Retail sales in Whatcom County surged in 2021

BELLINGHAM, Wash. – Whatcom County consumers opened up their wallets as the economy opened up last year.

The Washington State Department of Revenue reports retail sales of goods like furniture, clothing and cars in Whatcom County totaled $2.6 billion in 2021.

That was a 15% increase over 2020.

Bellingham led the way with $1.8 billion in sales, followed by Lynden and Ferndale with $146 million and $141 million respectively.

Retail trade, which also includes construction, manufacturing and other sectors totaled a whopping $5.6 billion, up 18% from the year before.