Along the north bank of the Columbia River, Vancouver, Washington combines small-city charm with outdoor recreation opportunities. This historic city of nearly 200,000 residents features a revitalized downtown area centered around Esther Short Park and the Vancouver Waterfront development. Housing includes waterfront apartments, established neighborhood rentals, and historic homes, with current rental rates averaging $1,540 for one-bedroom apartments and $1,718 for two-bedroom units. The rental market has remained stable, with changes ranging from a 1% increase for one-bedroom units to a 1.7% increase for three-bedroom homes over the past year.
The city offers numerous recreational opportunities, from the Columbia River Waterfront Renaissance Trail to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Established in 1825 as a fur-trading outpost, Vancouver preserves its history while embracing modern development.