20 Pros and Cons of Living in Vancouver, WA

It depends on your preferences for weather and activities.

Vancouver has a temperate climate with distinct seasons.

Here’s a brief overview of whether the weather:

• Summer (June to August): This is the most popular time to visit as the weather is generally warm and dry. Temps range from the mid-60s to the mid-70s. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, exploring parks, and enjoying festivals.
• Fall (September to November): Fall brings cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s. The fall foliage can be beautiful, making it a pleasant time to visit if you enjoy autumn colors—rainfall increases in the later months.
• Winter (December to February): Winters are cool and can be wet. Ah, heck, they will be wet. Average temperatures range from the mid-30s to the mid-40s. Snow is infrequent but possible.
• Spring (March to May): Spring sees a gradual warming up, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s. Spring is a lovely time for blooming flowers and budding trees. Rainfall is still coming down, but generally less than in the winter months.

Keep in mind that the weather can vary, and unexpected changes can occur. And probably will.

Vancouver, WA, may not be as prominently featured in popular culture as its neighboring city, Vancouver, British Columbia, which is more widely recognized.

Even Portland, Oregon, gets more press.

It’s like being the shy younger sister of the Homecoming Queen.

We get it.

However, there are instances where Vancouver, WA, is mentioned or featured as the star you are, part of the broader Pacific Northwest cultural and geographical landscape.

Shining brightly, in that quirky NW charming type of way.

References are celebrated in fiction, film, and music.

A few examples:

• The “Twilight” series by Stephenie Meyer: The town of Forks, Washington is fictional, yet author Stephenie Meyer mentions other Washington towns, including Vancouver.
• “Paranoid Park” (2007): Set in and around Portland, Oregon, this film by the genius director Gus Van Sant has scenes shot in Vancouver, Washington.
• “Grimm” (2011–2017): This fantasy crime drama series is set/filmed in Portland, Oregon, and its environs, including Vancouver, WA.

Vancouver, WA, is great for family.

Here are some family-friendly spots.

• Esther Short Park: This downtown park is excellent for family outings. It features a playground, a water feature in the summer, open spaces for picnics or games, and hosts events and festivals.
• Fort Vancouver National Historic Site: The reconstructed fort offers informative exhibits, costumed interpreters, and special events.
• Pearson Field and Pearson Field Education Center: Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy Pearson Field, one of the oldest continually operating airfields in the U.S.
• Columbia Springs: A nature sanctuary with walking trails. Families can explore the wetlands, visit the fish hatchery, and attend educational programs.
• Waterfront Renaissance Trail: offering scenic views, parks, and opportunities for outdoor recreation, take a stroll or bike ride along the Waterfront Renaissance Trail, which runs along the Columbia River.
• Clark County Historical Museum: The museum often features exhibits and events that are fun and fine for families.
• Vancouver Community Library: A fantastic and family-friendly library with a dedicated children’s area.
• Firstenburg Community Center: Rec for everyone, including swimming pools, fitness classes, and a climbing wall.
• Clark County Fairgrounds: Depending on the time of year, the Clark County Fairgrounds host events, including the annual Clark County Fair.

Check the schedule for family-friendly activities, performances, and exhibits.

Great question!

While time and tide change, these are some samples and examples of events the cities put on in the past.

Check the local arts calendar for updates.

• Couve Clover Run: This annual event is held around St. Patrick’s Day. Participants often dress in green, and the run involves different race lengths.
• Vancouver Wine & Jazz Festival: Usually held in the summer, this festival features live jazz performances, wine tastings, and arts and crafts in Esther Short Park.
• Independence Day at Fort Vancouver: Fort Vancouver National Historic Site hosts a large celebration with fireworks, music, and other festivities.
• Clark County Fair: While not specific to Vancouver, the Clark County Fair is a significant annual event held in the nearby city of Ridgefield. It includes carnival rides, live entertainment, exhibits, and more.
• Recycled Arts Festival: This festival focuses on sustainable and recycled art. It typically occurs in Esther Short Park and features artists who create unique pieces from recycled materials.

Like many cities in the Pacific Northwest, the food culture in the region often emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Restaurants in Vancouver may offer a mix of Pacific Northwest cuisine, seafood, farm-to-table dining, and diverse international options.

Hit the local food scene and uncover unique specialties.

Check out local restaurants, cafés, and farmers’ markets.

Local favorites can include dishes that highlight the region’s flavors, such as seafood, berries, and other fresh produce.

And did we mention the berries?