98226 Property Tax Rate

Property owners in ZIP code 98226 (Bellingham, Washington) pay a median of $4,102/year in property taxes on homes valued at $568,400. This translates to an effective tax rate of 0.72%, which is 6% below the Washington state average of 0.77%.

The monthly property tax burden for a median-valued home in 98226 is approximately $342, which factors into escrow payments on mortgages. This ZIP code is located within Whatcom County. This is $510 more than the Washington average of $3,592/year.

Compared to similar ZIP codes in Washington, 98226 has higher property taxes. ZIP codes with similar effective rates include 98361 (0.72%) and 98007 (0.72%).

In Bellingham, property taxes represent approximately 5.1% of the median household income of $79,684, providing context for the relative tax burden on homeowners in this area.

Washington property reassesses at market value upon sale with no state cap; Whatcom County Assessor will establish your assessed value at purchase price with unrestricted annual growth. Whatcom County offers the Senior/Disabled Property Tax Exemption for homeowners 61+ or disabled with qualifying income (state limit approximately $40,000–$45,000) — this significantly reduces your tax burden if eligible. Contact the Whatcom County Assessor immediately after purchase to apply for senior or disability exemptions; the annual filing deadline is March 31.