Tacoma, Washington, nestled on the banks of Puget Sound, offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. This city, the third largest in Washington, serves as a vibrant hub for arts, culture, and outdoor activities, making moving to Tacoma an enticing option for many.
Reasons to Move to Tacoma
Tacoma, WA, offers a compelling mix of urban and natural beauty, making it an increasingly popular destination for those looking to move. Positioned on Puget Sound and a stone’s throw away from Seattle, Tacoma combines the convenience of city living with the charm of the Pacific Northwest’s stunning landscapes.
With a population of over 217,000, the city is celebrated for its scenic views, including Mount Rainier and the Pacific Ocean, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a plethora of outdoor activities. Tacoma’s economy is buoyant, showing consistent job growth across various sectors such as healthcare, technology, and manufacturing, providing a stable job market for professionals.
The cost of living, while above the national average, is countered by higher local incomes and remains significantly lower than nearby Seattle, offering an appealing balance of affordability and quality of life.
Moreover, Tacoma’s rich cultural scene is a draw for residents and visitors alike, featuring numerous museums, art galleries, and performance venues. The city’s vibrant art scene, alongside its diverse culinary landscape, caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Educationally, Tacoma is home to highly-rated public and private schools, as well as esteemed higher education institutions like the University of Washington Tacoma, making it an attractive place for families and students.
Additionally, Tacoma is known for its friendly community and being a gateway to the broader Pacific Northwest, with easy access to major cities like Seattle and Portland. With a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and preferences, from bustling downtown areas to tranquil suburbs, Tacoma is versatile enough to be called the “City of Destiny” for a good reason.
The Housing Market in Tacoma
The Tacoma housing market has been demonstrating robust growth and a competitive landscape. As of early 2024, home prices in Tacoma have seen a significant rise, with the median home price reaching $460,000, marking a notable surge of 7.0% compared to the previous year. This growth is a clear indicator of a thriving real estate landscape in Tacoma, underlined by the decreased time homes spend on the market — dropping from 38 days to an average of just 24 days. The market is characterized by its competitive nature, with homes typically selling at a pace and often receiving multiple offers, some of which include waived contingencies.
Moreover, Tacoma’s market trends suggest a seller’s market, with properties selling swiftly and a considerable percentage of homes selling above the listing price. The average sale-to-list price ratio stands at 99.3%, reflecting a competitive market where buyers need to act quickly and strategically.
Despite the challenge of balancing supply and demand, the Tacoma housing market remains active, with the number of homes sold slightly lower than the previous year. However, homes that sold above list price accounted for 29.3%, indicating a robust demand. This environment suggests an optimistic future outlook for Tacoma’s housing market, with continued growth expected in home prices and sustained market activity.
Cost of Living in Tacoma
The cost of living in Tacoma, Washington, reflects a blend of affordability and quality of life that is appealing to many. According to the BestPlaces Cost of Living index, Tacoma scores 122.7, indicating that it is about 22.7% higher than the national average but slightly lower than the state average. This positions Tacoma as a more affordable alternative to some of its larger Pacific Northwest neighbors.
Housing is a significant factor in the cost of living, with a typical home in Tacoma priced at $454,100, which is higher than the national average but more affordable compared to the average home in Washington state. Renting also presents a viable option, with the cost for a two-bedroom unit averaging $1,560 per month, slightly higher than the national average but less expensive than the state average.
In terms of everyday expenses, Tacoma offers a reasonable cost for utilities, food, and transportation. Utilities for a standard apartment come to about $236.71 monthly, while dining out at an inexpensive restaurant could cost around $15.00 per meal. For those commuting within the city, a one-way ticket on local transport is priced at approximately $2.38.
Meanwhile, the housing market continues to be vibrant, with options ranging from downtown apartments to suburban homes, suiting a variety of preferences and budgets. It’s also worth noting that while the overall cost of living in Tacoma is higher than the national average, the absence of a state income tax in Washington can help mitigate some of these expenses, potentially increasing disposable income for residents and newcomers alike.
Tacoma’s Job Market
The job market in Tacoma, WA, has been experiencing growth, demonstrating resilience in various sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Tacoma-Lakewood area showed an employment increase, with notable sectors such as education and health services, leisure and hospitality, and government contributing to job expansion.
