Vancouver Area Map

Description:
This map shows cities, towns, rivers, lakes, peaks, highways, main roads, secondary roads, airports, and parks in Vancouver Area.

About Vancouver Area (Washington)

Vancouver is the fourth-largest city in Washington State and the county seat of Clark County. Located on the north bank of the Columbia River directly across from Portland, Oregon, Vancouver had a population of approximately 200,000 as of 2024, with the greater metropolitan area exceeding 500,000 residents.

The area was originally inhabited by Chinookan peoples for thousands of years before European contact. Hudson's Bay Company established Fort Vancouver in 1825. The City of Vancouver was incorporated on January 23, 1857. Early economic development centered on timber, agriculture, and shipping.

The local economy is diversified with major employers including PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, the Evergreen School District, Portland-Vancouver metro employers, and various manufacturing firms. The area has experienced significant population growth, particularly since the 1980s, driven by more affordable housing compared to Portland and no state income tax in Washington.

Clark County surrounds Vancouver and includes several other incorporated cities such as Camas, Washougal, Battle Ground, Ridgefield, and La Center. The region features varied geography from the Columbia River lowlands to the foothills of the Cascade Range. Climate is characterized as oceanic with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Major transportation corridors include Interstate 5, Interstate 205, State Route 14, and State Route 500.