7 Things to Know BEFORE Moving to Vancouver, WA

Are you moving to Vancouver, WA, and want to learn more about the area? Here are seven things to know about living in Vancouver.

There are endless reasons to move to Vancouver, Washington. The first and most important thing to note is the absolutely breathtaking scenery that you can't find anywhere else in the country. From gorgeous mountains to an active volcano to its unique temperate forest, there really is no place like it. On top of the scenery, the city has a low cost of living, food to die for, prime real estate, a low crime rate, and so much more. 

Moving to Vancouver or anywhere else in Washington is a significant life event that can be both exciting and stressful. It can signify a change of pace, the start of a new job, or the beginning of retirement. However, the process can also feel overwhelming. The most important thing to do is research and find out everything you can about the area before you move. 

Many people are moving to Vancouver for its amazing job market, low cost of living, fun things to do, and more. You will love living in Vancouver, and we are so happy to give you all the information you need about the city. Overall, Washington is a great state to move to, and there are many important things to know before moving to Washington.

Here are seven things to know before you move to Vancouver

Cost of Living

Vancouver's overall cost of living is 4% higher than the national average. However, it is essential to remember that this percentage can vary based on factors such as your career, lifestyle, number of people in your home, and much more. Your daily expenses are expected to be similar to the national average. However, housing expenses are 2% lower, utility expenses are 5% lower, grocery expenses are 6% higher, and transportation expenses like bus fares and gas prices are 8% higher than the national average.

Cost of living prices can vary from state to state and city to city. Vancouver is much more affordable compared to other cities like Bellevue, where the cost of living is 68% higher than the national average. Check out how much the cost of living in Washington is overall. 

Although residents tend to earn less annually compared to the national average, the average annual salary in Vancouver is $52,005, which equates to about $25.00 an hour. Of course, this is moderate and will highly depend on your occupation, experience, and many other factors. You will save a great deal of money with lower housing and utility prices here in Vancouver.

The cost of living across Washington is fairly similar; check out the cost of living in Spokane and Seattle to get an even better idea of how much you will be spending on average.

Here are some more average prices on various cost-of-living items

*Data Sourced from PayScale

Real Estate

Vancouver has many affordable housing options throughout the city. Depending on what you are looking for in a home, prices can vary greatly, with the median home cost of $473,000. Although this may be pricier for most people, don't worry because there are still many options for renting in Vancouver, as renters make up 46.9% of the Vancouver population. The average rent price per month is around $1,710. 

As you search for that perfect home, it is essential to remember that these averages may not accurately reflect how much you will be paying for housing. Many factors come into play, like the size of your home, location, and number of people in the house. Nevertheless, there are many affordable options if you are searching for a single-family home, condo, or townhome.

The neighborhoods are incredible; on top of the housing, you can find a beautiful home with the wonderful view. You will find the perfect home if you're looking for a place downtown, in the mountains, or in the suburbs. 

Dining

Vancouver is known for its mouthwatering cuisine, with North West favorites like Candied salmon, West Coast oysters, Spot prawns, Japadog, Dungeness crab, and more. Just based on its close proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the city has amazing seafood, but if you are looking for something different, then there are still many excellent restaurants and dishes that you will love. 

Check out these local favorite restaurants in Vancouver, WA:

Elements Restaurant: Enjoy elevated American cuisine created using locally-sourced ingredients and European cooking techniques, all within a bright and cheerful atmosphere.

Beaches Restaurant & Bar: This restaurant offers breathtaking views, exceptional food and drinks, and a lively and enjoyable atmosphere on the water.

The Smokin' Oak Barbeque Restaurant, Bar & Catering: Known as a super laid-back Texas-style BBQ place, this restaurant offers a great atmosphere, a selection of craft beers, and hearty sides.

13 Coins: This high-end restaurant serves delicious Italian and American dishes and is perfect for celebrations, date nights, or a fun night out.

Jubilee Tea House: For the perfect afternoon coffee, tea, and small meal, you can't go wrong with Jubilee. Enjoy an amazing time with friends or family in this intimate and bright tea house. 

Weather

Washington as a whole is known for its year-round mild climate, with a lot of rain, and Vancouver is no different. The summer months are known to have relatively warm days with an average of upper 70s and winter temperatures that rarely dip below freezing. There are, of course, a few hotter summer days and colder winter nights, but for the most part, the weather stays in this range. 

Depending on what you're looking for, there are many great times to visit the city. If you like the warm summer, early July to late August is perfect. The summer months are usually short, warm, dry, and mostly clear. In contrast, the winters are cold, wet, and overcast. On average, throughout the year, the temperature varies between 36°F and 83°F.

