Is Vancouver, WA a Good Place to Live in 2024?

What Is Vancouver, WA Known For?

Vancouver, Washington, is located approximately 10 miles north of Portland, Oregon, the nearest metro area. The city is most renowned for its waterfront revitalization, rich history, quiet refuge for those weary of the hustle of nearby Portland, and family-friendly suburban atmosphere. The city is also known for its thriving local businesses and abundant green spaces.

Vancouver, leaning moderately liberal, boasts an increasingly diverse demographic. It's a mix of races, and minority groups are growing in visibility. People of various sexual orientations also find a sense of community here. Though the majority is Caucasian, it's a colorful tapestry that continues to change.

For families, it's the suburban dream with excellent parks. Retirees appreciate the tranquility and healthcare options. Students benefit from solid schools and libraries, while singles and couples find a burgeoning scene of cafés and eateries to explore. Those of diverse beliefs and backgrounds will find inclusive community organizations.

Highlights

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Pros and Cons

The Pros of living in Vancouver, WA, include green spaces, quiet living, accessibility, and more. While some Cons are around traffic, limited nightlife, and weather.
Read more in Pros and Cons.

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Safety and Crime

Vancouver, WA is ranked 447th out of the top 500 most populated cities in the US for highest overall safety, is ranked 402nd on safety from violent crime, and 478th on safety from property crime.
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Cost of Living

Compared to the rest of the US, the cost of living in Vancouver, WA is 7% lower than the national average.
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Discretionary Income

A gross annual salary of $80,000 in Vancouver, WA leaves $1,633 of “money in the pocket” per month on average.
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Climate and Weather

The average daily temperature in Vancouver, WA in January is 44°F and 73°F in July. Compared to the rest of the 333 most populated cities in the US, this city is on average +1°F warmer in January and is on average -6°F cooler in July.
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Politics and Voting

Vancouver, WA voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential election, with 51.0% of the votes counted going to this party.
Read more in Politics and Voting.

The assessments presented on this website, including those related to crime, safety, cost of living, and other location characteristics (e.g., states, cities, towns, villages, neighborhoods, areas, landmarks), are based on various sources and our internal research methods. These assessments are not guaranteed to be accurate or complete and should not be used as the sole basis for making any decisions.