Camas, Washington, is a small city in the Pacific Northwest, located about 25 miles east of Portland. With its unique blend of modern amenities and rural charm, Camas has become an increasingly popular destination for those looking to relocate from larger cities.
However, despite its many attractions, there are some distinct drawbacks to living in Camas that should be considered before moving.
This article will explore 10 of the primary reasons why you might want to think twice before moving to this small city.
1. Bad Weather
Camas, Washington experiences a wide range of weather patterns throughout the year. During the summer months, temperatures tend to be hot and dry with highs in the mid-80s Fahrenheit, while during the winter months, temperatures tend to be cold and wet with lows in the upper 30s Fahrenheit. This variance in weather can make it difficult to plan outdoor activities or even travel around town.
Due to its location in the Pacific Northwest, Camas receives more than double the national average of rainfall each year (averaging between 37-44 inches annually), meaning heavy rain is rather common. This can lead to extreme weather events such as flooding and landslides, which can further complicate travel and outdoor activities. These events are often caused by rapid snowmelt or intense thunderstorms which can cause soil saturation and weaken river banks. Additionally, high winds during these periods can bring about down tree branches or even power lines which further impede travel. In addition to heavy rains, Camas also experiences occasional snowfall during the winter months averaging 8-10 inches per season.
In order to protect against these potential risks, it is important for residents of Camas to stay informed on the latest weather developments through local news outlets or NOAA’s National Weather Service and take necessary precautions when planning any outdoor activities. Preparing for extreme weather conditions by having emergency supplies readily available is also recommended for those living in Camas.
2. Limited Job Opportunities
The city of Camas, Washington is a small community with a population of just over 20,000. This means job opportunities are more limited compared to larger cities in the region. Although there are some major employers such as Sharp Corporation and Columbia Sportswear, most jobs in Camas are low-paying or part-time positions with little opportunity for advancement.
These positions include roles such as retail clerks, customer service representatives, restaurant workers and other basic labor jobs. Additionally, due to its size, Camas does not have the same number of corporate offices or large employers as some of its neighboring cities. As a result, finding a full-time position with career growth potential can be difficult for residents of Camas. This is especially true for higher skilled jobs such as engineers, IT professionals and other specialized roles that typically require a degree or certification. Moreover, many employers outside of the city may not want to hire someone from Camas due to the lack of available talent pool in the area.
3. High Cost of Living
Camas has a significantly higher cost of living than many other cities in Washington State. The median home price in Camas is currently around $475,000, a $35,000 difference from the state median of $440,000. Furthermore, the area’s housing market is highly competitive due to the limited availability of housing and high demand from prospective buyers.
This makes it difficult for those looking to purchase a home in the area to secure one at a reasonable price. In addition to the high cost of housing, many other expenses such as groceries and utilities are also more expensive in Camas compared to other cities in the state.
4. Difficult Commute Times
Commuting to and from Camas, Washington can be quite time consuming due to the city’s location in between Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington. During peak travel times, traffic is often congested on the highways, making it difficult for commuters to get from one side of town to another or into downtown Portland or Vancouver.
The trip usually takes longer than expected due to the heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. Additionally, parking can be difficult to find in both Portland and Vancouver, so it is important for commuters to plan ahead and allow extra time when traveling between the two cities.
5. Lack of Nightlife and Entertainment Options
Camas is a relatively small city, so those looking to have a night out on the town or to socialize with friends may be disappointed. Nightlife and entertainment options are limited compared to larger cities, making it difficult for those who are used to having a wide range of activities available.
Local parks, movie theaters, and restaurants are all popular destinations, but they may not provide enough variety for those who want to experience more of what a city has to offer. Those looking for more variety can travel to nearby cities such as Portland or Vancouver, which both have much more in terms of nightlife and entertainment options.
6. Limited Shopping Options
Camas may be a small city, but it offers its residents plenty of amenities and attractions. However, the city has limited shopping options for those looking for more specialized items. The downtown area does have some stores that offer basic necessities such as groceries and clothing, but anything beyond that may require a trip outside of Camas. This can be inconvenient for those who don’t have access to transportation or who don’t want to travel too far from home.
Fortunately, there are plenty of other activities and attractions in Camas to make up for the lack of shopping options. Residents can enjoy the local parks, trails and recreation centers, as well as take advantage of the city’s numerous art galleries, museums and cultural events throughout the year. In addition, Camas also boasts several restaurants, cafes and pubs that offer delicious food and drinks. All in all, while Camas might not be the best place for shopping, it still provides plenty of ways to keep its residents entertained!
7. Low Walkability Score
Camas has one of the lowest walkability scores among cities in the region, largely due to its dispersed layout and limited access to public transportation. This can make it challenging for pedestrians who wish to travel through town without relying on automobiles or other means of conveyance. The lack of sidewalks, crosswalks, and bicycle lanes in certain areas further contributes to the low walkability score of Camass, making it difficult for those without a car to safely move about the city. The city has made efforts to improve upon this, however, by providing more pedestrian-friendly pathways and by expanding public transportation options.
8. Poor Air Quality
Camas, Washington is located near several industrial areas and highways, resulting in poor air quality compared to other cities in the state. This can have serious implications for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions or allergies, as they may be more sensitive to the air pollution levels present in Camas than in other cities.
Pollution from these industrial areas and highways can include particulate matter such as dust and smoke, as well as gases like carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and ozone. Long-term exposure to pollutants like these can lead to serious health issues such as asthma, lung cancer, and heart disease. Therefore, it is important for those living in Camas with pre-existing respiratory issues or allergies to take extra precautions by limiting their outdoor activities on days when air quality is particularly poor.
9. Limited Arts and Culture Scene
Camas, Washington may not have the extensive arts and culture scene of larger cities in the region like Portland or Seattle, but that does not mean there is nothing to enjoy. In downtown Camas, there are a handful of galleries and museums which offer a variety of exhibitions for those with an appreciation for art and culture. However, beyond these few locations, the options in Camas are limited.
There are several local organizations which host events and performances throughout the year such as theater productions and musical performances; however, they are not as frequent or widespread as those found in larger cities.
Additionally, while there may be some festivals or other cultural events taking place in nearby towns or cities throughout the year, they are usually farther away so access can be difficult for those living in Camas. Despite this limitation on available cultural activities, residents of Camas can still find plenty of ways to appreciate art and culture through galleries, museums, and local organizations.
10. Limited Education Options
Lastly, there are limited education options available in Camas compared to other cities in Washington State due largely in part to its small size and rural location. There are some excellent private schools located nearby but most public school students must travel outside of town if they wish to attend college or university courses after high school graduation.
In conclusion, while Camas has many attractions that draw people from all over the world each year, there are also some distinct drawbacks that should be taken into consideration before making the decision to move there permanently. From bad weather and limited job opportunities to high cost of living and lack of arts and culture scene — these 10 reasons should make you think twice before relocating to this small city in the Pacific Northwest!
Originally posted 2022-12-29 15:42:19.