The overall nonfarm employment reflected a positive change, indicating a healthy and growing job market. However, the construction sector experienced a decline, highlighting sector-specific challenges. This diverse economic activity underscores Tacoma’s role as a significant employment hub in the Pacific Northwest, catering to a wide range of professional and skilled labor opportunities.
Moreover, BestPlaces.net highlights that Tacoma has seen a 1.8% increase in the job market over the last year, with future job growth over the next ten years predicted to be 39.9%, outpacing the US average. The city’s strategic position, with access to major transportation networks and proximity to the Seattle metropolitan area, continues to attract businesses and workforce talent alike.
Despite a higher unemployment rate compared to the national average, the positive job growth trajectory and significant future job growth projections suggest an optimistic outlook for Tacoma’s job market. This makes Tacoma an attractive place for both job seekers and employers, promising a vibrant economy with opportunities for advancement and innovation.
Transportation in Tacoma
Transportation in Tacoma, WA, offers residents and visitors a variety of options for getting around the city and beyond. The Tacoma Link Light Rail is a significant component of the local transit system, providing free service across downtown Tacoma with stops at key locations including the Tacoma Dome, Union Station, the Convention Center, and several hospitals.
This service operates every day, making it a convenient option for daily commutes or leisurely explorations of the city. The Light Rail connects seamlessly with other modes of transportation, encouraging the use of public transit for a more sustainable lifestyle.
Additionally, the Tacoma Dome Station serves as a crucial hub for regional transportation, linking bus and commuter train services provided by Sound Transit, Pierce Transit, and Intercity Transit. This integration facilitates access to a broader network, connecting Tacoma with neighboring cities and offering routes to Seattle’s Sea-Tac International Airport.
For those attending events at the Tacoma Dome or exploring the city’s vibrant districts, parking can be limited, prompting the use of alternative transportation methods such as rideshare programs. These comprehensive transportation services underscore Tacoma’s commitment to accessible and efficient urban mobility.
Educational Opportunities
Tacoma, WA, offers a vibrant landscape for educational opportunities, particularly through innovative partnerships and programs designed to enhance the learning experience for students of all ages. A significant initiative in this area is Tacoma Creates, which collaborates closely with local cultural organizations and Tacoma Public Schools (TPS) to enrich students’ educational journeys.
Tacoma Creates supports a variety of programs that extend beyond the traditional curriculum, including arts, culture, heritage, and science education. These programs are not only available during the school day through specially designed curriculum units and field trips but also through after-school classes known as Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO), ensuring that learning continues beyond the bell. This initiative emphasizes cultural learning opportunities for all TPS students, prioritizing schools with the highest needs.
Additionally, FabLab Education in Tacoma focuses on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) education, offering a range of classes and workshops aimed at fostering innovation, critical thinking, and design skills. Their programs cater to a diverse audience, including at-risk youth, with scholarships available to ensure wider access.
From introductory classes in Python and 3D printing for kids to specialized workshops for adults, FabLab Education provides hands-on and digital fabrication training. This commitment to STEAM education underlines Tacoma’s dedication to preparing students for the future by equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Weather and Climate
Tacoma, Washington, enjoys a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. This Pacific Northwest city experiences significant seasonal variation in monthly rainfall, with the wetter season lasting from October to April. During this period, there’s a greater chance of wet days, particularly in November, which sees the highest average number of wet days.
Conversely, the drier season spans from April to October, with August typically having the fewest wet days. Rainfall is the most common form of precipitation year-round, peaking in probability around mid-November. Despite its rainy reputation, Tacoma receives an average of only 4 inches of snow per year, with snowfall primarily occurring from January through March, and again in November and December, making snow a relatively rare sight in the city.
Tacoma’s climate offers residents and visitors relatively comfortable conditions for much of the year. Summer highs in July can reach around 77°F, making it one of the most pleasant times of the year, while winter lows in January dip to around 37°F.
The city averages 41 inches of rainfall annually, slightly higher than the U.S. average, with most of the rain falling in the winter months. Despite the frequent precipitation, Tacoma enjoys 141 sunny days each year, offering ample opportunities to explore its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The climate contributes to Tacoma’s reputation as a place with a high quality of life, thanks in part to its scenic views, outdoor recreation, and vibrant cultural scene.