Job Market

Vancouver has seen a 0.9% job market increase over the last year and is predicted to grow 38.8% over the next ten years. This is higher than the national average of 33.5%. The top employers in the area are typically in healthcare, education, hospitality, tech, and financial services. Meaning you can find the majority of high-paying jobs in these areas. On top of this, as a highly-sought after vacation spot, there are many more jobs in the tourism and service industry. 

Vancouver, with a population of 192,169, currently has an unemployment rate of 3.10%, which is a significant drop from last year's rate of 4.80%. This is also much lower than the national average of 3.7% and the state average of 3.80%. Overall, you have a significant chance of finding the perfect job for your goals, lifestyle, and budget here in Vancouver.

Crime Rates

Vancouver does have a higher crime rate compared to the national average. Although, the violent crime rate is 21.6, which is slightly lower than the US average of 22.7 per 100,000 people. Overall, Vancouver is known as a safe city. In December 2022, it was considered the 58th safest city in the country. 

Vancouver is renowned for having a lower crime rate than its neighboring cities, such as Seattle and Tacoma. Ensuring one's safety is crucial when relocating to a new place, and Vancouver offers a secure environment. You can rest assured that you will be safe here.

Remember that many areas have a higher crime rate than the national average but are still very safe and comfortable places to live. Vancouver is one of the best places in all of Washington to live in, and you are sure to fall in love with the area, people, and, most importantly, the phenomenal scenery. 

Activities

As you can probably tell from any pictures of Vancouver, there are many amazing things to do out on the mountains, waterfront, or in the beautiful forest. With biking around, outdoor parks, historical sites, hanging out at the waterfront, hiking the Moulton Falls, or just taking in the stunning scenery, you'll never run out of fun things to do outside in Vancouver.

On top of all the activities in the beautiful nature, there are some amazing bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and shops in the downtown area. With both man-made and natural attractions, there is no limit to fun in Vancouver. You can be sure that you will have no trouble finding fun-filled activities here in Vancouver. 

Columbia River Waterfront Renaissance Trail: Take a walk down this five-mile-accessible scenic trail directly connecting to many shops, restaurants, and historical attractions. Enjoy the path by walking, biking, jogging, or rollerblading.

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site: As one of the first permanent settlements in the area, this 191-acre area is one of the most visited historical sites in all of Washington. 

Maryhill Winery: After opening, this large tasting room has become one of the most sought-after wineries in the area. You can lounge in the expansive patio or indoor space while you taste their award-winning wines with small plates.

Battle Ground Village: If you're looking for the best place to shop, dine, or explore, then this area is perfect for you. There are many top-rated restaurants, a used book store, businesses, and many townhomes and apartments for you to pick from.

Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise: Experience the most majestic views in all of Washington from the water. Travel along the river with a live tour guide at an affordable price. This is one of the best experiences for the whole family to do once you move to Vancouver. 

Pros and Cons of Living in Vancouver, WA

Pros

• No state income tax
• Warm summer weather
• Stunning Pacific Northwest beauty
• Many job opportunities
• Environmentally friendly
• Many opportunities to explore the breathtaking nature
• Known as a safe city

Cons

• Stormy weather
• High sales tax
• The home prices can be high
• The threat of natural disasters
• Slight rise in homelessness
• There is tons of traffic near big cities 

FAQ: Living in Vancouver, WA

Here are some commonly asked questions about living in Vancouver, Washington.

What is it like to live in Vancouver, WA?

Most of Washington is known to be pretty laid back, and Vancouver is no different. The city combines urban and suburban feel; most residents own their homes. Many families and young professionals are moving to the area for its remarkable landscape, restaurants, coffee shops, and more. 

What is Vancouver, WA, known for?

The city is known for its most prominent tourist attraction, For Vancouver. It is a family-friendly National Historic Site with a rebuilt 1800s fur-trading camp, a mid-1900s airstrip, and a stretch of restored 19th-century homes. 

What is the main industry in Vancouver, WA?

Healthcare holds the title of the largest employer, with over 12,500 employees in the city. Next is retail trade and then manufacturing. 

What makes Vancouver so special?

Along with the majority of Washington, Vancouver is highly unique for its picturesque setting. The city has unparalleled natural beauty, with the North Shore Mountains, an active volcano, and a temperate rainforest.

Is it better to live in Seattle or Vancouver?

It's hard to compare these two beautiful cities, but they both have pros and cons. Vancouver is known to have a prettier landscape and better food, but the nightlife and job market tend to be better in Seattle. No matter what you are looking for, you can't go wrong with either amazing city.

Moving to Vancouver, WA - Final Thoughts

Vancouver has so many outstanding qualities to offer you. It is important to learn as much as possible about a new area before deciding to move. We are glad we can be here for you to give you all the information you need about Vancouver. 

As you decide where to go next, we hope Vancouver is at the top of that list. However, many amazing cities in Washington are definitely worth checking out. Make sure to check out the other best places to live in Washington. There are many things to know before moving to any new state like New Mexico. 

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. 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.