Felida, WA
Felida is a suburban census-designated place in Clark County, Washington, located just north of Vancouver. Known for its high standard of living, excellent schools, and access to outdoor recreation along the Columbia River.
About the city
Official status and administrative affiliation
Felida is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Clark County, Washington, United States . It does not have an official city status or a municipal government, functioning instead as a designated area for statistical purposes. Its full official name is simply Felida, Washington.
Felida is located in the southwestern part of Washington State, within Clark County. The region is part of the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area and is known for its proximity to the Columbia River, its growing residential communities, and as a suburb of the larger city of Vancouver, Washington .
Date of foundation and age
The Felida area has deep historical roots, with significant ties to the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804–1806. It is located near the site of Cathlapotle, a large Chinookan town that was home to an estimated 700–800 people and featured at least 14 substantial plank houses . This history was commemorated in 2005 with the construction of a replica Cathlapotle plank house at the nearby Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge.
A post office was established for the area in 1890 . The origin of the name "Felida" is a local tale. The first postmaster, Marian E. McIrvin, wanted to name it Lakeview, but that name was already taken. His father-in-law suggested Felida, and the name stuck . Another theory suggests the name was derived from Felidae, the biological family of cats, after a postmaster wanted to name it after his cat, Thomas .
Geographical position and coordinates
Felida is located in southwestern Clark County at coordinates 45°42′35″N 122°42′19″W (45.70972, -122.70528) . It is situated approximately 7 miles (11 km) north of downtown Vancouver, Washington . The community is bordered by Salmon Creek to the east and Lake Shore to the south.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 3.0 square miles (7.8 km²), of which 2.9 square miles (7.5 km²) is land and 0.2 square miles (0.4 km²), or 4.74%, is water . The elevation of the area is around 213 feet (65 meters) above sea level . Geographically, it is a suburban community situated on relatively flat land near the banks of the Columbia River.
City type and economic specialization
Felida is primarily a residential suburban community and a transportation hub for commuters. Its economy is closely tied to the larger Vancouver and Portland metropolitan areas. Many residents work in nearby cities, with a mean travel time to work of about 23.0 minutes . Local economic activity includes some health care, social assistance, transportation, warehousing, and retail sales, though on a smaller scale .
Population and demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Felida was 9,526 . More recent estimates for 2025 project a population of around 11,304, indicating continued growth . The population density is approximately 2,560 inhabitants per square mile (988.6/km²) .
Felida is classified as a small to medium-sized suburban community. Key demographic features include a high level of educational attainment, with 54.6% of persons aged 25 and older holding a bachelor's degree or higher, and a very high household income, with a median household income of $150,430 (in 2023 dollars) . The racial makeup is predominantly White (around 86%), with Asian and multi-racial populations making up the largest minorities . The poverty rate is low, at 2.7% .
"Visiting card" of the city (briefly)
Felida is a peaceful and affluent suburban community in Southwest Washington, offering residents and visitors a high quality of life with its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and easy access to nature. It's a perfect base for exploring the Vancouver area and the Columbia River, with nearby parks and trails providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and boating.
Climate and weather
Climate type and general characteristics
Felida experiences a warm-summer Mediterranean climate (Csb) according to the Köppen climate classification, characterized by short, warm, dry summers and very cold, wet, and overcast winters . The area is known for its abundant rainfall, averaging around 44 inches (1,118 mm) per year . It is one of the more sun-drenched places in western Washington during the summer months .
Average temperatures by month
The warm season in Felida is short, lasting about 2.8 months, from late June to mid-September, with an average daily high temperature above 76°F (24°C) .
- Hottest month: August, with an average high of 83°F (28°C) and an average low of 57°F (14°C) .
- Coldest month: December, with an average high of 45°F (7°C) and an average low of 36°F (2°C) .
- Temperature range: Over the course of the year, temperatures typically vary from 35°F (2°C) to 84°F (29°C), and are rarely below 25°F (-4°C) or above 95°F (35°C) .
Precipitation and humidity
Felida has a very wet winter season and a distinctly dry summer.
- Annual precipitation: Approximately 44 inches (1,120 mm) .
