Welcome to Vancouver
Booming riverside community with small-town vibes
Located right across from Portland on the north side of the Columbia River, Vancouver is a city adorned by mountains, rivers, trees, and lakes, offering residents access to big city amenities while maintaining its charming, laid-back atmosphere. Constantly evolving and welcoming new residents, this beautiful town endows locals with loads of fun outdoor activities ranging from recreational adventures to vibrant festivals, sunset concerts, and the biggest fireworks show west of the Mississippi!
Vancouver got its start around a fur-trading outpost on the Washington-Oregon border and was reputed as the only desirable spot for settlement west of the Rocky Mountains back in the early 1800s. Diverse commercial industries reflect the city's economic history, and today, residents thrive off of the zero income tax, enjoying the best of both worlds with proximity to Portland - where they can shop without paying sales tax. Vancouver real estate has a median price of $475,000.
Explore the charming residential streets to discover an array of homes flaunting lovely facades and diverse architectural styles. From Mediterraneans to bungalows and ranch homes to custom-built masterpieces, Vancouver offers just a little bit of everything.
For more real estate options, check out these nearby neighborhoods:
What to Love
- Zero income tax
- Many community events to partake in
- The gorgeous landscape of forests, snow-capped mountains, and lakes
- Quick drive to the airport
- Charming hospitality
Local Lifestyle
Vancouver's laid-back, suburban atmosphere makes it a thriving haven of progressive individuals connected by a deep appreciation of the city's brilliant arts, music, and culture scene. The casual lifestyle in Couve Town is enviable, with loads of people flocking in due to the unbeatable craft breweries, charming hospitality, and exciting town events. If not having to pay any income tax while being close to fantastic restaurants, recreational venues, and great schools sounds like an appealing deal to you, Vancouver is perfectly tailored to your needs!
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Vancouver is home to southwest Washington's premier shopping destination, Vancouver Mall, anchored by Macy's, H&M, JCPenney, and a host of retailers. Check out trendy apparel, jeans, and accessories at Windsor, and find the perfect sneakers at Famous Footwear before heading over to Morgan Jewelers for an excellent new watch.
The Cove is where locals go to enjoy fresh seafood served with a local beer or craft cocktails and wine. Select from their menu of delectable starters like seafood chowder and sandwiches filled with grass-fed beef. Relish your meal at an outdoor seating area overlooking the dazzling waterfront.
Stop into La Bottega for classic Italian fare paired with wines, and visit Thai Orchid for pineapple fried rice, pumpkin curry, and vegetable rolls. Every weekend from March through October, come to Downtown Vancouver Farmers Market to pick up fresh, organic food, local craft masterpieces, fresh jam and cheese, and beautiful flowers!
Things to Do
Heritage stands tall in Vancouver, embodied by the reconstructed Fort Vancouver perched against the backdrop of snowy mountain peaks and a vibrant urban landscape. This park tells the story of a frontier fur-trading post that became a powerful military legacy and spawned the magic of flight alongside the origin of the American Pacific Northwest.
Come show your support for local businesses at the frequently anticipated Craft Beer and Wine Fest, overflowing with drinks, food, and music while proceeds cater to eradicating hunger completely in Clark County. Vancouver is certainly a town of mindful, eco-conscious citizens who have taken a big step to celebrate local artists bringing life to old art at the Recycled Arts Festival - an event done to excite the community about the value of waste reduction, reuse, and recycling!
As rightly put by The Oregonian, "...few capture a finer spirit than the Vancouver Wine and Jazz Festival,” which happens every year and features internationally acclaimed jazz, gospel, and pop musicians. You wouldn't want to miss out on the excitement!
Is Vancouver, Washington a Good Place to Live?
According to Niche, Vancouver is the 11th best city for outdoor activities in America. It's also one of the healthiest and safest cities in the country.
Is it Better to Live in Portland or Vancouver?
Vancouver has a lower yearly property tax rate than Portland, making it the more affordable city to own a home in. In addition, cost of living is cheaper in Vancouver than in its neighboring city.
Is Vancouver a Part of Portland?
Vancouver and Portland are two different cities that make up one metropolitan area. The two cities are divided by the Columbia river, rich runs in between Washington and Oregon.
How Much is it to Buy a House in Vancouver, Washington?
Houses for sale in Vancouver, Washington cost around $500,000 at a median listing home price per square foot of about $291.
Schools
Vancouver is served by the Vancouver Public Schools, home to a number of excellent schools. Top educational institutions include:
