15 Essential Things To Know About Living in Tacoma, WA

In the heart of the Puget Sound lies Tacoma, Washington. It’s earned the name “Grit City” for returning from tough times. This city of around 222,906 people is the state’s third-largest. It’s known for being affordable, having many job options, and being close to great places. Tacoma mixes its industrial past with many cultures, making it unique. Its nickname, “Grit City,” shows how it’s changed. It left behind being just a working town to become somewhere full of life and chances.

Whether you’re drawn to the cultural vibrancy of its downtown core, the historic charm of its neighborhoods, or the ease of access to outdoor activities, living in Tacoma presents a compelling package that makes it worth considering for prospective residents.

Affordable Living

Tacoma is called “Grit City.” It’s way cheaper than nearby Seattle. Seattle’s cost of living is 57% over the national average, but Tacoma’s is much more fair. One big reason is Tacoma’s lower real estate prices. They are 21% under Washington state’s average, unlike Seattle, where home prices are 80% over the state’s average.

Tacoma is suitable for those looking for a deal on homes. The city’s average house costs $478,784. There are many neighborhoods with different prices. For example, South Tacoma has a median price of $402,320. But, the North End is pricier, with homes at $639,860.

Affordable Rental Options

Renting in Tacoma is affordable, too. Studio apartments start at $995. One-bedroom places cost between $1,090 and $1,704 a month. Two-bedroom spots start at $1,147. Three-bedrooms start at $1,237. two-bedroomTwo-bedroom houses cost from $1,627 to $2,100 for those wanting more space.

What makes Tacoma even better is that Washington has no state income tax. There are many kinds of places to live. From cheap apartments to family homes, Tacoma is a great choice. You can have a good life here without the high costs of other big cities in Washington.

Neighborhood	Median Home Price	Median Rent	Population
Central	$450,000	$1,225	21,522
South End	$415,403	$1,296	23,200
North East	$644,999	$1,822	21,696
Eastside	$450,000	$1,180	32,553
West End	$535,526	$1,494	17,722
South Tacoma	$402,320	$1,341	26,343
North End	$639,860	$1,468	18,465
Downtown Tacoma	$1,444,111	$1,215	9,551

GET IN TOUCH

Find Storage Units Near You!

Reserve Storage Unit

Job Opportunities

Tacoma is a city by the coast that offers various jobs. You can work in finance, insurance, or aerospace. The city’s most significant workplaces include the Port of Tacoma and the University of Puget Sound. You can also find jobs at healthcare spots like MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital.

The Port of Tacoma is a big employer with good benefits. It offers medical insurance, life plans, and more. The Port also helps with healthcare costs and has an assistance program. If you’re interested, you can apply online for jobs there.

The University of Puget Sound is a top place to work. It offers many jobs and internships, some paid. Undergrads can earn $20 an hour, and grads $25. These jobs are often full-time in the summer and part-time during the school year.

Near Tacoma is Joint Base Lewis-McChord, a key job area. It has jobs in healthcare, logistics, and more. Anyone looking to work there should check the available positions and follow the job application process. Healthcare plays a big role in Tacoma’s job scene. MultiCare and St. Joseph offer jobs in nursing, healthcare, and more. They provide good pay, benefits, and chances for growth.

Proximity to Major Attractions

Tacoma is in a great spot close to many fabulous places. Seattle is nearby for city fun, and Olympia is here for state business. Bellevue is a short jaunt away if you love to shop. For nature fans, Mt. Rainier and Olympic National Parks are less than two hours away. You can go hiking, skiing, or just enjoy the animals.

Tacoma is ideally suited for city lovers who want to save money. It’s easy to drive to Seattle for work or fun. With its quiet beauty, Olympia and Bellevue’s busy shops are nearby, too. So, Tacoma folks get the best of all worlds without spending too much.

Outdoor fans will love Tacoma. It’s near Mt. Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park, where you can hike and spot wildlife. Mt. Rainier has incredible glaciers and meadows. Olympic boasts rugged coastlines and green rainforests. Adventure seekers have a lot to see and do.

Choosing Tacoma means you get a fun city and nature close by. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy culture or the great outdoors, and the city’s location is great for anyone who wants to explore the Pacific Northwest fully.

Higher Education Options

Tacoma has many higher education choices. These schools fit various interests and goals. For example, the University of Washington Tacoma is known for its research and new programs. The University of Puget Sound is also here, offering rich educational experiences. These places in Tacoma help students learn more and reach their dreams.

The University of Washington Tacoma is active in the city. It focuses on learning by doing and working across different fields. Over 40 degrees in business, education, and social sciences are available. UW Tacoma has a small class size to help you get personal help and support.

You’ll find the University of Puget Sound in the middle of Tacoma. It’s a well-liked private college for arts and sciences. It’s known for its challenging programs and lively campus. You can study business, sciences, and the arts there. The college works hard to help students find jobs or keep learning after graduation.

Bates Technical College is known for preparing students for work. It has many career programs. You can study things like healthcare and skilled trades. Bates Tech helps students learn through practical methods. This has helped it earn awards for its quality education. Colleges like these in Tacoma offer many chances for higher education. They help students follow their academic and work goals in a positive, diverse way.

Climate and Weather

Many think the Pacific Northwest is always rainy and gloomy. But Tacoma, Washington, has a mild climate. Its moderate temperatures year-round mean residents enjoy all four seasons without extreme weather challenges.

Tacoma sees about 41 inches of rain each year, a bit more than the national average of 38 inches. Rainfall is spread out well. The wettest month is November, and the driest is July. Tacoma only gets about 4 inches of snow yearly, much less than the U.S. average of 28 inches.

Tacoma’s climate is comfortable and temperate. The city has 141 sunny days a year, though it rains on about 154 days. Tacoma has a Comfort Index rating of 7.4 out of 10, which shows that it’s a nice place to live.

Seasonal Variations

The best weather in Tacoma is in August, July, and September. Winters in December and January are colder and wetter.

In August, Tacoma’s high is about 77.2°F. The coldest month, December, sees lows around 35.2°F. Days over 90°F happen only 2.4 times a year. Humidity is usually low. It’s most humid in August, July, and September. The city gets the most rain in November, about 6.7 inches. July has the least, just 0.7 inches. Snow usually doesn’t arrive until December, averaging 4.2 inches a year.

Tacoma enjoys moderate temperatures, balanced rain, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a comfortable life in the Pacific Northwest.

GET IN TOUCH

Find Storage Units Near You!

Reserve Storage Unit

Public Transportation

Tacoma is known as the “Grit City.” It loves cars but also has great public transport. The city’s public transport includes PierceTransit buses, the Link Light Rail, and Sound Transit buses, which make it easier for people to travel around the city.

PierceTransit runs many bus routes in Tacoma and nearby areas. The Link Light Rail connects downtown Tacoma with SeaTac Airport. It’s suitable for those traveling to or from the region.

Tacoma’s downtown is easy to walk around. It has shops, restaurants, and cultural spots, making it great for walking and enjoying the city. Public transport and walking are easy in Tacoma. They are suitable for working, shopping, or seeing the city. Tacoma keeps working to make transport better for everyone.

Outdoor Activities

Tacoma is a dream place for people who love the outdoors. It has something for everyone. You can bike, hike, do water sports, and explore nature, which are great for all types of adventurers.

In Tacoma, there are many trails to bike and hike on. You can see beautiful views of the Puget Sound from the Dune Peninsula Bridge. Point Defiance Park is huge, with 12 miles of trails. These trails go through forests, gardens, and along the waterfront.

Water lovers will enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing in Tacoma. The city has great places to access the water, like Owen Beach. Kandle Park is known for its swimming pool and beach area, which are very popular.

Tacoma is close to unique places like Mount Rainier National Park. Here, you can see beautiful forests, tall waterfalls, and wildlife. There are even chances to spot elk, bald eagles, and orcas. Whether you want to walk around, have an adventure, or relax by the water, Tacoma has something for you. With its beautiful nature and many activities, Tacoma is called the “Grit City.”

Family-Friendly Activities

Tacoma is known as “Grit City” because it’s rich in fun and affordable family activities. There are many things to do, from learning adventures to fun outdoor activities, making it an excellent place for everyone.

The Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium is a top place to visit. It has red wolves, sharks, and sea turtles for families to enjoy. To step back in time, the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum offers interactive history with its exhibits and people in costumes.

