The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Tacoma: Cost, Neighborhoods, Jobs, and More

Tacoma, Washington, USA with Mt. Rainier in the distance on Commencement Bay

Tacoma is a great little city. It’s full of culture, history, art galleries, breweries, and siding on natural beauty.

And guess what? It’s less expensive than Seattle! You get to enjoy all the perks of metro living and still be 15 minutes from the Puget Sound with water views at your fingertips. Whether it’s nature, arts, work, or family, this city is a great place. Live, work and start your family in this city.

This guide is written for families, young professionals, and retirement or comparative movers deciding where to live. We’d cover our experience with the city, and provide some tips when planning your move to this busy metro!

Why Move to Tacoma?

Affordability and Value

Tacoma is a much more affordable option when compared to Seattle, while still being a progressive and safe city. Affordable housing means you can invest in your future in a growing economy. You can enjoy high quality of life without breaking the bank.

Rich Culture and History

Tacoma has history and current culture that offers the best of both. The Museum of Glass and Tacoma Art Museum are famed and have works from both local and international artists. Strolling the downtown streets you can see elements of the old architecture combined with new energy to experience a city with a unique culture.

Outdoor Lifestyle

Outdoor lovers will be right at home in Tacoma. With the Puget Sound and mountain ranges nearby, Tacoma is ideal for anyone seeking opportunities to boat, hike, jog and walk in the park. Green spaces are abundant and by the water, escaping city life is incredibly easy.

Proximity to Metro Areas

Tacoma is perfectly located in between it all. You get the benefit of the chill, affordable city with convenience to larger cities like Seattle. Greater job opportunities, entertainment, coffee shop vibes and culture are all within a short drive.

Cost of Living in Tacoma

Housing Affordability

Tacoma real estate is by far its strongest asset. Whether you’re looking for a great old craftsman, a modern downtown loft, or an amazing waterfront view property, you will find something in almost every price range. Home values have also been increasing steadily, so home ownership can be a pretty safe bet.

Daily Expenses and Utilities

Between utilities, groceries, gas, and real estate taxes, Tacoma is still very cheap compared to what you will pay in bigger cities. You can have a high quality of life without the high cost of somewhere else.

Comparison with Nearby Suburbs

Tacoma is much more affordable than similar suburbs like Puyallup and many parts of Seattle. Even in the more expensive areas, you will find that you still get more for your money.

Tacoma Neighborhoods & Housing Options

Diverse Residential Areas

Tacoma is a city of neighborhoods, each containing its own identity and charm. Whether you love the urban atmosphere or long for the quiet of suburban life – or something in between – you’ll find a community here that suits you. Homes run the full gamut from single-family residences and turn-of-the-20th-century dwellings to condominiums and waterfront living.

Historic Districts

Those who appreciate the past will find Tacoma’s historic neighborhoods, with their tree-lined streets and architecturally distinctive homes that illustrate history while providing modern conveniences, to be the perfect place to be.

Modern and Waterfront Living

Newer communities and waterfront homes possess stylish comfort and offer opportunities for water lovers to boat and kayak in Puget Sound, along with providing up-to-date facilities for residents.

Real Estate Trends

The Tacoma real estate market is healthy, with increasing home values making it an attractive place for buyers and investors and a tight rental market satisfying buyers who aren’t yet in a position to make a purchase.

Tacoma vs. Other Washington Cities

Cost of Living Comparison

Tacoma is incredibly affordable compared to Seattle – which is one of the most expensive places to live in the US. People on a tight budget are attracted by the lower costs.

Commute and Accessibility

There are several highways that pass through Tacoma to Seattle that can take you not only to Seattle but to destinations beyond that. There is a plethora of pretty wide streets and freeways that you can use (if you have a car) to not only get to wherever you need to go, but make it reasonably quick.

Lifestyle and Amenities

You can enjoy the best of both worlds living in Tacoma. It has the smaller city feel yet it has many of the big city’s implements for your lifestyle. Not to mention, you can keep yourself and/or your family fit and active via hiking.

Schools & Education in Tacoma

Public School Excellence

Tacoma Public Schools (TPS) has made great strides through the promotion of a culture of safety, security, and academic excellence. TPS offers over 30 pathways and thematic programs from elementary through high school, along with nearly 200 course options.

Private and Alternative Education

For those that are seeking something different, Tacoma has many private schools and homeschool schools that have a decent-sized community. More likely than not you can find an environment that may offer programs and a class size that you are looking for.

Higher Education Opportunities

There are several high-rated colleges and community colleges in Tacoma.

Jobs & Employment Opportunities in Tacoma

Growing Job Market

Tacoma has a strong, diverse economy featuring major sectors like healthcare, education, manufacturing, technology, and the arts. That diversity provides a wealth of job opportunities in almost any field.

