Aerial view of the Vancouver, WA, waterfront at sunset. As one of the best places to live in the U.S., Vancouver is an inclusive place to call home, with a proud LGBTQ community and a longstanding Pride celebration.
Courtesy of Vancouver Tourism

Vancouver, WABest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023

Located along the Columbia River, Vancouver combines natural beauty and urban amenities. With a friendly community, a strong job market and excellent schools, not to mention a low cost of living and plenty of outdoor activities, Vancouver offers a high quality of life.

Vancouver, WA, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America

Find Pacific Northwest magic at its best in Vancouver, WA. This community of 200,000 sits nestled along the shores of the Columbia River Gorge and is conveniently located across from Portland, with the Cascade Mountains providing a gorgeous backdrop. 

As one of the best places to live in the U.S., Vancouver is an inclusive place to call home, with a proud LGBTQ community and a longstanding Pride celebration. Vancouver is also the birthplace of Willie Nelson’s music career and is not too far from the Pacific Ocean, which comes with all the makings for great weekend escapes — we’re talking moody beach towns, whale-watching spots and coastal trails. Residents can also fill their weekend calendars with fun things to do, including festivals that celebrate everything from art made of recycled materials to Polynesian culture. Or kick your feet up and appreciate the region’s burgeoning craft beer and wine scene. 

Not surprisingly, “The ’Couve” has great local roasters and coffee shops (there’s even a festival devoted to cold brew!), cozy bakeries and a fantastic beer scene, with traditions like Music Bingo at Ghost Runners Brewery. Plus, the waterfront is bustling. Locals and tourists alike can take a leisurely stroll at the Vancouver Waterfront Park and grab some beer-battered fish and chips from a walk-up window at What a Catch Fishbar.

Part of the “Silicon Forest,” the greater Clark County area is appealing to startup and software companies that are looking for alternatives to the Bay Area and Seattle. Clean technology, solar power and autonomous cars are all industries showing lots of promise in Vancouver and its environs. 

Vancouver, WA Quality of Life LivScore

0 1000 1000 782

Vancouver, WA Top Categories

  • Environment

  • Economy

  • Transportation

Vancouver ranks highest for environment, economy and transportation.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Vancouver, WA

What is the weather like in Vancouver?

Vancouver’s year-round climate is mild, with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing and temperate summers that rarely go into the 80s. Spring brings a few showers, and fall is gorgeous. The average highs and lows are 79°F and 56°F (summer) and 48°F and 35°F (winter). 

Does Vancouver get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Vancouver is relatively low at just 3.8 inches.

Does Vancouver get a lot of rain? 

The average annual rainfall in Vancouver is around 42 inches, with November through February being the rainiest season. 

How many sunny days does Vancouver get?

Vancouver averages 144 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Vancouver?

Go kayaking, canoeing or try out windsurfing at Vancouver Lake Regional Park.

Vancouver Weather

144 days

Average Annual Sun

42 inches

Average Annual Rain

3.8 inches

Average Annual Snow

Things To Do in Vancouver, WA

What makes Vancouver special?

First debuted during the 1850s, Esther Short Park in downtown Vancouver is the oldest public square in Washington and probably the West. It remains a community gathering space today, and 35 cast-bronze bells in a 69-foot bell tower chime throughout the day. 

What are some free things to do in Vancouver?

See early 20th-century aircraft on display at the Pearson Air Museum.

What are some fun things to do with kids in Vancouver?

Grab the kids and take them to explore Uptown Village. Visitors can order tasty dishes from a variety of food trucks, visit a kid-friendly brewery, shop the unique boutiques and much more. 

Where do locals shop in Vancouver?

The Vancouver Farmers Market is a favorite local spot. You can even get a Market Box subscription packed with fruits, veggies, recipes and preparation ideas.

Residents of Vancouver, WA, can fill their weekend calendars with fun things to do, like see early 20th-century aircraft on display at the Pearson Air Museum.
Courtesy of Vancouver Tourism
Residents of Vancouver, WA, can fill their weekend calendars with fun things to do, like see early 20th-century aircraft on display at the Pearson Air Museum.

The Local and State Economy in Vancouver, WA

What are the three largest industries in Vancouver?

Manufacturing, health care and technology are three of the largest industries in Vancouver. Small businesses make up nearly 95% of the city’s economy. 

What is the sales tax rate in Vancouver?

In 2023, the sales tax rate in Vancouver is 8.7%. 

Does Washington have a state income tax?

No, Washington does not have a state income tax. 

Who are the major health care providers in Vancouver?

PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center is the largest hospital in the Vancouver area and is a high performer in nine procedures and conditions. Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center is also a high-performing facility in the area, and residents have access to even more health care providers and options in nearby Portland. 

What colleges and universities are in Vancouver?

There are several colleges and universities in Vancouver, WA, including Clark College, Washington State University and Charter College. 

Quick Facts About Vancouver, WA

Median Household Income
$69,371
Courtesy of Vancouver Tourism
Median Home Value
$420,948
Courtesy of Vancouver Tourism
Average State Property Tax
$3,752
Courtesy of Vancouver Tourism
Total Population
197,159
Courtesy of Vancouver Tourism
Median Rent/Mo.
$1,309
Courtesy of Vancouver Tourism
Average Commute
18.92 minutes
Courtesy of Vancouver Tourism

Vancouver’s high-quality educational offerings and strong economy landed it on the list. It has the highest overall score among Washington cities. Learn more about Vancouver and its delicious dining scene, or consider more great communities near Portland.

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2023

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