Those who love sports can see the Tacoma Rainiers play at Cheney Stadium, where the Minor League Baseball team shines. Families can enjoy watching soccer with the Tacoma Stars at the ShoWare Center.

The Sprinker Recreation Center is perfect for cold, fun experiences. It offers ice skating, hockey, and bumper car rides. Families can also visit farmers’ markets across the city, where they can find fresh local produce and enjoy fun outdoor activities. With its wide variety of family-friendly activities, Tacoma has something for everyone and ensures that every family member has a great time.

Museum District

Tacoma’s Museum District shines with culture and art. It’s home to several amazing museums, all just a short walk apart. Visitors can enjoy a mix of exhibits that show the area’s deep history, art, and creative spirit.

At the heart of the district is the Tacoma Art Museum. It’s known for its art from the Pacific Northwest. Plus, it has exciting special shows. Close by is the Children’s Museum of Tacoma. It’s a fun place for families. Kids get to play and learn in creative ways. Right around the corner is LeMay: America’s Car Museum. It’s a top spot for car buffs. A short walk across the Thea Foss Waterway brings you to the Foss Waterway Seaport. Here, you’ll learn about the area’s past sea adventures.

Museum	Highlights
Tacoma Art Museum	Extensive collection of Pacific Northwest art, rotating exhibits
Children’s Museum of Tacoma	Hands-on, interactive exhibits that encourage learning through play
LeMay: America’s Car Museum	World-class automotive museum with historic and vintage vehicles
Foss Waterway Seaport	Explores the region’s maritime history and culture

Art and Glass Blowing

Tacoma is famous for its lively Tacoma art scene. The city’s art program puts money into art all around town. This includes works by Dale Chihuly, a renowned glass artist from Tacoma. You can see his influence in places like the Bridge of Glass and the Museum of Glass.

If you visit, there are many art places to check out. The Tacoma Glass Blowing Studio is a fantastic spot to learn about glass blowing. Other places like the Tacoma Arts Community Center, American Art Company, and Proctor Art Gallery also show many different works of art by local and regional artists.

Tacoma has two top-notch museums with amazing Tacoma glassblowing collections: the Tacoma Art Museum and the Museum of Glass. The Museum of Glass has a big cone and a hot shop for artists to work in. It’s open to the public. The Tacoma Art Museum is growing its glass art collection, too. It now has a new section showing modern glass art.

One more place to see is the Chihuly Bridge of Glass. It’s full of over 2,000 glass pieces; you can visit anytime. Also, you’ll find glass art around Tacoma. Places like a movie marquee, a dorm room, and more all have Chihuly’s work.

Opportunities to Create Glass Art

In Tacoma, you can try your hand at Tacoma glass blowing in places like Area 253 Glassblowing and Tacoma Glassblowing Studio. They have classes and workshops for everyone. Hilltop Artists is a group that helps kids with art. They even sell the kids’ artwork to help their cause.

Hilltop Artists lets kids try glassblowing, flameworking, and fusion if they’re in 7th or 8th grade. High schoolers can take classes at Silas High School, too. They help for free, thanks to Tacoma Public Schools.

At Hilltop Artists, you can also join the Team Production. If you’re older, there’s the Alumni Team. They also have an Ambassador Program where students can learn worldwide, in places like Biot, France, and Murano, Italy.

Performing Arts

Tacoma is full of life with its performing arts. There are many places for live shows all year. Big shows are at Pantages Theater and Tacoma Dome. There, you’ll see plays, dances, music, and funny acts for everyone to enjoy.

Tacoma’s Symphony Tacoma is a crucial player. It has been playing beautiful music for 75 years. People also love watching plays and supporting actors at the Tacoma Opera and Musical Playhouse. These are top spots for live pieces in the Northwest.

Upcoming Performing Arts Events

A recital is scheduled for June 15th, 2024, showcasing the talents of local musicians and dancers.
A Flamenco Dance Children’s Program will start on July 2nd, 2024. It will cater to children aged 5 to 11 and have a limited enrollment of 10 students.

The city is investing in the Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center, which will cost $9 million and be located in the Hilltop area. Thanks to a $3 million federal grant and $6 million to come, this center will stand out. It will include a big dance studio and a small theater, too. People can learn ballet, West African dance, hip-hop, and more.

