Whatcom County, WA
230,677 residents · 2,108 sq mi · 109.4/sq mi · 29% rural
About Whatcom County
Whatcom County is a county located in the northwestern corner of the U.S. state of Washington, bordered by the Lower Mainland of the Canadian province of British Columbia to the north, Okanogan County to the east, Skagit County to the south, San Juan County across Rosario Strait to the southwest, and the Strait of Georgia to the west. Its county seat and largest population center is the coastal city of Bellingham. Whatcom County is coterminous with the Bellingham, WA Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2020 census, the county's population was 226,847.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a temperate climate with an annual mean of 44.8°F and substantial rainfall at 72.2 inches per year, supporting lush vegetation and a USDA growing zone of 8b. The terrain is diverse, featuring coastal regions and mountainous areas that can provide both beauty and challenges for self-sufficient living. The growing season is moderate, allowing for a variety of crops, though the high rainfall may require careful water management strategies.
This region faces significant natural hazards, with FEMA rankings indicating high risks for avalanches, earthquakes, and landslides (all ranked 98). The cost of living is another consideration, as median home prices are relatively high at $475,000, which may be prohibitive for some. While the violence percentile is low at 13, indicating a safer environment, the overall density of 109.4 people per square mile may not appeal to those seeking extreme remoteness.
Whatcom County could be a good fit for those who appreciate a milder climate and are prepared to navigate natural hazards. Homesteaders with experience in diverse agricultural practices and disaster preparedness may thrive here. However, individuals seeking a low-cost, completely rural lifestyle might find the housing market and environmental risks challenging, making this area less suitable for them.