Felida is a pocket neighborhood in northwest Vancouver, Washington located a quick hop off the I-5 and a 20-minute jump across the bridge to Portland’s MODA Center. Technically part of Clark County, rather than Vancouver proper, this highly sought-after neighborhood is home to just over 10,000 residents.
Felida is that perfect junction of rural and urban; the community has a small-town feel and is nestled between lengthy nature trails and rural farms in one direction and city amenities the opposite way. Most Felida homes are single-family including ranch, craftsman and contemporary styles. And there are newer construction townhomes and duplexes available. Niche considers Felida one of the top neighborhoods in Washington, with some of the most highly rated schools in the area. In more unofficial metrics, Felida is a top suggestion on any parenting forum when asking for favorite areas to purchase a home in Southwest Washington.
More highlights of Felida include access to both health care and higher education at the Washington State University Extension, and its proximity to both the award-winning waterfronts in Vancouver and Portland. Felida’s cons include its hot home market and competitive pricing, limited rentals, and a population lacking diversity.
What Neighbors Say
The Ellingson family, Rachel and Drew and kids Rylan, 8, and Owen, 5, are proud Felida residents. “We are from Vancouver originally and chose to call Felida home because of the sense of community, our regular neighborhood parties, and the amazing schools,” says Rachel. “Our neighbors support each other and our kids have already made forever friends — we couldn’t ask for more!”
Rachel also applauds the incredible sense of community she’s found in local parent groups, but perhaps the youngest residents describe it best. “I love having fabulous neighbors,” says Rylan, and Owen adds, “I like going to my school.”
Play Here
“It’s impossible to stay inside with the scenery around us. We love going to Felida Park for the awesome play structure and biking on the beautiful Salmon Creek trail, rain or shine!” says Rachel Ellingson. Felida Community Park is a community staple with ample green space, and the playground got an upgrade in 2023 with a new, inclusive rainbow theme (pictured above). The 3-mile, paved Salmon Creek Greenway Trail winds through a 368-acre, undeveloped watershed area known for its scenic views and wildlife-viewing opportunities — especially at Turtle Pond, where you can spy herons, ducks, otters and, on sunny days, turtles.
Eat Here
There isn’t a huge selection of dining destinations in Felida, but you’ll struggle to find a bad option from what the area provides. “One of our favorite spots to enjoy a casual meal with the kids is Mahoneys,” says Rachel Ellingson. “They have a great patio and kid-friendly options — we love their pretzels! We also really enjoy Mar’s Cuisine next to the Country Store for an easy dinner take-out option. The owner goes above and beyond.” Portland residents may also find appeal in family-friendly Mt. Tabor Brewing’s nearby Vancouver location. Mt. Tabor has the brews you already know and love, with high-end pizza options worth the indulgence.
Live Here
$680,000: Median home price
$3,400: Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment
Sources: Realtor and Zumper
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