Canadian shoppers have long played an important role in Whatcom County’s retail economy. From grocery stores and gas stations to restaurants, clothing retailers, and big-box stores, cross-border spending has historically provided a meaningful boost to local businesses. Recent data suggests that this spending has slowed noticeably. During the second and third quarters of 2025, personal vehicle border crossings from Canada into Whatcom County were down approximately 28% compa

Key Questions As gas prices have spiked in Washington State, have they also spiked in Canada? How has the relationship changed between gas prices north and south of the border? And when gas prices are meaningfully different on one side of the border, how does that affect border crossings? Gas Prices Remain Higher in British Columbia Gas prices in British Columbia are typically higher than in Washington State, which has historically encouraged some Canadian drivers to cross th

The Whatcom County housing market is soft compared to recent years, although homes remain unaffordable for many buyers. The number of homes for sale at this time of year is at its highest in 10 years. The months of supply is at its highest in 10 years, but it is a balanced market, not a buyer's market. Median home prices remain elevated, but price growth has come to a halt. Based on the 3-month moving average, the median residential home price is currently $634,000. Notably,