Natural Disasters and Safety
Tacoma, WA, and the broader Pierce County area are exposed to various natural hazards due to their diverse geographic and climatic conditions. The region’s vulnerability to hazards such as earthquakes, floods, volcanic activity, severe storms, landslides, tsunamis, and wildland/urban interface fires is well-documented.
Particularly, earthquakes and lahars from Mount Rainier present the most significant risks, potentially threatening both life and property on a large scale. The county has experienced numerous federally declared disasters over the past decades, emphasizing the need for robust preparedness and mitigation strategies.
Among these, landslides and earthquakes are notably recurrent threats, with landslides occurring frequently due to the state’s mountainous topography. Washington’s Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Transportation have allocated considerable resources towards mitigating these risks, including a significant annual budget for the cleanup of affected highways and roads.
The region’s seismic activity further underscores the importance of earthquake preparedness, with Washington ranking high among US states for earthquake risk. Several major fault lines run through the state, including the Cascadia Subduction Zone, capable of producing significant seismic events that could lead to widespread damage and even tsunamis.
Cultural and Entertainment Options
Tacoma, WA, is a treasure trove of cultural and entertainment options that cater to a diverse array of interests and preferences. For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, Swan Creek Park offers a splendid ecosystem with a salmon creek for fishing, a wooded canyon, community gardens, and even a dog park, providing ample space for picnics, bird watching, and nature walks over nearly 375 acres.
Those interested in exploring Tacoma from a unique perspective can embark on Destiny Harbor Tours. Established in 2007, these tours utilize Navy boats to provide educational and scenic views of Puget Sound, highlighting the majestic coastline, local sea life, and marine history. The tours, which can last from two to four hours, offer a rare opportunity to navigate narrow bridges, observe ships docked in local harbors, and enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas.
The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene with events like the Tacoma Night Market, which runs every third Saturday of the month, offering a mix of locally made goods, food trucks, a well-stocked bar, and live music at Alma Mater Tacoma. Additionally, Tacoma celebrates its diversity and community through annual events such as Tacoma Pride in July, Ethnic Fest which has been running for over 30 years, Art on the Ave, and Tacoma Arts Month in October.
These events spotlight the rich tapestry of culture, art, dance, food, and music from around the globe, providing engaging activities for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re a history buff, art aficionado, or someone who enjoys outdoor adventures, Tacoma’s wide range of cultural and entertainment offerings ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Outdoor Recreation
Tacoma, WA, offers a plethora of outdoor recreational activities that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest in a more relaxed setting. Point Defiance Park, recognized for its scenic beauty and well-maintained trails, is a haven for nature lovers.
It provides a variety of trails that cater to walkers, runners, and bikers alike, offering a mix of forested paths and beachfront strolls. For those interested in exploring Tacoma’s marine life and waterfront views, Destiny Harbor Tours provide an educational and scenic experience of Puget Sound, showcasing the city’s coastline, sea life, and marine history from a unique vantage point.
Additionally, Tacoma-Pierce County boasts a rich blend of natural and urban landscapes, ensuring outdoor enthusiasts have no shortage of activities to choose from. From the 260 miles of trails at Mount Rainier for hiking, camping, and sightseeing, to the golfing opportunities at the world-renowned Chambers Bay, and the combined zoo and aquarium at Point Defiance Park, the area offers an impressive variety of experiences.
Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, boating, and fishing along the stunning shorelines of South Puget Sound, Gig Harbor, and American Lake. Tacoma-Pierce County successfully melds the splendor of its natural surroundings with the convenience and amenities of city life, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
Local Community and Lifestyle
Tacoma, WA, presents a rich tapestry of local community and lifestyle that mirrors its scenic surroundings and vibrant cultural scene. The city’s unique blend of historical charm and contemporary lifestyle is vividly captured in various local publications and attractions, offering residents and visitors a comprehensive guide to the best of Tacoma.
253 Lifestyle Magazine, in particular, showcases the essence of the Pacific Northwest lifestyle, emphasizing the people, the places, and the activities that make Tacoma a special place to live, work, and play. This publication dives into the local scene, covering everything from community events, cuisine, and fashion to great local stories, reflecting the hopes, dreams, and deep-rooted history that define the Tacoma community.
Top attractions like Point Defiance Park exemplify Tacoma’s commitment to outdoor recreation and natural beauty, featuring hiking trails, a zoo and aquarium, and inviting beaches within its 760 acres. The Chihuly Bridge of Glass and the Museum of Glass highlight the city’s artistic flair, showcasing the world-renowned glass art that Tacoma is famous for.
