Vancouver Washington is the fourth-largest city in the state with a population of nearly 170000. It is located on the north bank of the Columbia River and minutes from downtown Portland. Vancouver has been nationally recognized for its livability. In fact, there is a famous journal entry from explorers Lewis & Clark, Vancouver is the only desired situation for our settlement west of the Rocky Mountains.”
With no state income tax, outdoor recreation, downtown area and historic attractions residents will agree it is one of the best places to live. Residents enjoy all the benefits of the Portland area with a lower cost of living.
After a 15-year redevelopment of downtown, the city will further be enhanced thanks to planned revitalization projects. The waterfront area will provide urban housing options, green spaces, shops, restaurants and office space. The work will enable access to 35 acres along the Columbia River waterfront. This area has been blocked for over 100 years. Esther Short Park is host to a popular farmers market with over 250 vendors from April – October. The farmers market is the biggest visitor attraction in Southwest Washington. Additionally, it is the second largest farmers market in the state. Just north of downtown is Uptown Village, a unique vibrant retail district that provides residents and visitors with urban shopping paired with small town charm.
Public Schools
The Vancouver Public Schools district covers most of West Vancouver and has 7 high schools, 6 middle schools and 23 elementary schools. The Evergreen School District covers most of the east side and has 7 high schools, 6 middle schools and 20 elementary schools.
Vancouver Washington can sometimes be confused with the Canadian city. As a result, residents in the Pacific Northwest distinguish between the two cities. The Canadian city is referred to as “Vancouver B.C.”. And the United States city as “Vancouver Washington”. Every year Vancouver Washington hosts some of the largest fireworks displays this side of the Mississippi at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.
City of Vancouver: 360-487-8448 www.cityofvancouver.us
Chamber of Commerce: 360-694-2588 www.vancouverusa.com
