UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
Vancouver, WA is the #56 Best City to Live in the USA
| Vancouver, WA Quality of Life Liv Score 615 How We Calculate Our Data |
|---|
| Civics | 35 |
| Demographics | 59 |
| Economy | 89 |
| Education | 44 |
| Health | 55 |
| Housing | 59 |
| Infrastructure | 49 |
| Amenities | 60 |
Why Vancouver is one of the best cities to live in
Situated on the north bank of the Columbia River, Vancouver, WA, is a beautiful city with a full list of amenities. Here, the nearly 193,000 residents are met with a booming downtown that exudes a historic charm with a modern touch featuring gorgeous public art, cute boutiques, unique breweries, delicious food and a calendar of events like First Fridays. In addition, Vancouver’s sturdy business scene is supported by the small businesses that make up more than 95% of its economy, making it one of the best places to live in the U.S. Whether a resident is looking to obtain a job in the manufacturing industry, medical field or another sector, Vancouver supplies plenty of options. Another fun tidbit? Thanks to its proximity to the Cascade Mountains and Columbia River, every season brings new outdoor recreation options!
Small businesses make up more than 95% of the city‘s economy. A few major industries include manufacturing, health care and retail.
Clark College, Washington State University Vancouver & Charter College
While Vancouver does chart more rainfall than the U.S. average, it boasts a mild climate year-round.
Enjoy nature at its best in Vancouver by strolling along Evergreen Highway Trail. If this particular trail doesn‘t tickle your fancy, there‘s no need to worry. Vancouver is an outdoor oasis with more than 90 parks, 20 natural areas and over 20 miles of trails for walking, running, cycling, rollerblading and more.
Vancouver, WA is Remote-Ready
Excellent public transportation, mild climate, tons of third spaces, outdoor activity opportunities and no personal or corporate income tax are all major pros when considering Vancouver for your next landing pad. Plus, there’s a thriving nightlife and home prices are reasonable, only just above the national average and most residents own their homes. Add to the fact the city is beautiful, safe and a stone’s throw from Portland, where there’s no sales tax, and you could have the best of both worlds when it comes to work and play.
What Locals Love in Vancouver, WA
Birdhouse Books offers a great selection of vintage and used books.
Explore Uptown Village – order tasty dishes from a food truck, visit a brewery, shop the unique boutiques and much more.
Check out the Vancouver Farmers Market downtown (March through October).
Grab a burger and beer with friends at Shanahan’s Pub & Grill.
Larson’s Bakery is a great place to find a mouthwatering Danish pastry.
A strong economy, fun community events and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure make Vancouver a best place to live in Washington.
Thinking of Moving to Vancouver?
As a stunning river town in the northwest, Vancouver real estate showcases some of the best properties in the area. If you’re in Vancouver long, you’ll notice it’s a very family-oriented city (though there’s something for everyone here) and the neighborhoods reflect that. Ashley Heights offers four to five bedroom homes built in the ‘90s. Both the Pacific Village and Maple Crest feed into Union High School, which is one of the best schools in the area. There’s even a couple of gated communities like Steamboat Landing and The Cove that offer access to the Columbia River, which many retirees enjoy. This only scratches the surface of homes for sale in Vancouver. There are several Vancouver real estate agents who would love to show you around and help you find the perfect home.
Quick Facts About Vancouver, WA
- Average Commute
- 18.92
- Median Home Value
- $420,948
- Med. Household Income
- $69,371
- Total Population
- 197,159
- Walk Score
- 40
- Median Property Tax
- $3,752
