Battle Ground is a town in Clark County in Washington state, about 11 miles northeast of Vancouver and 30 minutes from Portland, Oregon. The town got its name from a battle that never happened - an 1855 standoff between the military and the Klickitat peoples involving Chief Umtuch and Captain Strong’s soldiers. The confrontation occurred in March of that year when Captain Strong agreed to negotiate rather than engage in combat, and the standoff ended without a single shot being fired.
Today, two schools in the area are named after the captain and chief. The charming area was incorporated as a town in 1951. The charming area was officially incorporated as a town in 1951, beginning its journey as a recognized City of Battle Ground that has since become one of Clark County's most desirable communities.
The town is located between the Cascade Mountains and the Pacific Coast, near the Columbia River, offering natural recreation opportunities such as parks, streams, forested areas, and lakes. The geographical center of Battle Ground sits in a prime location for residents who value proximity to both urban amenities and wilderness.
Several notable people have lived in Battle Ground over the years, including Bethany Joy Galeotti, an actress best known for her role in One Tree Hill, Gerry Staley, a professional baseball player, and Tonya Harding, the Olympic figure skater.
Is Battlegrounds WA a Good Place to Live?
Yes, Battlegrounds, WA a good place to live, especially for families seeking a suburban setting. The Battle Ground WA has an estimated population of 21,886 and sits roughly 30 minutes from both Vancouver. Battle Ground Lake State Park and local schools contribute to livability. Overall, Battle Ground offers a suburban-rural mix with access to outdoor recreation, making Battle Ground WA a great place to move to and live in.
Where Is Battle Ground Washington on a Map?
Battle Ground Washington is a city located in Clark County, which is about 20 miles northeast of Vancouver, Washington, and roughly 30 miles north of Portland, Oregon. Battle Ground ranks third among the cities in Clark County. The City of Battle Ground serves residents throughout Battle Ground Washington and the surrounding Clark County area. Historically, the region around Fort Vancouver served as a key settled area long before Battle Ground opened its doors as an incorporated city.
Battle Ground WA Population & Demographics
The population of Battle Ground, WA is 21,886 as per the last official updated data of 2024. The estimates put Battle Ground WA’s population anywhere between 22,000 and 24,000 in 2026, steady population growth driven by new housing developments and regional migration. The median age of Battle Ground residents is 33.9, with a sex ratio of 51% female to 49% male, indicating that women make up a slight majority of the community.
Residents enjoy a median income of $104,977, about 10% higher than Washington's median household income of $98,141. The $40,618 per capita income in Battle Ground further reflects a community with strong earning potential relative to national averages.
Battle Ground WA Demographics
Here's a complete breakdown of the Battle Ground WA racial composition and demographics:
- White alone: 9%
- Two or more races: 0%
- Hispanic or Latino: 3%
- White alone (non-Hispanic or Latino): 7%
- Asian alone: 2%
- Black alone: 8%
- American Indian and Alaska Native alone: 2%
- Native Hawaiian and Other Race / Pacific Islander alone: 1%
Source: U.S Census Bureau
Is Battle Ground WA Safe?
Yes, Battle Ground WA is a safe city to live in. Knowing the Battle Ground WA crime rate is important if you’re thinking about moving to Battle Ground and want to know if it is a safe place to live.
Battle Ground WA has a violent crime rate of 154 crimes per 100,000 people compared to the national average of 370, and a property crime rate of 1,557 per 100,000 compared to the 1,954 national average.
To ensure your safety, the Battle Ground police department has 28 commissioned officers and 6 professional staff. The department, overall, has a dedicated group of members who represent the importance of community safety.
Battle Ground WA Cost of Living
According to the Economic Policy Institute, the cost of living in Clark County, which includes Battle Ground, is $129,273 per year for a family of 4 with 2 adults and 2 children. So, if you want to know “Is it expensive to live in Battle Ground, Washington?” the answer is yes, Battle Ground is an expensive city to live in because the Battle Ground WA cost of living is about 36% higher than the rest of the country.
Average Monthly Costs of Living in Battle Ground WA
Here are the average costs of living in Battle Ground for a family of four:
- Housing: $2,022
- Food: 1,121
- Child Care: $2,233
- Transportation: $1,546
- Healthcare: $1,367
- Other necessities (apparel, personal care, household supplies, reading materials, and school supplies): $976
- Average Battle Ground utilities per month: $200 to $250 per month
- Taxes (federal personal income, state income, federal Social Security, and Medicare payroll taxes): $1,507
Source: Economic Policy Institute
Homes for Sale in Battle Ground WA
The real estate industry for homes for sale in Battle Ground WA remains active with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and a growing number of rentals and apartments in Battle Ground WA. As of early 2026, the median sale price for homes hovers around $522,805, indicating modest year-over-year growth relative to national averages. Homes typically spend 75 days on the market, indicating steady buyer interest and balanced competition.
