Neighborhood Spotlight: Downtown Vancouver, WA
Welcome to our neighborhood spotlight series! In this post, we'll be exploring the lively downtown area of Vancouver, Washington, and highlighting three of its most popular residential neighborhoods: Arnada, Hough, and Lincoln. These neighborhoods offer a blend of city living and quaint charm, providing residents with a one-of-a-kind lifestyle. From charming cafes to bustling boutiques, there is always something to see and do in this dynamic part of town. Whether you're a current resident or a potential buyer, come with us as we delve into what makes these neighborhoods so unique.
Downtown Vancouver
Downtown Vancouver is an absolute gem of Clark County, WA. It has grown exponentially in recent years, adding on a stunning new waterfront pier, regular community events, exciting new business openings, and so much more. The downtown area also features some of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Clark County. With charming tree lined streets and unique architecture, the neighborhoods in Downtown Vancouver are perfect for those looking for a small-town feel with ready access to downtown shops and restaurants. Across all the neighborhoods that make up Downtown Vancouver, the average home sale price is $567,200 which is a nearly 14% increase from last year’s average. As these areas continue to grow, develop, and expand, prices are anticipated to continue increasing for the foreseeable future.
HISTORY
The downtown area of Vancouver, Washington plays a significant role in the city's rich historical legacy. The first European contact was by William Robert Broughton in 1792, but the county got its name from the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1806. This history is evident today in Esther Short Park and Fort Vancouver. Esther Short Park is the oldest public square in the state, and now a popular gathering place and home to the award-winning Vancouver Farmers Market. Fort Vancouver remains as a historic site and community space, and was once the vital fur trading post that the first permanent European settlement was established around in 1824.
SCHOOLS IN DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER
Downtown Vancouver is served by the Vancouver School District, with highly rated elementary, middle, and high schools in the area. Vancouver School of Arts and Academics is an award-winning magnet school for students interested in the arts and academics, located in the Shumway neighborhood within walking distance of many homes available for sale.
Arnada
Arnada is located right in the heart of it all, situated between Main Street and I5 in one of the most popular parts of Downtown Vancouver. Characterized by a blend of vintage homes and mature trees, Arnada provides a warm and inviting atmosphere to residents. The neighborhood's prime location is further enhanced by the nearby Arnada Neighborhood Park, which offers open green space, recreational opportunities, and community events. Additionally, the well-established bicycle routes along McLoughlin and F street provide easy access to both uptown and downtown areas. Arnada is also known for its convenient proximity to essential services, shopping, and entertainment, making it an attractive option for those who prefer to walk, bike, or use public transit for transportation.
Hough
Hop across Main Street from Arnada and you will find yourself in a similar, yet distinct neighborhood of Downtown Vancouver. The Hough neighborhood is a historic area located northwest of the downtown central business district in Vancouver, Washington. Characterized by a mix of early 20th-century architecture, including bungalows and four squares, as well as Victorian homes, the neighborhood also features smaller apartment complexes in the southern portion. In 2003, a large portion of Hough was listed on the Washington Historic Register as the largest collection of pre-World War II housing in Vancouver, reflecting its post-fur trading and pioneer history. With 57.5% of the housing units being owner-occupied, Hough offers its residents easy access to services and amenities through its proximity to downtown, community-scale commercial activity, and convenient transportation options such as walking, biking, or public transit. Other notable features include John Ball Park and Hough Elementary School for recreational activities, community gatherings, and entertainment.
Lincoln
The Lincoln neighborhood is a peaceful and picturesque area located north of Hough and Arnada in downtown Vancouver. Ideal for residents seeking a bit of extra space and a quieter environment, Lincoln offers larger lot sizes and a more relaxed pace of life while still being close enough to downtown for convenient access. Similar to the Arnada and Hough neighborhood, Lincoln boasts a mix of architectural styles, including historic buildings and charming Victorian homes. For those seeking a connection to nature, the Lincoln neighborhood is home to several local parks, such as Hidden Park and Leverich Park, providing ample opportunity for outdoor recreation and relaxation.