Vancouver, WA
Vancouver is a city in the southwestern part of the state of Washington, located on the north bank of the Columbia River. The city is a part of the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area and is home to a diverse population of over 184,000 people. Vancouver is known for its natural beauty, with numerous parks and trails that offer recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. The city has a thriving downtown area with a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, including the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, which performs at the beautiful and historic 1918 Kiggins Theatre. Vancouver is also home to the Vancouver Waterfront, a vibrant mixed-use development that includes restaurants, shops, and public spaces along the Columbia River. The city is also home to Washington State University Vancouver, which offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields.
STATISTICS
INDICATORS
Region
Pacific Northwest
Population (2020)
191,071
The chart below displays this city's performance across all indicators vs. averages for the 25 cities
% Non-White Population
23.5
Median Income (2020)
$63,617
Average Home Value (2022)
$484,933
Average Annual Cost of Living
$27,355
Housing, transportation and energy costs as a percent of median income
Averages
City Data
CHALLENGES
Traffic Congestion: Like many cities in the Pacific Northwest, Vancouver is facing growing traffic congestion, particularly on its major highways and bridges.
Housing Affordability: Vancouver has experienced a sharp increase in housing prices in recent years, making it difficult for many residents to find affordable housing.
Homelessness: Vancouver, like many cities across the country, is grappling with a growing homelessness crisis. The city has taken steps to address the issue, but more needs to be done.
Environmental Issues: Vancouver is facing a range of environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, waste management, and climate change.
Infrastructure Needs: As the city continues to grow, there is a need for investment in new infrastructure, including roads, bridges, public transportation, and other essential services.
BRIGHT SPOTS
Location: Vancouver is located in the Pacific Northwest, just across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including Mount St. Helens and the Columbia River Gorge.
Strong Economy: Vancouver is home to a diverse range of industries, including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and technology. Major employers in the area include Hewlett-Packard, PeaceHealth, and the Vancouver School District.
Culture and Arts: Vancouver has a vibrant arts scene, with many galleries, theaters, and cultural events throughout the year. The city is also home to the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and the Clark County Historical Museum.
Parks and Recreation: Vancouver has an extensive park system, including over 90 parks and natural areas, with miles of hiking and biking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds. The city is also home to the popular Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.
Education: Vancouver has a strong education system, with many excellent public and private schools, including Washington State University Vancouver and Clark College.