What Are the Best Apartments for Rent in Battle Ground, WA?
Here are some of the top apartments for rent in Battle Ground, WA, known for variety in size, amenities, and location:
Clark Avenue Apartments Best Neighborhoods in Battle Ground, WA | Where to Live in Battle Ground
The most desired neighborhoods in Battle Ground are located in the northwest parts of the city, while more affordable living can be found in the southern regions. Regardless of the neighborhood you choose, you can easily drive the 18 miles from Battle Ground to Vancouver in about 22 minutes, or make the 26 mile trek from Battle Ground to Portland, Oregon, in about 32 minutes. You’ll find the entire city has a neighborly feel, with over 73% of the population owning their homes. Some of the best neighborhoods to live in the town include:
Meadow Glade
Meadow Glade is bordered by Brush Prairie to the southeast and Dollars Corner to the northwest. It’s considered one of the best places to retire in Washington. Many people live here and make the 23 mile, 28 minute daily commute from Meadow Glade to Portland, Oregon, for work.
Venersborg
Originally named ‘Venner’s Villas’ in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the community was originally marketed as an area resembling rural Sweden in flyers written in Swedish, so most of the early settlers were of Swedish ancestry. Bordered on the south by Salmon Creek and on the northwest by Lewisville, the neighborhood is still rural, with only three non-residential buildings in town, including a small store and a community gathering space. Many people live here and make the 22 mile, 29 minute daily commute from Venersborg to Vancouver, WA for work.
Lewisville
Lewisville is an ideal neighborhood for families in Washington, Lewisville has top-rated public schools, low crime rates, and is primarily made up of owner-occupied, medium-sized single-family homes with three or four bedrooms. Over 13% of residents work from home, which is a higher percentage than 95% of American neighborhoods.
Battle Ground WA Weather
Curious about the Battle Ground weather? If you’re living in Battle Ground, you’ll notice the area gets more rain than the rest of the country. The US averages 38 inches of rain annually, but the Battle Ground area of Washington is a little gloomy and gets about 52.37 inches per year. You’ll probably want to keep an umbrella in your car for those unexpected bursts of rain just as you’re trying to run errands. Interestingly, despite being only 20 miles apart, the climate of Battle Ground is quite different from the climate of Portland, which receives about 30.2 inches of rainfall per year.
You won’t have as much use for sunglasses as you might in other parts of the country, as the town only averages about 140 sunny days per year compared to the US average of 205, but you’ll find August - September among the most pleasant months in the area, with comfortable temperatures around 78 degrees.
There isn’t much snow here, only about 1 inchper year, but if you enjoy snowboarding and skiing, don’t despair! Living in Battle Ground WA means you’re located within an hour and a half of the mountains where you’ll find ample snow for winter activities.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Battle Ground WA Based on Weather
The best time to visit Battle Ground WA is mid-July through August, when the weather in Battle Ground Washington is warm, dry, and mostly clear. Average summer highs range from 75°F to 85°F, with July historically among the driest months of the year. Early fall, especially September, also brings mild temperatures and lower rainfall. According to regional climate averages, winter months receive the highest precipitation in Battle Ground Washington.
Things to Do in Battle Ground WA
In addition to the numerous parks and recreation activities provided by the Battle Ground Parks and Recreation department, the area and surrounding communities offer a variety of entertainment options. Whether you enjoy outdoor adventure or prefer indoor activities like basketball at local recreation centers, there's something for every group.
Here are some of the best things to do in Battle Ground WA you should explore:
This park is one of the best places to spend the day or a weekend with the kids and should be on your list of can’t-miss things to do. It’s a volcanic lake with equestrian and hiking trails, boating, and campsites. Located in the Cascade Mountain foothills, the 280-acre park features a trout-stocked lake for fishing, day-use restrooms, picnic areas, and a convenient parking lot for visitors.
18002 NE 249th St, Battle Ground, WA 98604 - 360-687-4621
Bailey’s Tiger Bowl offers something fun for the whole family to do in Battle Ground, whether you join organized leagues or stop in for open bowling and a quick bite to eat from the extensive menu of burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers.
