5 Things You Need To Know Before You Move To Vancouver Washington

Vancouver, Washington is a beautiful place to live, work, and raise a family. It offers a lot of benefits for people looking for a change in scenery or a fresh start. The area is known for its natural beauty, diverse population, and thriving economy. If you're considering moving to Vancouver, Washington, there are five key things you should know before making the move.

1. Vancouver, Washington's Location and Population Vancouver is located in Clark County in Southwest Washington. It is the fourth-largest metropolitan city in the state, behind Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane. The area is home to around 450,000 people, making it a mid-sized city with plenty of opportunities to meet new people, make friends, and connect with the community.

2. Diverse Culture and Activities Vancouver, Washington is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in its food, festivals, art, and activities. The area has a diverse population, and with that comes a rich array of cultural experiences to enjoy. There are plenty of food options, from authentic Mexican, Chinese, and Japanese cuisine to classic American diners, cafes, and bistros. The area is also home to many festivals and events, including the Vancouver Wine and Jazz Festival, the Vancouver Brewfest, and the Clark County Fair.

3. Mild Climate The climate in Vancouver, Washington, is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from 40 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. While there are some days below freezing and some days above 90, the area offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy every temperature. In the winter, you can hit the mountains for snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and sledding. In the summer, you can enjoy the river, lake, or take a short drive to the Pacific Ocean for a refreshing swim.

4. Affordable Home Prices While home prices in Vancouver, Washington, may be higher than in some other areas, they are still relatively affordable. Over the last three years, there has been great price appreciation in the housing market, with an average four-bed, two-bath home of 2,000 square feet costing around $583,000 in 2022. This is much lower than other major metropolitan areas, making Vancouver a great place to buy a home.

5. Proximity to Portland Many people wonder how close Vancouver is to Portland. The answer is that it's extremely close. Vancouver is a suburb of Portland, but it's on the Washington side of the Columbia River. There are two major interstates, I-5 and I-205, that connect the two states. You can get to the Portland International Airport in about 20 minutes from just about anywhere in Vancouver. Portland offers a diverse range of activities, from concerts to dining out and shopping, so you get the benefits of living in small Vancouver and the large city of Portland.

In conclusion, Vancouver, Washington, offers a lot of benefits for people looking for a new place to live. The area is known for its natural beauty, diverse population, mild climate, affordable home prices, and proximity to Portland. If you're thinking about moving to Vancouver, make sure to consider these five key things. It's a great place to call home, and you won't regret making the move.