/ Financial Impact
/ Economic Impact
$0 million
in state and local tax revenue0
Direct Jobs$0 billion
annually in the regional economy0
Jobs supported by the portThe Port of Vancouver USA is a key driver of regional economic growth. By investing in infrastructure and leasing facilities to tenants and customers, the port supports job creation, attracts private investment, and connects Southwest Washington to global markets.
A 2022 economic impact study shows the port supports nearly 20,000 jobs and contributes $2.9 billion annually to the regional economy. This includes 3,849 direct jobs and $87.6 million in state and local tax revenue that funds essential public services.
Port Spending
/ Benefits Region's Economy
Ports are state-chartered to be economic engines for their communities. They are also important contributors regionally.
The Port of Vancouver USA compiles and assesses data which helps it determine how much port spending on construction activities, maintenance, services and more benefits this region.
The most recent data shows that the port spent more than $69 million annually on goods and services to operate the port. More than 75 percent – $52 million – was spent locally in Vancouver and Clark County, the Portland Metro Area and Washington state.
/ Year in Review
The Port of Vancouver USA reported a net revenue of $55,163,993 in 2024, driven by a range of activities across its maritime terminal operations and by leases within its industrial/commercial property.
Despite a softening in some commodities and growing uncertainties in the global marketplace, 2024 was one of the port’s best-ever financial years.
Its strategic diversification of business lines and commodities helped produce strong operating revenues from multiple sources including imports and exports, consistently high industrial occupancy, steady demand for government vessel layberth accommodations and other commercial activity. The Port remains one of the leading ports on the U.S. West Coast, helping generate $2.9 billion in economic impact each year and providing the second largest source of employment in Clark County.
/ Budgeting
The Port of Vancouver USA follows a transparent budgeting process with annual public review and commission approval. Each October, staff develops a preliminary budget by reviewing projected revenues and expenses against the port’s goals. The preliminary budget is presented at a public commission workshop, marking the first official step in the process. After the workshop, the Board of Commissioners considers approval during a regular meeting. In November, a public hearing is held, followed by the commission’s decision on the final budget.
Budget Documents
For Investors
* These sites will require a search for “Port of Vancouver” and may require setup of a free account to view documents.
/ Taxes
Tax Rate & Revenue
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In Washington, public ports can collect a property tax levy of up to $0.45 per $1,000 of assessed value, as authorized by state law.
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The Port of Vancouver currently collects about $0.21 per $1,000 of assessed value.
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That means a property assessed at $530,000 pays about $111/year.
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This generates approximately $13.39 million annually.
Purpose of Tax Funds
By law, all tax dollars must support capital improvements—not salaries. The funds are used for:
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Debt service on general obligation bonds.
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Building and upgrading critical infrastructure: roads, rail, marine facilities.
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Purchasing of new assets or repair/improvement of existing assets.
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Environmental remediation: the removal of pollution or contaminants from land, air and water.
Community & Economic Impact
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The Port supports over 50 tenant businesses and nearly 4,000 jobs, generating $817 million in personal wages and a total economic impact of $2.9 billion annually.
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Tenant businesses pay $87.6 million in state and local taxes through leasehold excise tax which takes the place of personal property tax. Tenant operations have a ripple effect, creating $432 million in local consumer spending.
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In a recent economic impact study, the port collected approximately $13.39 million in property taxes. In return, the port and its 50+ marine and industrial tenant businesses generated $134.4 million in state and local tax revenue.
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That’s an 11:1 return on investment. For every $1 the public contributed, $11 came back to state and local governments to support essential services like police, fire, and schools. Without this economic engine, local taxpayers would shoulder more of the cost for these critical public services.