211 N. Parkway Ave, Battle Ground, WA 98604 - 360-723-0082
A private park in nearby Brush Prairie, Alderbrook Park, offers mini-golf, paddle boats, Friday night cruise-ins, movies in the park, a huge beach-entry swimming pool, and an annual Oktoberfest event. There is a concession stand, but no outside food or coolers are allowed in the park. Alderbrook Park is a great way to escape the city with your family or for a unique date. The venue can be rented for weddings and private parties.
24414 NE Westerholm Rd, Brush Prairie, WA 98606 - 360-882-4444
Take a ride about 25 minutes outside of town for a fun and free activity: disc golf! Open rain or shine, the Glenwood Disc Golf Course is a standard 9-hole, par 3 located on the grounds of the Glenwood Community Church. Bring your own discs.
12201 NE 72nd Ave, Vancouver, WA 98686 - 360-571-3300
Other Major Attractions in Battle Ground
What Are the Best Shopping Centers or Malls in Battle Ground WA?
Battle Ground, WA provides for some very convenient shopping, including:
Does Battle Ground, WA Have a Downtown?
Yes. Downtown Battle Ground WA is a defined historic district centered along East Main Street in Battle Ground Washington. Often called Old Town, this area includes locally owned shops and cafes such as Founders Coffee and Mercantile. The City of Battle Ground adopted revitalization plans in recent years to guide façade and infrastructure improvements. This walkable core serves as the civic and commercial center of Battle Ground Washington.
Battle Ground Restaurants
If you are looking for the best places to eat in Battle Ground, you should consider visiting the following best restaurants in Battle Ground WA:
For the best authentic Mexican Food, visit Los Pepe’s for eat-in or take-out. Started by two brothers, enjoy their favorites like quesadillas, enchiladas, chicken & mole, or choose from the meatless menu.
1207 SE Rasmussen Blvd, Battle Ground, WA 98604 - 360-723-5277
Named after the famous Greek phrase by King Leonidas when the Persian armies required the Greeks to surrender their weapons, Molon Lave means “come and take them”. George’s Molon Lave is authentic Greek food made from scratch based on the owner's great-grandmother’s recipes. Stop in for happy hour Tuesday through Saturday or anytime for fresh food from the oven and grill.
1417 SE Rasmussen Blvd #130, Battle Ground, WA 98604 - 360-687-7770
The best place for a quick breakfast or lunch, stop in for a hearty breakfast or burgers for lunch. Sit at the diner-style, counter-top seating, or at any of the tables for an enjoyable meal.
813 W. Main Street, Battle Ground, WA 98604 - 360-666-0522
The best place near Battle Ground for a night out with friends or a date, Prairie Tavern offers burgers, pizza, and sandwiches with live music, sports on the TVs, and pool tables.
14925 NE Caples Rd, Brush Prairie, WA 98606 - 360-892-6313
Jobs in Battle Ground WA
The local economy is diverse, with the largest industries being health care, construction, and manufacturing, but the highest paying jobs in Battle Ground WA are found in utilities, agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting.
If you’re looking for jobs in the area, try researching available positions at the Battle Ground’s top employers:
Here’s an up-to-date listing of jobs in Battle Ground. And don’t forget, you’re within commuting distance to both Vancouver WA and Portland, OR for more employment opportunities.
Battle Ground Schools
Families living in town are served by the Battle Ground Public School District for Kindergarten through 12th grade, making education a strong priority in the community. There are 7 primary schools, 6 middle schools, 2 high schools, and 6 alternative schools. Students and families enjoy the Battle Ground Community Library for research, books, and fun programs.
Elementary Schools in Battle Ground WA
Here are some elementary schools in Battle Ground WA, including both public and private options serving early grades in and around the city:
Battle Ground Statistics
If you’re flying in or out of the city, the closest airport is Portland International Airport (PDX).
- Battle Ground WA zip code: 98604
- Battle Ground WA area code: 360
- Elevation: 295 ft
- Time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC -7 and -8)
- Land area: 8.54 square miles
Battle Ground WA Map
Use this map of Battle Grounds WA to explore things to do and tasty restaurants.
What Are the Pros & Cons of Living in Battle Ground, WA?
Battle Ground offers a lifestyle that appeals to people who want the best of the Pacific Northwest without the intensity of big-city living. The climate is one of the area's biggest draws as winters are mild with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing, and summers stay comfortably below 80°F on average, so you won't deal with the extreme heat or heavy snowfall that other parts of the country face.