A lot is happening in Tacoma’s arts scene. It’s not just the classics but also new shows and laughs. Tacoma supports its local artists and builds a place for everyone to find something they love, keeping the city on the map as a great arts spot.

Festivals

Tacoma is known as “Grit City.” It celebrates its culture and community with many festivals. These events highlight the city’s art, music, food, and history. They offer fun and cultural adventures for both locals and tourists.

The Daffodil Festival is a big deal in Tacoma. It celebrates the city’s farming roots. You can enjoy a parade, great music, and beautiful daffodil flowers at this spring event. Then, in April, Tacoma focuses on the arts. The Tacoma Arts Month festival fills the city with artsy and cultural things.

In June, Tacoma’s LGBTQ+ community shines at the Tacoma Pride Festival. It’s a time to celebrate being different and expressing yourself. Then, in July, the Fourth of July shows off Tacoma’s patriotic spirit. There are parades, fireworks, and gatherings to celebrate America’s freedom.

The In the Spirit Native Festival honors Tacoma’s indigenous roots. It features traditional music, dances, artwork, and food. For beer and blues lovers, the Brew-Five-Three Beer and Blues Festival is a fun mix of local craft beers, blues music, and great food.

These events showcase Tacoma’s culture and events. They make Tacoma’s festivals lively and attract people from all over.

Dining and Restaurants

Tacoma’s eating spots are lively and show the city’s diverse culture. You can find everything from budget-friendly Mexican bites at The Matador to fancy New American meals at The Table. Along the waterfront, you’ll have a great time tasting local Tacoma foods and fresh seafood.

The city’s food scene is like a big mixtape, from cozy food trucks to cool pubs. They use the area’s fresh crops and seafood, cooking up dishes from all over the world. Try Indochine for Thai tastes or Gateway to India for true North Indian plates.

Notable Tacoma Restaurants

The Matador – Known for its Mexican-inspired dishes and lively atmosphere in downtown Tacoma.
The Table – An upscale New American restaurant offering refined, seasonal cuisine.
Duke’s Seafood – Featuring award-winning clam chowder and spectacular views of the Puget Sound.
Asado – A steakhouse renowned for its selection of finely prepared cuts and Argentine specialties.
Boathouse 19 is a waterfront dining spot with stunning South Puget Sound and Narrows Bridge views.
Cuerno Bravo – One of the best steakhouse restaurants in Tacoma, known for its wood-fired meats.

Restaurant	Cuisine	Average Cost per Person
Over the Moon Cafe	American	$31 – $50
Marzano Italian Restaurant	Italian	$30 and under
Duke’s Seafood	Seafood	$30 and under
The Adriatic at Oakbrook	Italian	$31 – $50
Greenhouse	Seafood	$31 – $50
Gino’s at the Point	Italian	$31 – $50
Slahal Restaurant and Bar	Steakhouse	$31 – $50
The Windmill Bistro	American	$30 and under
Tokyo Japanese Steak House	Japanese	$31 – $50

Tacoma offers a wide variety of food, making it a must-visit for fans. From pocket-friendly classics to fancy places by the water, Tacoma restaurants welcome everyone. That’s why both locals and tourists like it here.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Tacoma has a lively nightlife scene. It offers many places like bars, pubs, and venues. These places are great for meeting friends, listening to live music, and trying fun drinks.

Tacoma has spots like the Tacoma Comedy Club and Dorky’s Arcade. The Comedy Club is famous for making people laugh. Dorky’s Arcade has over 100 classic games, food, and drinks.

Jazzbones has live music in a cool, relaxed setting. Steel Creek Tacoma is more fancy, focusing on whiskey and having nice decor. The Spanish Ballroom at McMenamins Elks Temple offers a historical dance hall experience.

E9 Firehouse and Gastropub, Top of Tacoma Bar and Cafe, and the Boom Boom Room Tacoma each have a special touch and add to Tacoma’s fun nightlife and entertainment.

Tacoma bars highlight the city’s craft beverage scene. Tacoma Brewing, Dystopian State, and Engine House No. 9 have many types of beers. En Rama and The Tacoma Cabana offer creative mixed drinks for those who enjoy cocktails.

