Vancouver, WA Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Vancouver, WA: What You Need to Know

Vancouver is located in southwestern Washington State, just nine miles from Portland, Oregon. It’s the seat of Clark County and a popular Portland suburb.

Job Opportunities

Vancouver’s strategic location makes it an important part of the metro area that includes Portland and Hillsboro in Oregon. The region boasts of robust technology, health care, and manufacturing industries. In Vancouver itself, major employers include nLight Inc. (semiconductor fiber lasers), Banfield Pet Hospital, Zoominfo (intelligence platforms), and Nautilus Inc. (fitness equipment). On the Oregon side, top companies include Intel, Nike Inc., Daimler Trucks North America, and Adidas North America.

Things to Do in Vancouver

History buffs love the 350-acre Fort Vancouver. Built in 1825, the fort began as a fur trading post and the headquarters of the Hudson's Bay Company's Columbia Department. The original fort burned down in 1866, but you can visit the reconstructed building. The site also includes the U.S. Army's Vancouver Barracks and Pearson Air Museum. The Waterfront Renaissance Trail is a great place for biking, jogging, rollerblading, and enjoying the view of the Columbia River. The five-mile trail connects Esther Short Park in downtown Vancouver with Wintler Community Park. There are shops and restaurants along the way.

What is Downtown Vancouver Like?

Downtown is at the heart of Vancouver, with a beautiful mix of historic and modern buildings. There’s public art on almost every corner, and plenty of coffee shops, breweries, vintage boutiques, and stores to choose from. The historic Kiggins Theatre presents films, comedy shows, theater performances, and other events. The Esther Short Park hosts events throughout the year. It’s the site of the Vancouver Farmers Market on weekends, from March to October. Looking for a home close to downtown? Check out Shumway, Fisher’s Creek, and Cascade Highlands.

Is it Cheaper to Live in Vancouver or Portland?

Vancouver (population: 184,463), just across the Columbia River from Portland, is a popular bedroom community because it’s relatively cheaper than Portland. Vancouver’s cost of living rate and housing costs are 17.4% and 19.5% higher than the national average. The median gross rent is $1,219. On the bright side, food cost is 4.9% lower than the national average.

Is There Public Transportation in Vancouver?

C-TRAN offers public transportation throughout Clark County, including Vancouver. Bus service includes 21 routes operating in Clark County, one bus rapid transit system called the Vine, seven Express commuter routes into downtown Portland, four limited routes with service to downtown Vancouver and MAX Light Rail, and three reservation-based Connector routes serving Camas, Ridgefield, and La Center in Washington State.