What's the Cost of Living in Vancouver, WA?

Are you moving to Vancouver, WA, and want to know the cost of living? Let's take a look at the average cost of living, income, real estate, food, transportation, taxes, and other expenses in Vancouver. 

If you're seeking a stunning, family-oriented, and secure city, Vancouver could be the perfect fit for you. With breathtaking views of majestic mountains, a live volcano, and a vast temperate forest, Vancouver is a one-of-a-kind city. Additionally, you'll become one of the 192,169 residents who relish the affordable cost of living, excellent real estate, and many other amenities.

As you search for your next home, it is extremely important to remember how different the cost of living can be from city to city. No city is alike, and the same goes for the average prices of your everyday expenses. There are many reasons why Vancouver is one of the best cities in Washington. 

It is important to remember that the overall cost of living can vary based on a plethora of expenses, such as groceries, transportation, healthcare, and taxes. Lucky for you, the state of Washington has no state income tax, and an overall low cost of living. This will end up saving you a lot of money in the long run. There are many things you should know before moving to Washington, and you should absolutely research as much as you can. 

On top of the breathtaking landscape, Vancouver is known for its fun-filled bars, delicious restaurants, an abundance of parks, and many other fun activities for the whole family. No matter if you are a family, young professional, or retiree, you are bound to find the most perfect home here in Vancouver. But first, let's take a look at how much exactly it is going to cost you. 

Here is all you need to know about the cost of living in Vancouver

Cost of Living

Vancouver's cost of living is 4% higher than the national average, although several other expenses are lower. For example, housing is 2% lower, utilities are 5% lower, groceries are 6% higher, and transportation is 8% higher.

The overall cost of living will give you a better idea of how much you will need to make each year and how much you are likely to spend. It is important to note that these percentages may not translate to exactly how much you will be spending. Many expenses can vary based on your values, lifestyle, needs, and more. 

Compared to other large cities like Seattle, the cost of living in Vancouver is 30.8% lower, and housing is 53.4% lower. This is a huge reason why many people are choosing to live in Vancouver rather than other Washington cities. Try comparing these costs to other Washington cities by looking at the cost of living in Seattle, Spokane, or Bellevue.

Of course, on top of the amazing natural beauty and plethora of things to do. Check out the cost of living in Washington state as well for a better understanding of costs in the state. 

Below are some common cost of living aspects according to Payscale. 

Keep in mind that the cost of living includes many factors like transportation, food, utilities, and all everyday expenses. Fortunately, the cost of living in Vancouver is not much higher than the national average. Meaning you won't be spending too much more than the average person in the United States. 

Income

The average salary in Vancouver is around $52,005 per year or $25 an hour. Of course, salaries will vary based on your occupation, experience, and many other factors. There is a diverse range of job opportunities available in Vancouver. However, the most sought-after roles include Office Manager, Registered Nurse, and Certified Nurse Assistant. These positions typically offer an hourly wage ranging from $14.96 to $37.31.

The most popular employers in Vancouver are PeaceHealth, ABM Industries, and SEH America. Vancouver is also a substantial tourist spot, which brings in many people from all over the country and creates jobs in the service and tourist industry. 

Moving anywhere means finding a reliable job; in Vancouver, you will find various employment options that can support your budget and lifestyle. If you are having a hard time finding the best job for you, there are many surrounding cities that may have the perfect opportunity for you. 

Real Estate

On average, housing in Vancouver is lower than the national average and various other cities in Washington. The median house price is around $443,698, and the median home age of 33 years old. This means that the majority of homes are newer, although about 46.9% of residents in Vancouver rent their homes.

There are many amazing single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and more available to you at an affordable price. The median rent price is around $1,348 per month, which is extremely reasonable for a larger city.

Keep in mind that the real estate market is subject to change and that prices and listings will vary. If you are moving to Vancouver, working with an experienced real estate agent is recommended, and luckily, we have many who can help you along the way. 

There are many amazing neighborhoods here in Vancouver that can provide you with everything you could possibly need, from gated communities to suburbs to apartments downtown. You can ensure that you will find the perfect home for you here in Vancouver at the most affordable price.

Food

Grocery and food costs can often be an overlooked expense but can really add up each month depending on your lifestyle and family size. It is important to understand the average amount you will be spending on food in the city you plan on moving to. 

Grocery prices will also vary greatly depending on where you shop. In Vancouver, there are many fun and affordable farmers' markets where you can find fresh foods and ingredients while supporting your fellow residents. 