That said, there are many other pros and cons of living in Battle Ground, Washington:
Pros of Living in Battle Ground WA
- Mild, year-round climate: Comfortable summers and winters without extreme heat or heavy snowfall. It makes everyday life outdoors enjoyable across all four seasons.
- Easy access to ski resorts: Hood Meadows and Timberline Lodge are roughly 90 minutes away, giving you access to easy weekend mountain trips.
- Multiple outdoor recreation activities: Battle Ground Lake State Park, Lewisville Park, and Daybreak Park offer hiking, fishing, swimming, and camping just minutes from home.
- Strong community and low crime: Property crime is trending downward, and the homeownership rate exceeds 70%, making Battle Ground an ideal place for a tight-knit neighborhood.
- Proximity to Portland and Vancouver: Downtown Portland is about 30 minutes away, and Vancouver is roughly 20 minutes away, giving you access to big-city amenities.
Cons of Living in Battle Ground WA
- Limited in-city entertainment: Concert venues, major shopping centers, and nightlife options are mostly located in nearby areas like Vancouver or Portland.
- Higher-than-average rainfall: At around 53 inches per year, Battle Ground gets significantly more rain than the national average.
- Car-dependent living: With a walk score of 32, most errands and commutes require a vehicle, and public transit options are limited compared to nearby urban areas.
- Rising home prices: With a median list price of around $522,805, Battle Ground is slightly above the national average, which can be a barrier for first-time buyers on a tighter budget.
FAQs
What County Is Battle Ground WA in?
Battle Ground is located in Clark County, in southwest Washington, near the Oregon border. Clark County is part of the Portland metropolitan area and is one of the fastest-growing counties in the state. Residents benefit from access to regional services, major highways, and nearby urban job centers.
What Is the Population of Battle Ground WA?
Battle Ground has a population of about 21,886 residents based on recent U.S. Census estimates. The city has experienced steady growth over the past decade due to new housing developments and its proximity to Portland. Despite growth, it maintains a suburban, small-town feel.
How Far Is Battle Ground Washington From Portland Oregon?
Battle Ground is approximately 25 miles north of Portland. The drive typically takes 35–45 minutes via I-5 or I-205, depending on traffic conditions. This proximity makes it a practical option for commuters who work in the Portland metro area.
How Did Battle Ground Washington Get Its Name?
The city was named after an 1855 standoff between U.S. Army troops and Native American tribes during the Yakima War. Although tensions were high, the conflict ended peacefully without a pitched battle. The name “Battle Ground” reflects the location of that confrontation.
What Battle Happened in Battle Ground WA?
Despite its name, no formal battle took place in Battle Ground. The 1855 confrontation concluded without gunfire or casualties. Local historical markers explain the event and its role in the area’s early settlement history.
What Is Battle Ground WA Known for?
Battle Ground is known for its small-town atmosphere, growing residential communities, and access to outdoor recreation. Popular destinations include Battle Ground Lake State Park, which offers hiking, fishing, and camping. The city also serves as a gateway to forests, rivers, and mountain views in southwest Washington.
Are There Any Breweries or Wineries to Visit in Battle Ground WA?
Yes, Battle Ground has a small but growing craft beverage scene. Local spots such as Northwood Public House and Brewery offer house-brewed beers and casual dining. Additional wineries and tasting rooms can be found throughout Clark County and nearby Vancouver.
Which Companies Offer Guided Tours Around Battle Ground, Clark County, WA?
Battle Ground has limited in-city tour operators, but regional companies like Cheryl’s Northwest Tours provide guided experiences nearby. Outdoor adventure and wine tour companies based in Vancouver and the Portland area often include stops in rural Clark County. Visitors can also find self-guided hiking and scenic driving routes throughout the region.
What Religion and Places of Worship Are Available in Battle Ground WA?
Battle Ground is home to a diverse range of places of worship, including Christian churches of various denominations, with the Seventh-day Adventist community having a notable presence in the Meadow Glade area. Citizens can find local news about community events and worship services through the Battle Ground community bulletin and regional publications.
Need Help in Moving to Battle Ground WA?
After you’ve chosen the best area to live in town, reach out to our reputable Battle Ground movers for a stress-free relocation. You can reach our friendly team by calling (503) 746-8795. We know the area well and can ensure you a quick and effortless moving experience, so you can start your journey of living in Battle Ground on the right note.
