98229 Property Tax Rate

Property owners in ZIP code 98229 (Bellingham, Washington) pay a median of $4,406/year in property taxes on homes valued at $564,700. This translates to an effective tax rate of 0.78%, which is near the Washington state average of 0.77%.

The monthly property tax burden for a median-valued home in 98229 is approximately $367, which factors into escrow payments on mortgages. This ZIP code is located within Whatcom County. This is $814 more than the Washington average of $3,592/year.

Compared to similar ZIP codes in Washington, 98229 has lower property taxes. ZIP codes with similar effective rates include 98110 (0.78%) and 98122 (0.78%).

In Bellingham, property taxes represent approximately 4.9% of the median household income of $90,068, 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.