Here are the average prices of common grocery items according to Payscale

Check out some of the local favorite restaurants below:

• Los Portillos Mexican Restaurant: Discover amazing Mexican cuisine just minutes away from your home at this local favorite.
• Wagaya Sushi & Grill: You will quickly fall in love with this restaurant once you taste their amazing dishes, such as the Seared Salmon and Chicken Teriyaki Bento.
• Coast to Coast Fish House: Enjoy a variety of gluten-free seafood dishes, ranging from the West Coast to the East Coast, each expertly prepared with homemade sauces.
• Tiny Tasties: Looking for a sweet treat? Come by and try these delicious homemade desserts, handcrafted beverages, and light meals, all located conveniently close to your new neighborhood. The appetizers are also a must-try.

Transportation

Similar to many other larger cities, Vancouver does have pricier transportation costs, just 8% higher than the national average. This percentage includes bus fares and gas prices. The average gas price is usually around $3.67 per gallon, although this may not equate to how much you will be spending because gas prices across the country can vary greatly depending on the time of year and other factors. 

Traveling to and from Vancouver is made easier with the Portland International Airport. It takes about 20 minutes by car and 25 minutes by train to travel to the airport from most places in Vancouver. 

The city makes transportation easier by offering public transportation options such as the C-TRAN, which makes stops all around the city. You can also choose to own a car or take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to travel. In addition to these choices, the downtown region is highly walkable, making it a desirable location.

Taxes

The sales tax rate in Vancouver is 8.7%, totaling 6.5% Washington state sales tax and 2.2% Vancouver tax. This is a bit higher than most sales tax rates in other large cities around the country. 

It's worth noting that Washington doesn't have a personal income tax, but the state's sales taxes are some of the highest in the country. When it comes to property taxes, Washington is on par with other states in terms of the amount charged.

When evaluating the cost of living in a new area, it's crucial to consider taxes, as they can significantly increase the overall cost. Taking everything into account will help you accurately assess the expenses. Keep in mind that depending on your occupation and lifestyle, it is possible that you might come across additional taxes, such as vehicle registration fees, business taxes, and others.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Vancouver is 10% higher than the national average. Although, it is 9% lower than the state average. These percentages are based on the prices of family doctor visits and specialized services such as optometry. 

Luckily, there are many top-rated hospitals in the Vancouver area, like PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, Northwest med center, and Vancouver VA Medical Center. You will have the advantage of accessing one of the best hospitals in the world and a plethora of lucrative job openings in the medical field.

It is important to remember that healthcare costs will depend on where you go, the specialized service you need, and the type of insurance plan you have. 

Here are some of the average prices for common doctor visits according to Payscale

FAQ: Cost of living in Vancouver, WA

Is Vancouver, Washington, expensive to live in?

Overall, the cost of living is 10% cheaper in Vancouver compared to the state average and 4% more than the national average. However, many other expenses like housing and utilities are lower than the national average. 

What is a good salary in Vancouver, WA?

Salaries range greatly in any city around the country. In Vancouver, the average annual salary is $52,005, which is a good amount to earn in order to live comfortably in the city.

Is moving to Vancouver, WA, a good idea?

If you are debating moving to Vancouver, expect to be overwhelmed with reasons as to why this city is the perfect place to move to. It has a low cost of living, beautiful homes, amazing food, plenty of parks, and of course, amazing natural beauty. 

Does Vancouver, Washington, have an income tax?

No, the whole state of Washington has no income tax. 

Is it cheaper to live in Vancouver or Portland?

Both cities do have a similar cost of living, but Vancouver is typically more affordable as Portland is a much bigger city, and everyday expenses can be more expensive. 

Moving to Vancouver - Final Thoughts

Overall, Vancouver is a fabulous city with countless parks, restaurants, affordable neighborhoods, and a low cost of living. This lively city is an ideal destination for families and young adults alike. No matter what you are looking for in a city, Vancouver has it all, and you'll absolutely love it. Make sure you know everything you can about the city before you move. 

Always remember that the average cost of living is just an average and does not necessarily equate to how much you will spend in a particular city. It all depends on many other factors. Fortunately, Vancouver has many options to help you save money on expenses like farmers' markets, public transportation, and no state sales tax.

Washington has many special cities and towns to pick from, like Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane. Before settling on a city, it's crucial to gather as much information as possible. This is especially true when considering a move to Seattle, which is a major metropolitan area. There are numerous essential factors to take into account. 

Whether you decide to move to Vancouver for its stunning scenery, a job opportunity, or a fresh start, our team at UpHomes is dedicated to helping you find the home of your dreams, and there are many beautiful homes around the country in amazing places like Cleveland. If you are ready to find that perfect home, don't hesitate to contact one of our helpful Realty Specialists or check out some of the amazing homes for sale in Washington.