Vancouver, Washington sits on the north bank of the Columbia River directly across from Portland, Oregon. The Pacific Coast is less than 90 miles to the west. The Cascade Mountain Range rises on the east. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and Mt. Hood are less than two hours away. The spectacular Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area lies 30 minutes to the east. Vancouver combines the excitement of a major metropolitan area with small-town charm and abundant recreational opportunities. Vancouver is the county seat of Clark County.

Recreation and sports programs for residents of all ages, nearly 7,000 acres of parkland, over 44 miles of trails, and facilities including pools, a tennis/racquetball center, and community centers.

Neighborhood Associations in Vancouver have been officially recognized since 1975. The city has increased opportunities for citizen involvement over the years and built strong partnerships between city hall and the community through recognized neighborhood associations. In 1990 there were 14 recognized neighborhood associations; today there are 63 officially recognized associations.

Over 40 miles of river frontage set the tone for a community which values recreation and leisure as well as a vibrant, well-balanced economy.

The Pacific Ocean and its expansive beaches are a quick 90 miles to the west. The startling beauty of Mount St. Helens, the challenging ski slopes of Mt. Hood, and the scenic Mt. Adams Recreation Area are less than an hour's drive away.

From its long and colorful history, Vancouver boasts these many special distinctions: Headquarters of Hudson's Bay Company (established 1825) - Oldest permanent non-native settlement in Pacific Northwest (1825) - Oldest living apple tree in Pacific Northwest (planted 1826) - First sawmill in Pacific Northwest (1827) - Oldest public square in Pacific Northwest (Esther Short Park, 1855)

Regional and corporate headquarters, high-tech manufacturing, traditional industry and small businesses work together here enjoying Clark County's mix of urban density and wide open spaces. Some of Vancouver/Clark County's top employers include Hewlett-Packard, Sharp Microelectronics, Georgia-Pacific.

Housing Cost

Estimated median house or condo value in 2007: $249,600

Demographics

Population in July 2007: 161,436. Vancouver covers 42.8 square miles. It sits at an elevation of 150 feet above sea level.

Area code: 360

Weather

Vancouver, WA climate is mild during summer when temperatures tend to be in the 60's and cold during winter when temperatures tend to be in the 40's.

The warmest month of the year is August with an average maximum temperature of 78.10 degrees Fahrenheit, while the coldest month of the year is January with an average minimum temperature of 32.40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Temperature variations between night and day tend to be moderate during summer with a difference that can reach 25 degrees Fahrenheit, and fairly limited during winter with an average difference of 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

The annual average precipitation at Vancouver is 41.92 Inches. Winter months tend to be wetter than summer months. The wettest month of the year is December with an average rainfall of 6.38 Inches.

Information provided by idcide.com and city data.com