Venue

Boom Boom Room
Foxy Lady Bikini Bar
The Vault
Devil’s Reef
The Triple Knock
The Plaid Pig Live Music Lounge
McMenamins Spanish Ballroom
Keys on Main
Jazzbones Restaurant & Nightclub

Tacoma’s bars include old hidden hangouts, cool cocktail bars, and breweries. They cater to all types of Tacoma nightlife fans. Whether you want to see a comedy show, play old games, or enjoy unique drinks, Tacoma has plenty.

Best Places to Live

Tacoma, Washington, is a vibrant city known as “Grit City.” It has many neighborhoods, each with its own special lifestyle. Old Town has historic charm, while New Tacoma is bustling with energy. Every area has something for homebuyers or renters.

Here are the best places to live in Tacoma:

Central Tacoma: Central Tacoma feels like a village with a strong community. It costs around $183,854 to buy a house and $1,041 to rent. This area is safer than 11% of Tacoma’s neighborhoods, which is great for those looking for an affordable and safe place to live.
Eastside-Enact: The Eastside-Enact area has a median price of $160,712 to buy and $915 to rent. It’s safer than 44% of Tacoma, so it’s a good choice for those who want to save money but still live in a safe area.
New Tacoma: The downtown area of New Tacoma offers a lively scene. Houses cost around $175,067 to buy and $903 to rent. It’s safer than 33% of Tacoma, mixing affordability with a good quality of life.
North End: The North End combines several neighborhoods, including Old Town and Stadium District. Buying a house here is about $331,293, and rent is $939. It’s safer than 78% of Tacoma, making it a top choice for safety and upscale living.
West End: The West End is famous for its beautiful sunsets and views of the Olympics and Puget Sound. The median price to buy a home is $276,111, and rent is $1,003 monthly. It’s safer than 67% of Tacoma, ideal for those who love nature.

Think about what you want in a neighborhood. Consider your budget and lifestyle, too. Tacoma has something for everyone. Whether you prefer Central Tacoma’s community, the savings in Eastside-Enact, or the life of New Tacoma, you’ll find your perfect match.

Neighborhood	Median Purchase Price	Median Monthly Rent	Crime Rate (Safer Than)
Central Tacoma	$183,854	$1,041	11% of Tacoma neighborhoods
Eastside-Enact	$160,712	$915	44% of Tacoma neighborhoods
New Tacoma	$175,067	$903	33% of Tacoma neighborhoods
North End	$331,293	$939	78% of Tacoma neighborhoods
West End	$276,111	$1,003	67% of Tacoma neighborhoods

Conclusion

Tacoma, Washington, is a great place to live without the high costs of nearby Seattle. It has a diverse job market, great schools, and a rich arts scene. This makes it perfect for young professionals, families, and anyone looking for quality living in the Pacific Northwest. With its mild weather, ample outdoor fun, and friendly locals, Tacoma shines. It mixes big companies with new startups, which means many job options. You’ll also find diverse food, cool art spots, and things for families to do, making Tacoma a complete package. Tacoma combines affordability, job chances, good schools, and a vibrant culture. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a taste of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you like the outdoors and arts or want varied job options, Tacoma has something to discover.

Trust SecureSpace for your storage and moving needs in Tacoma. With convenient locations and various storage options, SecureSpace ensures your belongings are safe and accessible. Whether you’re moving homes or need temporary storage, visit SecureSpace.com today to find the perfect solution for you.

FAQs

Is Tacoma a good place to live?

Tacoma offers a picturesque setting on the Puget Sound, providing residents with breathtaking views of the water and mountains. The city has several parks and trails, such as Point Defiance Park and the Foss Waterway Esplanade, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and boating.

How is the quality of life in Tacoma?

Tacoma is ranked as the fourth-most livable city in Washington State and holds the 11th place for the best place to live in the Pacific Northwest, with a livability score of 743.

What are the reasons people relocate to Tacoma?

Many choose Tacoma because it is affordable compared to other cities, particularly for professionals who work in Seattle but prefer a less costly living situation. Tacoma’s location also makes it convenient to explore nearby cities like Olympia and Bellevue, which are less than an hour’s drive away.

What income is necessary to live comfortably in Tacoma, WA?

To live comfortably in Tacoma, a single adult must earn around $68,358 annually or $32.86 per hour, based on the median rent of $1,708. For a more upscale lifestyle, particularly with the median rent at $2,179 as of February 2024, the required salary increases to $87,146 annually or $41.90 per hour.

GET IN TOUCH