethos, thanks in part to its proximity to Vancouver and Seattle.

Dining, Shopping & Entertainment

Named a historic village by the National Register of Historic Places, Fairhaven is as much of a destination as it is an utterly wonderful place to call home. As such, it flourishes with terrific taverns and eateries. Fairhaven locals’ favorite bar, Archer Ale House, is chief among them. This warm, inviting pub features elevated bar bites with a British edge, like Shepherd’s Pie, and a range of artisan brews. Stones Throw Brewery is another beloved Fairhaven haunt. This awesome tavern offers a selection of craft libations, such as Raincountry Liquid Sunshine, and an excellent patio to enjoy camaraderie under the sun or stars. 

For a memorable meal in an enchanting venue that was established nearly half a century ago, residents and visitors book a table at the legendary Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse, where prime cuts are cooked to perfection, and fresh seafood is prepared with artistry. Other venues are ripe for exploring, including Estelle and Mambo Italiano Cafe.

Shopping in Fairhaven is equally delightful. From Eleventh Street Goods, a boutique that specializes in fashions created by both local artists and brands from around the globe, to a three-story bookstore, the enclave brims with wonderful venues.

Things to Do

In addition to its thriving downtown district, Fairhaven hosts a selection of festivals throughout the year. The culmination of the incredibly popular Ski to Sea is celebrated at its finish line in Fairhaven, where thousands of people gather to raise a glass to the athletes who completed the relay race from Mount Baker to Bellingham.

Fairhaven’s assortment of immaculate parks amplifies the neighborhood’s allure. From Marine Park to Fairhaven Park, residents have several resplendent areas to relish time outside. Boulevard Park holds particular appeal. A waterfront boardwalk, a trail connecting Fairhaven to Bellingham, splendid vistas, magnificent trees, a scenic dock, and great spots for a picnic—all are found in spades in this 40-plus-year-old city sanctuary.

Schools

Fairhaven is served under the Bellingham School District. A few of the schools nearby include:

Overview for Fairhaven, WA

972 people live in Fairhaven, where the median age is 45 and the average individual income is $51,003. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

972

Total Population

45 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$51,003

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for Fairhaven, WA

Population Households Employment

Fairhaven has 628 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Fairhaven do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 972 people call Fairhaven home. The population density is 27,746.169 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

972

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

45

Median Age

46.71 / 53.29%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
628

Total Households

2

Average Household Size

$51,003

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Around Fairhaven, WA

There's plenty to do around Fairhaven, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

78
Very Walkable
Walking Score
73
Very Bikeable
Bike Score
35
Some Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Mercato della Bonta, Guud Bowls, and The Bellingham Baker.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Mercato della Bonta Logo
Dining 2.49 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Guud Bowls Logo
Dining 2.65 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
The Bellingham Baker Logo
Dining 2.69 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Rain or Shine Riviera Club Logo
Dining 2.25 miles 7 reviews 5/5 stars
Marie’s Bees Logo
Dining 2.62 miles 9 reviews 5/5 stars
JD Elite Fitness Logo
Active 3.36 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
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Specializing in relocation, new construction properties, and vacant land, Derek sets himself apart by providing an exceptional real estate experience. He is the only agent in Whatcom County to achieve the Accredited Land Consultant designation from the LAND Institute.

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Contact Details

Derek Buse

Phone

(360) 599-0379

Email

[email protected]

Address

1318 12th Street Bellingham, WA 98225

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