neighborhood/apartment suggestions (Vancouver, Orchards, Salmon Creek: home, neighborhoods, school)

[kansan1]

My 20 year old daughter is planning to move to Vancouver next month and will need a studio or 1-bedroom apartment. I want her to be in a safe place, and her budget will be pretty limited. Any suggestions about neighborhoods or specific complexes would be greatly appreciated.

[StealthRabbit]

please search this forum, as there has been a lot of discussion on this subject. Most important is "What area of town does she want / need?";

Transportation needs,
job,
school,
entertainment,
proximity to Portland (eastside or central).

Generally the area near 164th is pretty safe, and there are several newer complexes there. The area from I-5 to Andreson along 4th Plain is less desirable, as well as pockets in Orchards. BUT there are decent places in most regions. You want decide WHERE you need to be, then get some referrals / suggestions. Good lighting, less vegetation (no jungle), non-ground floor, and most importantly, a good landlord, is how I would look. I would also consider finding a 'guest-home' / apartment in a home or above garage of elderly folks, or widow. I personally would try to find someplace near Ft Vancouver, as I like the area for proximity to the park, Clark College, Library, Portland, Marshall Center, transit center, Deaf school... Vancouver is pretty safe, but I would also suggest she take a 'self-defense' course from local police / community ed. to get to know them and feel comfortable knowing some careful ways of getting around. Having mace and a whistle on your keychain is good in most any metropolitan area. Mall parking lots seem to be ez places to get in trouble these days. Being 'street smart', I don't find Portland or Vancouver to be threatening.

[PNW-type-gal]

Also, the Salmon Creek neighborhood (if she's going to WSU) is pretty safe, although she'll definitely need a car living up that way.