Living in Vancouver Washington - EVERYTHING You Need to Know

Pros and Cons of Living in Vancouver Washington

Living in Vancouver Washington Pros​

1. Proximity to Portland, Oregon: Vancouver is located just across the Columbia River from Portland, providing easy access to this city's many amenities and attractions. Plus, Oregon doesn’t charge sales tax, making shopping more affordable if you’re willing to cross the Oregon border!

2. Lower cost of living: Vancouver's cost of living is generally lower than many other cities in the Pacific Northwest –especially compared to Portland– making it an affordable place to live.

3. Outdoor recreation: Vancouver has abundant natural beauty, with easy access to hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities.

4. Robust economy: Vancouver's economy is strong and diverse, with a mix of job opportunities and industries both in the city and in nearby Portland.

5. Good schools: Vancouver has several highly rated public and private schools, providing families with excellent educational options.

6. Cultural attractions: Vancouver has a thriving arts and culture scene, with museums, galleries, and performing arts venues.

7. Community events: Vancouver hosts various community events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and fairs, providing opportunities to connect with neighbors and friends.

Living in Vancouver Washington Cons

1. Traffic congestion: Vancouver is a rapidly growing region, and traffic congestion can be a problem during peak commuting hours. This is especially true if you plan on working in nearby Portland, OR — some weekday commutes take over an hour just to get across the Washington border!

2. Limited public transportation: While a bus system serves Vancouver and the Portland Metro area, public transportation options are limited compared to larger cities.

3. High housing costs: While Vancouver's cost of living is generally lower than Portland, housing costs have been rising rapidly in recent years, making it more difficult for some residents to find affordable housing.

4. Rainy weather: Vancouver has a mild climate but it can be rainy for much of the year, which may be challenging for some residents who prefer more sunshine.

5. Limited nightlife: Vancouver's nightlife scene is limited compared to larger cities, which may be a drawback for some residents who enjoy going out in the evenings. While Portland may be close by and action-packed, returning home safely to Vancouver may be more difficult than you expect based on available public transportation options.

FAQs About Living in Vancouver Washington

What is Vancouver known for?

Vancouver is known for being the oldest city in Washington State. It was founded in 1825 as a fur trading post and played a significant role in the development of the Pacific Northwest. Many of its historic buildings and landmarks are still standing today and the city continues to honor its past through its museums, heritage sites, and events.

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What cities are nearby Vancouver, Washington?

The cities of Camas, Washougal, Battle Ground, and Ridgefield are all close on the Washington side of the border. Head south into Oregon and Portland is about 10 miles away. Driving time can vary to Portland but it usually takes about 20-30 minutes.

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What is the weather like in Vancouver?

The weather in Vancouver, Washington is generally mild, with four seasons. Summers are warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 90s. Winters are mild and rainy, with average temperatures in the mid-40s. The region is known for its greenery and abundant rainfall, with an average annual precipitation of around 43 inches.

Does Vancouver Washington have good public schools?

Absolutely. The Vancouver School District, where roughly 67% of Vancouver students attend school, is rated highly and got an 85% graduation rate during the past school year, above the Washington State average. The Evergreen School District, which serves the other 33%, is also highly rated and got an 87% graduation rate. 

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Who are some large employers in Vancouver Washington?

Some of the largest employers in Vancouver, WA include the PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center with over 4,000 employees, the Evergreen School District with over 1,500 employees, the Vancouver School District with over 1,300 employees, the City of Vancouver with over 1,100 employees, and the Clark County government with more than 1,000 employees.

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Is Vancouver Washington safe?

According to WalletHub Vancouver, Washington, is the 58th safest city in America in 2023. Statistically, Vancouver, Washington, has a lower crime rate than the national average, making it a relatively safe place to live. However, like any city, it is not entirely free from crime, and it is important to take precautions to stay safe.

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I want to relocate to Vancouver.  How do I make it happen?

You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Vancouver, Washington.  There’s a lot of information on this website to help including some helpful links below. If you want to ask questions, try our Facebook Group > Moving to Washington  where we have broad group of locals to answer any question you might have. If you’re looking to buy a home in the Vancouver area, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your first step. For Mortgage Info, reach out to me. I would love to tell you more about what living in Vancouver, Washington, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.