Meanwhile, the vibrant local guide at Finding Beyond underscores Tacoma’s transformation into a dynamic cultural and economic hub, where the blending of old and new creates an appealing destination. Whether it’s through the stunning waterfront properties, the quaint neighborhoods, or the modern downtown apartments, Tacoma offers a variety of living spaces and experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences, solidifying its reputation as a place where history and modernity coexist harmoniously.
Dining and Nightlife
Tacoma, WA, is celebrated for its vibrant dining scene and dynamic nightlife that caters to a broad spectrum of tastes and preferences. The city’s cuisine culture is deeply rooted in the farm-to-table movement, benefiting from the fresh produce supplied by the Puyallup Valley.
This has led to a diverse culinary landscape, from small diners with nationwide fame to restaurants where chefs have honed their skills over decades. Whether you’re craving waterfront dining experiences or looking to explore the culinary artistry of local breweries, Tacoma’s food scene promises an authentic taste of the Pacific Northwest.
When the sun sets, Tacoma’s nightlife comes alive with a variety of venues designed to satisfy any evening out. For those seeking a mix of craft cocktails and jazzy vibes, The Boom Boom Room offers an eclectic and stylish setting. Meanwhile, video game enthusiasts can head to The Triple Knock, a unique arcade bar that combines great beer with classic games.
If you’re in the mood for something more adventurous, Foxy Lady Bikini Bar offers adult entertainment with a twist. For a more laid-back evening, the Night Owl Social Club and Smoke Shop Hookah Lounge provides a cozy atmosphere for enjoying flavored smoke. And for music lovers, Keys on Main introduces a novel concept with its live piano performances, setting the stage for an unforgettable night out in Tacoma.
Neighborhoods in Tacoma
Tacoma, WA, offers a diverse array of neighborhoods, each with its unique character, making it an appealing place for a variety of lifestyles. For those drawn to historic charm and vibrant local scenes, North Tacoma stands out. It encompasses some of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, such as Old Town, Ruston, Stadium District, and the Proctor District, each offering a mix of scenic beauty, community feel, and access to local amenities. The area is noted for its parks, historic homes, and being close to everything Tacoma has to offer.
On the other hand, Central Tacoma and the South End / South Tacoma areas cater to those seeking a blend of urban living and community vibrance. Central Tacoma is known for its bustling atmosphere, bolstered by the new light rail extension and a variety of dining and nightlife options, particularly along 6th Ave.
South Tacoma, including the Eastside, offers some of the city’s most historic homes and streets, along with unique bars and a strong sense of community identity. These areas underscore Tacoma’s ability to offer both the energy of city life and the warmth of community living.
Moreover, neighborhoods like the Stadium District and Old Town offer a blend of stunning views, historic charm, and proximity to downtown’s amenities, making them highly sought-after locations.Each neighborhood in Tacoma presents a unique set of attributes, catering to a wide range of preferences, from waterfront living and suburban feel to urban excitement and historic ambiance, ensuring that anyone can find their perfect spot in Tacoma.
Moving Tips and Resources
Moving to Tacoma, WA, can be a rewarding experience, thanks to its vibrant community, diverse neighborhoods, and stunning natural surroundings. However, to ensure a smooth transition, it’s essential to prepare effectively, find your trusted moving companies and understand what to expect in terms of living conditions and local amenities.
Researching and choosing the right neighborhood is crucial since Tacoma boasts a wide variety of areas, each with its unique vibe and living conditions. The city is divided into several neighborhoods, ranging from the historic charm of North Tacoma to the vibrant and centrally located New Tacoma.
Each area offers different amenities, from waterfront views in the Stadium District to more suburban feels in Northeast Tacoma. Housing costs vary significantly across these neighborhoods, with rent prices fluctuating based on proximity to the city center and natural attractions.
Preparing for your move involves more than just packing boxes. It’s recommended to start planning as early as possible, declutter your belongings, and consider hiring a professional moving company for a stress-free experience. Ensure you have the proper packing supplies and plan your packing in stages, room by room, to make the process manageable.
Labeling your boxes by room and creating an inventory of your items can also help keep things organized. Once moved in, take the time to enjoy and explore your new home and all that Tacoma has to offer, from its rich arts and culture scene to its outdoor recreational activities.
