Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Vancouver, WA
Considering a move to Vancouver, WA? Home to nearly 195,000 residents, Vancouver offers a moderate cost of living, with median home prices around $429,000 and average rents at $1,570. Residents enjoy a mild climate, an average 26-minute commute, and access to reputable schools and healthcare. While property crime is above the national average, Vancouver’s diverse neighborhoods, proximity to Portland, and growing amenities make it a popular choice for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Vancouver, WA
Demographics - Vancouver, WA
Vancouver, WA is home to nearly 195,000 residents, with a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 36.8 years. The city has a diverse population, with over 15% speaking languages other than English at home and a strong representation of various ethnic backgrounds. Its moderate population density offers a blend of urban amenities and community feel.
Population:
194,512
Density:
3,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.8
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
15.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
73.6%
Black:
3.2%
Asian:
5.6%
Others:
17.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Vancouver, WA?
Vancouver’s cost of living is moderately higher than the national average, with a median home value of $429,000 and typical rents around $1,570 per month. Utilities and groceries are generally affordable, and the absence of state income tax can be an advantage for many residents. Overall, the city offers a balanced lifestyle with reasonable living expenses for the region.
Median House Value:
$429,000
Gross Rent:
$1,570
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,080
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$625
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9%
Cost Of Living Index:
119.6
Grocery:
108.2
Housing:
125.1
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
108.3
Health Care:
103.7
Miscellaneous:
101.2
Crime
Is Vancouver, WA a safe place to live?
While Vancouver experiences a slightly elevated property crime rate—about 2,487 incidents per 100,000 residents—violent crime remains relatively low, with a 1 in 328 chance of victimization. The city's overall crime index suggests that safety is a consideration, particularly for property-related incidents. Residents are encouraged to stay proactive about neighborhood security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
305
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,487
Crime Index:
2,792
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 328
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 40
Weather
What is the weather like in Vancouver, WA year-round?
Vancouver enjoys a mild, Pacific Northwest climate with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers; average summer highs reach 81°F while winters rarely drop below 34°F. The city receives about 42 inches of rainfall annually, and nearly half the days are sunny. This temperate weather allows year-round outdoor activities and lush green surroundings.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
45°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Typical Vancouver households earn around $72,500 annually, with a poverty rate of 12.3%. Nearly 91% of adults have completed high school, and the average commute is just over 26 minutes. The area is known for its friendly neighborhoods and a modest rate of public transit use.
Median Income:
$39,500
Household Income:
$72,500
Family Income:
$83,200
Per Capita Income:
$36,100
Income Male:
$47,100
Income Female:
$40,300
Poverty Rate:
12.3%
Non English Speakers:
15.3%
Rent:
$1,570
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
3.6%
Commute Time:
26.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.8%
Bachelors or More:
28.6%
Education
How are the schools in Vancouver, WA?
Vancouver boasts a variety of educational options, including highly attended public high schools and reputable private institutions. The city is also home to Clark College and Washington State University Vancouver, providing higher education opportunities for over 14,000 students. Residents benefit from strong K-12 schools and accessible college campuses.
Public Schools
Name:
Skyview High School
Street:
1300 NW 139th St
Phone:
360-313-4200
Students:
1,850
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.1
Name:
Columbia River High School
Street:
800 NW 99th St
Phone:
360-313-3900
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.6
Private Schools
Name:
Seton Catholic College Preparatory High School
Street:
9000 NE 64th Ave
Phone:
360-258-1932
Students:
270
Colleges
Name:
Clark College
City:
Vancouver
State:
WA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
10,500
Name:
Washington State University Vancouver
City:
Vancouver
State:
WA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Vancouver provides quality healthcare, including two major hospitals offering emergency services and a physician availability of 2.5 per 1,000 residents. Over 92% of locals have health insurance, reflecting strong coverage and access to medical care. The city's healthcare index signals a reliable and comprehensive system for residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center
Address:
400 NE Mother Joseph Pl, Vancouver, WA 98664
Phone:
(360) 514-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center
Address:
2211 NE 139th St, Vancouver, WA 98686
Phone:
(360) 487-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Vancouver, WA?
The Vancouver housing market features a median home price of $429,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,570. Just over half of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a low foreclosure rate and steady home appreciation. The market offers a mix of new construction and established neighborhoods, catering to both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$429,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,570
Owner Occupied Rate:
51.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vancouver residents are served by the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located on NE 51st Circle. The DMV provides a range of licensing and vehicle services, with information readily available online or by phone. This ensures easy access to essential transportation-related needs for locals.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
11018 NE 51st Cir, Vancouver, WA 98682
Phone:
1-360-902-3900
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.