- Wettest month: November is the wettest, with an average rainfall of 9.4 inches (239 mm) .
- Driest month: July is the driest, with an average rainfall of just 0.5 inches (13 mm) .
- Snowfall: Snow is infrequent but possible in winter. January typically sees the most snow, averaging 2.9 inches (7 cm) .
- Humidity: Humidity levels are generally high, especially in the cooler months, averaging around 82% .
Sunny days and UV index
The number of clear or partly cloudy days in Felida varies significantly throughout the year.
- Clearest period: From mid-June to early October, the sky is generally clear .
- Sunniest month: August is the clearest month, with the sky being clear, mostly clear, or partly cloudy 76% of the time .
- Cloudiest month: December is the cloudiest, with the sky being overcast or mostly cloudy 77% of the time . This leads to a significant difference in daylight hours, from 8.7 hours in December to 15.7 hours in June .
Seasonality and best time to visit
The best time to visit Felida for warm-weather outdoor activities is from early July to late August .
- Summer (June - September): The weather is at its finest, with warm, dry, and sunny days perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the parks and the Columbia River. This is the peak season for outdoor recreation.
- Spring (March - May) and Fall (October - November): These seasons are characterized by mild to cool temperatures and increasing rainfall, especially in the fall. The landscape is lush and green, but outdoor plans should be flexible due to the higher chance of rain.
- Winter (December - February): Winters are very cold, wet, and overcast. While snow is possible, it is not the norm. This is the off-season for most outdoor activities, though it can be a good time for cozy indoor pursuits.
Landmarks
The Cathlapotle Plankhouse
Located nearby at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, the Cathlapotle Plankhouse is a full-scale replica of a Chinookan-style cedar plankhouse, dedicated on March 29, 2005 . It commemorates the significant Chinookan town of Cathlapotle, which was home to an estimated 700-800 people and visited by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805-1806 . The plankhouse serves as an interpretive center, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives, culture, and history of the indigenous people who have lived along the Columbia River for thousands of years.
Felida Park
Felida Park is a central recreational hub for the community . It offers residents and visitors a place for relaxation, sports, and community gatherings. The park features open green spaces, playgrounds, and sports facilities, making it a popular spot for families and locals.
Salmon Creek Greenway Trail
This is a key outdoor destination in the area, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and biking . The trail meanders along Salmon Creek, providing a scenic and peaceful natural experience within an urbanizing area. It is a popular spot for bird watching, walking, jogging, and cycling.
Vancouver Lake
Situated just south of the community, Vancouver Lake is a large, shallow lake that provides a variety of recreational activities . While not within Felida's boundaries, it is a key nearby landmark. Visitors can enjoy sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and fishing. The lake's park also features a swimming beach and trails for walking and biking.
Lewis and Clark Expedition Historical Context
The entire region is steeped in the history of the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806) . The expedition spent time in the area, and the presence of the large Chinookan village of Cathlapotle was a significant point of contact and observation. Exploring the area offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of these historic explorers and learn about the native peoples who greeted them.
Transport
Main airports
Felida is located approximately 15 miles (24 km) north of downtown Portland, Oregon, making it easily accessible to a major international airport.
- Portland International Airport (PDX) is the primary airport serving the entire region, including Felida. It is a major international airport with flights to numerous domestic and international destinations. The drive from Felida to PDX typically takes about 20-30 minutes via I-5 South.
Public transport system
Public transportation in Felida and the surrounding Clark County area is provided by C-TRAN .
- Bus Service: C-TRAN operates several bus routes that connect Felida to Vancouver and other parts of the county. One key route is the C-TRAN 9 bus, which is designated as the "Felida" route, serving the community and connecting it to the regional transit network .
- Commuter Trends: The majority of residents (83.9%) drive alone to work, with a small percentage (2.0%) using public transit. A notable portion (8.4%) work from home, reflecting modern commuting patterns .
Major highways
Felida's primary transportation artery for regional travel is Interstate 5 (I-5) . This major West Coast freeway runs north-south, providing direct access south into Vancouver and Portland, Oregon, and north to other Washington communities like Ridgefield and beyond. I-5 is crucial for commuters and for anyone looking to travel farther afield.
