Is Camas Safe, Pros and cons of living in Camas

Camas, Washington, offers a compelling blend of suburban tranquility and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a high quality of life. Nestled in the scenic Columbia River Gorge region, the city is known for its well-regarded school system, abundant green spaces, and a strong sense of community.

The city provides a peaceful atmosphere, yet it remains conveniently located near the larger metropolitan amenities of Portland, Oregon. This proximity allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: a serene hometown environment with easy access to urban opportunities. Camas is consistently recognized as a desirable place to live, often appearing on lists of best places to live in Washington state.

Is it Safe to Live in Camas?

Camas is widely regarded as a very safe city, with crime rates significantly below national averages. Violent crime is particularly rare, contributing to its reputation as one of the safest communities in Southwest Washington. Residents generally feel secure in their neighborhoods, fostering a peaceful living environment.

The overall crime rate in Camas is substantially lower than both the state and national averages (as reported by AreaVibes). Your chance of being a victim of violent crime is approximately 1 in 2,101, and for property crime, it is about 1 in 135 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). This low incidence of crime is a significant factor in its appeal to families and individuals seeking a secure place to call home.

Cost of Living and Housing

Housing Costs

The cost of living in Camas is considerably higher than the national average, largely driven by its robust housing market. The median home price in Camas is notably higher than in many surrounding areas, reflecting its desirability and limited housing supply (as reported by Livability.com). As of recent data, the median home price has been reported around $642,345 (as reported by Livability.com), with some sources indicating median listing prices closer to $851,000 (as reported by Camas, WA Housing Market & Rental trends).

This elevated housing cost is influenced by factors such as the quality of the school district, proximity to natural attractions like Lacamas Lake, and the influx of high-income professionals. The median rental price in Camas is also substantial, with recent figures showing it around $2,075 per month (as reported by Zillow) or $2.0K (as reported by Camas, WA Housing Market & Rental trends). These figures suggest that while Camas offers a high quality of life, affordability in its housing market is a key consideration for potential residents.

Cost of Living Overview

Camas is approximately 19% more expensive than the national average, and about 4% higher than the average city in Washington (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). This higher cost is influenced by expenses such as housing, transportation, and food. While Washington state does not have a personal income tax, residents do pay a combined state and local sales tax of approximately 8.4% (as reported by Camas).

Despite the overall higher cost of living, some expenses can be more competitive. For instance, utility costs, such as electricity, can be significantly lower than the national average (as reported by Camas, WA Housing Market & Rental trends). The absence of a state income tax is a notable financial advantage for residents, contributing to a higher take-home pay compared to neighboring states.

Job Market and Economy

Major Employers

Camas boasts a diverse economic landscape with several significant employers contributing to its job market. Key companies include WaferTech, a semiconductor manufacturing company, and Fisher Investments, a prominent financial services firm. Other notable employers in the area encompass Furuno, Sharp Labs of America, and the City of Camas itself (as reported by Zippia).

These companies represent a range of industries, from technology and manufacturing to finance and public services. This economic diversity provides a variety of employment opportunities for residents, supporting the city’s stable economic environment. The presence of these major companies also indicates a strong local economy that attracts talent and investment.

Employment and Salaries

The average annual salary in Camas is approximately $51,949, which equates to about $24.98 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). However, other sources indicate a higher average salary, with ERI SalaryExpert reporting an average of $71,522 per year or $34 per hour. The median household income in Camas is reported to be around $136,978 (as reported by Livability.com).

Wages in Camas are generally higher than the national average, with many jobs offering competitive compensation. For example, the top-paying jobs in Camas can include specialized roles like dentists, veterinarians, and cybersecurity professionals, with annual salaries potentially reaching over $100,000 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This indicates a strong job market for skilled professionals.

Unemployment Rate

The unemployment rate in Camas reflects the broader trends in Washington state. As of January 2026, the Washington state unemployment rate was 5.0%, a slight increase from previous months (as reported by Washington state unemployment rate increased to 5.0% in January). While this represents a modest rise, it remains a relatively low figure historically.

The local job market has seen some fluctuations, with employment in Camas experiencing a slight decline of -0.257% between 2023 and 2024 (as reported by Data USA). However, the overall economic picture suggests a resilient job market that continues to offer opportunities for those seeking employment.

