Top 50 College Towns You'll Want To Live In From Sea To Shining Sea

44. Bellingham, Washington: Pacific Northwest Vibes near Vancouver

Bellingham, home to Western Washington University, is a hidden gem between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. Framed by the San Juan Islands and the North Cascades, it offers ocean views, alpine hikes, and a fiercely local creative scene. The town is a magnet for environmentalists, artists, and students who want both solitude and stimulation. Its downtown is packed with independent bookstores, local coffee roasters, and waterfront hangouts. While Seattle is just 90 minutes south, Bellingham has carved out its own identity—less crowded, more intentional, and deeply rooted in community-driven progress. For West Coast dreamers who value nature, art, and purpose, Bellingham hits every note.