http://travel.usatoday.com/destinations/dispatches/post/2011/01/the-10-happiest-towns-in-the-west-/140664/1

Well folks, Bellingham has done it once again.  We’re still a very popular location, which may be one reason why, compared to much of the rest of the nation, our home prices have held far more steady over the last few years of decline.  Yes, we have lost some value, which is good for the Whatcom County and Bellingham buyers, but bad for the sellers.  Yet certain segments of our market have been less affected than others.  Compared to Nevada, Florida, arizona and California, we’re smilin’!