Typical Lot Size
4,500–7,500
sq ft
Max ADUs
2
per lot
Permit Type
type_i
Timeline
4-6 weeks
Median Home Price
$425,000–$575,000
Est. ADU Rent
$1,300–$1,700/month
Neighborhood Overview
Roosevelt is a diverse, centrally-located neighborhood known for its mix of housing types and strong community identity. Good lot sizes and few restrictions make it a practical choice for ADU construction, with rental demand supported by proximity to downtown and transit.
Diverse, community-oriented neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes, duplexes, and small apartment buildings. Active community garden, neighborhood park, and good access to downtown via E. Holly Street.
ADU Construction Allowed
Roosevelt qualifies for ADU construction under Bellingham's updated ordinance (BMC 20.10.036) and Washington's HB 1337.
- Detached ADUs (DADUs) allowed
- Attached ADUs allowed (basement, addition, above-garage)
- Up to 2 ADUs per lot
- Parking exempt (near transit)
Transit routes: WTA routes along Holly Street and Meridian
Why Build an ADU in Roosevelt
- Diverse housing stock — ADUs fit naturally into the neighborhood fabric
- Some of Bellingham's most affordable entry points for ADU investment
- Good transit access along Holly Street and Meridian corridors
- Established rental market with mix of long-term and shorter-term tenants
- Community-oriented neighborhood that has embraced gentle density
Special Considerations
Some lots are narrower than average — attached ADUs may be more practical than detached on sub-5,000 sq ft lots
Mixed housing types mean your ADU design should complement the varied streetscape
Alley access on some blocks provides ideal rear-lot ADU access
Learn more about ADU regulations: Review Bellingham ADU laws, understand the permitting process, or see the complete cost breakdown for Whatcom County.
Explore ADU options: Compare detached ADUs, attached ADUs, garage conversions, and basement conversions. Not sure which? Read our DADU vs ADU comparison.
Planning resources: Financing options, rental income estimates, ROI analysis, and the complete building checklist.
Ready to get started? Book a free 30-minute consultation to talk through your specific parcel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Roosevelt affordable for ADU construction?
Yes. Roosevelt has some of Bellingham's most accessible property values ($425,000–$575,000), keeping total ADU project costs lower. Combined with solid rental rates ($1,300–$1,700/month), the ROI math works well for most homeowners.
What ADU types work on Roosevelt's lots?
Both attached and detached ADUs work in Roosevelt. Larger lots (6,000+ sq ft) can accommodate detached units, while narrower lots are better suited for basement conversions, attached additions, or garage conversions. Many Roosevelt homes have garages ideal for conversion.
Does Roosevelt have good transit access for parking exemptions?
Yes. Roosevelt is served by WTA routes along Holly Street and Meridian, placing most properties within the ½-mile transit exemption zone. No off-street parking is required for ADU construction.
How does Roosevelt compare to other neighborhoods for ADU investment?
Roosevelt offers the best value proposition in Bellingham: lower entry costs, straightforward permitting, and solid rental demand. While rental rates are slightly below premium neighborhoods like Fairhaven, the lower investment means a faster payback period.
