Clark County Rental Market Update: First Half of 2026
As we close out the first half of 2026, the Clark County rental market remains healthy, with demand continuing to outpace supply across Vancouver, Camas, and Ridgefield.
Our market analysis showed:
- Ridgefield posted the strongest rental conditions with a median rent of $2,669 and median days on market of just 14 days.
- Camas maintained a median rent of $2,500 with demand significantly exceeding available inventory.
- Vancouver’s 98660 market remained active with a median rent of $2,449 and median days on market of 17 days.
While demand remains strong, one trend has become increasingly clear: renters are more price-conscious than they were during the rapid appreciation years. Properties entering the market at realistic pricing continue to lease quickly, while overly aggressive pricing often results in longer vacancy periods and rent reductions.
What We’re Seeing at Zenith
While market data provides the broader picture, our day-to-day leasing activity offers a closer look at renter behavior throughout Clark County.
Rent Collection Remains Strong
Through the first six months of 2026, Zenith maintained an average rent collection rate of 98.5% across our managed portfolio.
Strong rent collection is one of the most important indicators of portfolio health and reflects both careful resident screening and proactive communication with residents.
No Evictions in 2025 or 2026
One statistic we’re especially proud of is that we have not filed a single eviction during 2025 or the first half of 2026.
In today’s regulatory environment, eviction prevention is often a better outcome for both owners and residents. Consistent screening, clear expectations, and responsive communication continue to produce positive results across our portfolio.
Faster Leasing Through Better Timing
One of the biggest lessons from the first half of the year has been the effectiveness of marketing properties when they are truly available rather than relying heavily on pre-marketing campaigns.
Historically, many property managers have attempted to generate interest before a property becomes available. In our experience this year, prospective renters have shown a much stronger response when homes are ready to view and available for immediate occupancy.
As a result, we’ve adjusted our leasing strategy accordingly.
Demand Remains Strong for Well-Presented Homes
Several properties leased exceptionally quickly this year. In fact, three separate homes rented within just three days of being listed.
These results reinforce a trend we continue to see throughout Clark County: when a property is properly prepared, professionally marketed, competitively priced, and immediately available, demand remains very strong.
Looking Ahead
As we enter the second half of 2026, we expect Clark County to remain one of the strongest rental markets in Southwest Washington. Inventory remains relatively constrained, demand remains healthy, and quality rental housing continues to attract qualified applicants.
For owners, success in today’s market is less about pushing rents aggressively and more about strategic pricing, minimizing vacancy, maintaining property condition, and retaining quality residents.
We look forward to continuing to help our clients maximize returns while protecting their long-term investments.