Business

Whatcom among the top 10 wealthiest counties in Washington. Here’s how it compares

This panoramic view of Bellingham shows Squalicum Marina in the foreground. Whatcom County is ranked the sixth-welthiest in the state of Washington. in terms of home prices, median income and other variables.
This panoramic view of Bellingham shows Squalicum Marina in the foreground. Whatcom County is ranked the sixth-welthiest in the state of Washington. in terms of home prices, median income and other variables. Getty Images

A recent study by SmartAsset, an investment adviser website, found the top 10 wealthiest counties in Washington state, and Whatcom County ranked among them.

The study evaluated each county by their investment income, property value and median income.

Overall, King County was ranked as the most-wealthy county in Washington, followed by San Juan, Snohomish, Island, Kitsap and Whatcom County in 6th place.

Whatcom County’s median income was $70,011, based on 2021 census data. Its investment income was $39,353, and the county’s median home value was $569,207. Whatcom County also had the fourth-highest median home value. The median rent in Whatcom for a two-bedroom house or apartment is $1,355, according to the National Low-Income Housing Coalition.

Following Whatcom County was Clark County, Pierce, Jefferson and Skagit County to round out the 10th wealthiest county in the state.

This story was originally published June 20, 2023 at 11:18 AM.

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Alyse Smith
The Bellingham Herald
Alyse Smith is a reporter at The Bellingham Herald covering retail, restaurants, jobs and business. If you like stories like this, please consider supporting our work with a subscription to our newspaper.
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