5 Reasons why Vancouver, WA is perfect for relocating families and retirees
If you're considering relocating to the Pacific Northwest, look no further than Vancouver, Washington. Located just across the Columbia river from Portland, Oregon, Vancouver and SW Washington offer the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city conveniences.
With large investments in development, outdoor activities and scenic areas, great schools,, and a growing “foodie” scene, it’s no wonder that Vancouver ranks among the best places to live in the US.
Here’s why Vancouver, WA should be at the top of your relocation list:
1) A Family-Friendly Community with a Large Selection of Great Schools
Clark County offers a broad range of schools and educational programs for any learning style. Choose from a large variety of preschools, private schools, dual-language programs, colleges, and a robust public school system including the award winning Camas school district.
Beyond the schools, the city offers many kid-friendly activities. Parks, nature trails, and family-oriented festivals are staples of the community. You’ll also find several indoor play spaces including Big Al’s bowling, SkyZone trampoline park, Urban Air Adventure Park, Firstenburg Community Center, Ft. Vancouver Libraries, and many more options to keep kids busy during the rainy season.
2) Outdoor Recreation and Natural Beauty
The Pacific NW is renowned for its natural beauty. From the Columbia River Gorge, waterfalls, and mountains to the East to the beautiful (if somewhat chilly) beaches to the West, there are countless stunning landscapes to explore.
Closer to home, Vancouver offers rivers, lakes, parks and playgrounds all over the city, including over 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking and running. Enjoy kayaking and paddle boarding at Vancouver Lake or Lacamas Lake, or watch the sunset over the Columbia River while you stroll down Waterfront Park.
3) Retirement Friendly Tax Advantages and Healthcare Access
When planning for retirement, key considerations often include affordability, access to quality healthcare, and vibrant community options.
One of the biggest advantages of retiring in Vancouver is Washington’s tax-friendly policies - no state income tax, no taxes on Social Security benefits, and no state tax on IRA or 401(k) distributions.
Note: If you're not quite ready to retire, you must live AND work in Washington to get the income tax benefits. People who work from home or commute within Clark Co. can also benefit from lower housing costs (compared to Portland) in the growing suburban areas.
In addition to financial benefits, Vancouver offers exceptional healthcare access. With highly regarded medical facilities like PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente, Legacy Salmon Creek, and the Vancouver Clinic, retirees can enjoy top-tier care close to home.
4) Proximity to Portland
Living in Vancouver, WA, offers the advantage of being just minutes from Portland, OR, and Portland International Airport (PDX). Although commuting across the 205 and I-5 bridges is challenging (traffic can be awful in the morning and afternoon rush hours), Vancouver residents benefit from the close proximity of Portland’s vibrant food and drink culture, walkable neighborhoods, and thriving art, music, and cultural scenes.
Many people also take advantage of Oregon’s sales tax-free shopping, maximizing the financial benefits of both states.
5) Vibrant Downtown, Waterfront and East Side Developments
Vancouver’s waterfront and downtown have undergone an impressive revitalization, transforming the area into a destination for both locals and visitors. Fueled by a $1.5 billion development, this vibrant district now boasts luxury residential spaces, modern office spaces, boutique retail, acclaimed wine bars, and upscale dining—all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Columbia River. At the heart of it all is a scenic 7-acre park, perfect for waterfront strolls and outdoor gatherings.
Meanwhile, East Vancouver is poised for its own exciting evolution with The Vic, a dynamic mixed-use development designed to blend office, retail, residential, and community spaces around a bustling central hub. As growth continues, Vancouver is cementing its reputation as a thriving, modern city with something for everyone.
No matter your stage in life - raising a family, embracing the single life, or heading into your retirement years - Vancouver, Washington, offers the perfect blend of suburban quiet, natural beauty, downtown shops and restaurants, and community charm. With top-rated schools, endless outdoor adventures, and easy access to Portland, this gem of the Pacific NW truly has something for everyone.
If you're ready to discover all that Vancouver and SW Washington have to offer, our real estate experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
Many of our agents are dual-licensed in both Oregon and Washington, ensuring a seamless home-buying experience tailored to your needs. From your first showing to move-in day, we’ll make your relocation to the Pacific NW smooth and stress-free.
Welcome to the ‘Couve!