Climate and Weather

Temperatures and Rainfall

Camas experiences a climate typical of the Pacific Northwest, characterized by short, warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The average annual temperature ranges from about 36°F to 84°F, with temperatures rarely dropping below 26°F or exceeding 96°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The warmest months are typically July and August, with average high temperatures around 81°F to 83°F.

Rainfall is abundant throughout the year, with an average of 46 to 50 inches annually (as reported by Livability.com and myPerfectWeather). The wettest month is usually November, receiving around 9.0 inches of rain, while July is the driest, with about 0.5 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather). This consistent rainfall contributes to the region’s lush green landscapes.

Seasonal Variations

The summer season in Camas, generally from late June to mid-September, is pleasant with mostly clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Days are warm, with highs often in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. Winters, from November to February, are colder and wetter, with average daily high temperatures typically below 52°F and lows around 36°F in December (as reported by myPerfectWeather).

The transition seasons of spring and fall bring moderate temperatures and increased rainfall. Snowfall is minimal, averaging around 3 inches per year (as reported by Livability.com). The climate is generally conducive to outdoor activities for much of the year, especially during the drier summer months.

Education and Demographics

School Ratings

Camas is renowned for its highly-rated public school system, which is a significant draw for families. The Camas School District consistently receives high marks, often ranked among the best in Clark County and the state of Washington (as reported by Niche). Schools in the district are recognized for their academic rigor, diverse extracurricular activities, and supportive learning environments.

Camas High School, in particular, is well-regarded, with strong performance in state test scores for math and reading. The district as a whole is praised for its commitment to student success, although some reviews mention occasional funding challenges affecting certain programs (as reported by Niche). Overall, the educational offerings are a major asset for residents.

Population and Age Distribution

Camas has a population of approximately 27,007 residents, with a median age of 40.7 years (as reported by Point2Homes). The population is fairly evenly split between males and females, with about 50% of each gender. The age distribution shows a significant portion of the population in the prime working and family-raising years.

About 21.3% of residents are children under 15, and 13.4% are between 15 and 24. Adults aged 25 to 44 constitute 22.1%, while the 45 to 64 age bracket makes up the largest segment at 30%. Those aged 65 and older represent about 13.2% of the population (as reported by Point2Homes). This demographic profile suggests a community with a strong family presence and a mature, established population.

Racial and Ethnic Makeup

The racial and ethnic composition of Camas is predominantly Caucasian, with 71.3% of the population identifying as such (as reported by Point2Homes). Other significant demographic groups include those of Asian descent, making up 12.6% of the population, and individuals identifying with two or more races, at 11.4%.

Smaller percentages of the population identify as African American (1.6%), Indigenous American (0.6%), and Pacific Islanders (0.6%). The majority of residents are US-born citizens, with a smaller percentage being naturalized citizens or non-citizens (as reported by Point2Homes). This demographic makeup contributes to the city’s distinct community character.

Pros and Cons of Living in Camas

Pros

Camas offers numerous advantages for its residents, foremost among them being its exceptional safety and low crime rates (as reported by AreaVibes). The highly-rated public school system is another major draw, providing excellent educational opportunities for children. The city’s natural beauty, with its proximity to lakes and forests, offers abundant outdoor recreational activities.

Furthermore, Camas benefits from Washington state’s lack of a personal income tax, which can lead to significant financial savings for residents. The community boasts a strong sense of togetherness, a desirable suburban feel, and a revitalized downtown area with shops and restaurants (as reported by Camas named one of 50 ‘best places to live in 2024’). Its strategic location near Portland also provides access to a wider range of amenities and employment options.

Cons

The primary drawback of living in Camas is its high cost of living, particularly concerning housing prices, which are significantly above the national and state averages (as reported by Livability.com and Camas, WA Housing Market & Rental trends). This can make it challenging for individuals and families to afford homeownership or even rent in the area.

While the city is generally safe, some neighborhoods may experience slightly higher crime rates than others, and vigilance is always recommended (as reported by Camas Crime Map). The city’s demographic makeup is also less diverse compared to larger metropolitan areas, which may be a consideration for some potential residents.