What to know when moving to Vancouver, WA
Vancouver at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 60.6% of residents rent and the median household income is $65,147.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $1,408, making it a more affordable option compared to nearby urban areas.
- The Reality Check:
- The poverty rate stands at 18.8%, indicating some economic challenges within the community.
- Commute:
- Only 3.1% of residents use public transit for their commute.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median home value of $444,300 if you're looking to buy.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Vancouver, located in Clark County, has a population of around 13,699, with 60.6% of households renting. The community is moderately educated, with 38.1% holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The area experiences a relatively high poverty rate of 18.8%, which may be a factor for those considering a move here.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a strong public transit system or are sensitive to higher poverty rates.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,408, which is affordable compared to many urban areas.
- The median home value is $444,300, which reflects local housing market dynamics.
- With 60.6% of residents renting, there is a substantial rental market.
- The poverty rate is 18.8%, indicating some economic challenges.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Washington state has seen a notable decrease in crime rates, with property crime down 43.1% from 2022 to 2025. The annual property crime rate is 1,940.4 per 100,000 residents, which is 25.4% higher than the national average.
- Violent crime: 282.2 per 100,000 vs. national average of 325.3, a decrease of 26.2% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,940.4 per 100,000 vs. national average of 1,546.9, a decrease of 43.1% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have dropped by 46.1% since 2022, with an annual rate of 2.8 per 100,000.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Washington).
Schools & Higher Ed
Vancouver has access to several educational institutions, with 25 postsecondary options in the vicinity. This includes both local and nearby schools, providing a range of opportunities for higher education.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 25
- Local institutions include Clark College and Washington State University-Vancouver.
- Nearby options extend into Multnomah County, including several schools in Portland.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data is unavailable, Vancouver offers several parks and outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy. These spots provide opportunities for recreation and relaxation.
- Esther Short Park and Playground - 4.5 stars from 3,879 reviews
- Salmon Creek Regional Park/Klineline Pond - 4.4 stars from 1,431 reviews
- Fort Vancouver National Historic Site - 4.7 stars from 961 reviews
- Nikkei Park - 4.7 stars from 730 reviews
Source: Google Places API.