Major roads
The main local thoroughfares in and around Felida include Northwest 36th Avenue and Northwest Lake Road, which connect the residential areas to the interstate and neighboring communities.
Museums
Felida is a small community in Clark County, Washington, and while it offers a quiet suburban atmosphere, its proximity to Vancouver and the surrounding area provides access to a variety of unique museums and historic sites. Many institutions listed as being in Felida are actually located in nearby Vancouver or Battle Ground, making them easily accessible for residents and visitors .
Specialized and Unique Museums
- Wendel Museum of Animal Conservation: Located nearby at 8303 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, this museum is dedicated to wildlife preservation and conservation efforts for endangered species. It features exhibits with animals from around the world and offers interactive displays for an educational experience .
- Pearson Air Museum: Situated at 1115 E 5th St, Vancouver, this museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. Housed in a large hangar, it showcases a collection of World War I-era planes and includes an exhibit on the historic first transpolar flight .
- Clark County Historical Museum: Found at 1511 Main St, Vancouver, this museum focuses on local and regional history. Its collection includes a significant number of Native American artifacts, offering insight into the indigenous peoples of the region, as well as a research library for deeper exploration .
- Creative Ice: At 11703 NE 16th St, Vancouver, this unique venue showcases the art of ice sculpting. Visitors can view a gallery of completed sculptures and watch live ice sculpting demonstrations, where artisans transform blocks of ice into intricate works of art .
- Devil-ish Little Things Museum: Located at 3409 L St, Vancouver, this museum offers an intriguing experience with a curated collection of oddities. Exhibits feature a range of items, from rare antiques and unusual artworks to bizarre curiosities .
- The Haus Of Luna: At 1004 W St, Vancouver, this museum provides a glimpse into local history and culture through exhibits of artifacts, photographs, and vintage clothing. It also highlights the artistic heritage of the area with traditional crafts and artwork .
Museums for Families and Children
- Chicky Play Museum: Situated at 8109 NE Vancouver Mall Dr Suite A, Vancouver, this interactive museum is designed for children. It features hands-on exhibits in various themed rooms, such as a science lab and art studio, encouraging creativity, imagination, and play .
Historic Sites and Monuments
- Fort Vancouver National Historic Site: Located at 1001 E 5th St, Vancouver, this site was once a Hudson's Bay Company trading post and fort. Visitors can take self-guided tours of the reconstructed fort, explore historic buildings like the Chief Factor's House, and watch 19th-century blacksmithing demonstrations .
- Friends of Fort Vancouver: This nonprofit organization operates a museum on the grounds of the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, with artifacts and exhibits related to the fur trade, military history, and the diverse cultural heritage of the region .
- Captain George Vancouver Monument: This plaza at 178-188 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, serves as an outdoor museum dedicated to the city's namesake. It features a modern sculpture and an interpretive plaque that provides historical context about Captain George Vancouver's exploration of the Pacific Northwest .
- Museo Michelangelo: A small museum located at 900 SE Commerce Ave, Battle Ground, dedicated to the works of the renowned artist. It features a collection of sculptures, paintings, and sketches, including a replica of the Sistine Chapel ceiling .
Medical Facilities and Healthcare
The Felida community has access to a range of healthcare services, with several major medical facilities and clinics located in the nearby city of Vancouver . The area is generally considered to have good access to quality healthcare.
- Hospitals and Medical Centers: The primary hospitals serving the Felida area are St. Joseph's Medical Center and Northwest Specialty Hospital. These facilities provide specialized care for patients living in the region .
- Primary Care and Clinics: For primary care services, residents can visit local medical facilities such as Evergreen Primary Care and Northpointe Clinic. Numerous pharmacies are also located throughout the community to provide essential medications and health products .
- Healthcare Statistics: According to city data, the Felida area has approximately 148 physicians per 100,000 population, compared to the US average of 210. The annual BestPlaces Health Cost Index for the area is 77.6 (where lower is better), compared to the US average of 100. The Air Quality Index is 51 (where 100 is best), relative to the US average of 58 .