Opportunities for Remote Work

Thanks to the meteoric rise of remote work, more Tacoma professionals than ever work from their own home, or nearby co-working spaces. Which gives workers more options than ever so they can live their best work-life balance in scenic Tacoma.

Support for Small Businesses and Startups

Low overhead and supportive local government has made Tacoma a happening place for would-be entrepreneurs. It’s never been easier to start and grow your business from mom-and-pop shops to tech start-ups.

Competitive Salaries

Wages might be a touch lower than Seattle, but with the much lower cost of living, the typical Tacoma resident lives well without too much financial strain.

Things to Do in Tacoma

Cultural Attractions

Tacoma has a rich cultural landscape. So, have a cultural weekend exploring the Museum of Glass, Tacoma Art Museum, other museums, and historic landmarks.

Outdoor Activities

Nature lovers will love living by the Puget Sound, as there are many parks. These parks are protected and will always be Tacoma’s original gathering place, where humans and nature are meant to come together. Do you want to be in the environment every day? Go on, use your feet, paddle, or pedal.

Local Events and Festivals

Tacoma hosts a wide variety of events every year. Are you looking forward to the Daffodil Festival, Taste of Tacoma, or more seasonal garden shows? Visit one of the city’s many festivals, where local food and drinks, music, and the arts take center stage.

Shopping and Dining

Tacoma is a vibrant mix of places for shopping and eating. Try out the newest trendy locale or the traditional casual café. There are boutiques under the same roof as farmers’ markets featuring large doses of local ingredients. We’ll make sure your meals are more than just tasty (hint: sustainable).

Weather & Climate in Tacoma

Mild, Temperate Climate

Tacoma has a moderate climate with warm (but not hot) summers and cool (but not cold) winters. There are no unpleasant extremes of either temperature or humidity, so you can enjoy living here and doing things here most of the year.

Rainfall and Seasonal Changes

Although it rains in Tacoma – typically during nine months of the year – rainfall here isn’t usually severe and rarely causes big problems. Seasons are noticeable, but they’re smooth, and the year tends to slip from one to the next without drama.

Extreme Weather Considerations

Once in a while, it does rain so heavily that streets flood, and occasional windstorms can be quite a bother. However, there are simple ways to protect yourself from these problems and, overall, little to get in the way of living your life and enjoying a secure environment in Tacoma, WA.

Crime Rates & Safety in Tacoma

Safety and Community Policing

Tacoma has managed to maintain the US average low crime rate, and with its track record of dispatching community based police officers, the neighborhood watch programs are still active and well-liked. This has resulted in a safe city to call home.

Neighborhood-Specific Considerations

You should research some of Tacoma’s neighborhoods before you move here. Look for somewhere you’ll love, but won’t worry about safety unnecessarily.

Practical Safety Tips

There’s little you’ll need to do to keep yourself safe, but you can take a few easy steps — look both ways before you cross the street, lock your doors at night, that sort of thing.

Transportation & Commuting in Tacoma

Road Access and Highways

When it comes to commuting between cities and visiting out-of-town friends and family, Tacoma is miles ahead of other places. Its proximity to the cities and towns can’t be beat.

Public Transportation Options

Tacoma buses and the Tacoma Link Light Rail will make sure you can get back and forth to work no matter where you live in the city. They aren’t exactly New York City in terms of reliability or coverage, but they’ve come a long way and lots of people still use them.

Active Transportation

Walking and biking are also eco-friendly and budget-friendly options in all of the neighborhoods you’ll be looking at in Tacoma, so you’ll be able to get around even if you don’t own a car.

Outdoor Recreation & Tacoma’s Waterfront

Exploring Point Defiance Park

Point Defiance Park is one of Tacoma’s town highlights and is loaded up with miles of climbing and finished gardens. It gives the city an urban escape for large amounts of relaxation and exercise for Tacoma visitors and residents.

Titlow Beach and Waterfront Activities

The waterfront zone of Tacoma, is secured with delightful parks where visitors and residents can appreciate picnics, kayaking, and relaxation strolls. With runs along the shore and huge spots for families to have picnics, Tacoma’s waterfront is a feeling of a home away.

Boating and Fishing

Being near Puget Sound makes it simple for Tacoma water lovers to go sailing and fishing, and appreciate other Seattle group–related exercises. Tacoma is close to docks and marinas can host various water-related experiences like getting water sports rentals or using one of the many docks.

Food & Dining Scene in Tacoma

Diverse Culinary Offerings

Tacoma eating pretty much speaks to how “foodie” Tacoma truly is. All major towns in Tacoma offer a spot for guests to appreciate crisp–seasonal cooking and freshly-sourced sushi Tacoma.

Thriving Coffee Culture

Regardless of where you are in Tacoma, independent coffee houses give fun and sprouting areas to visitors and residents to meet up and taste on newly prepared, locally broiled Tacoma mixtures.

Local Markets and Specialty Shops

Don’t be misled to feel that Tacoma resembles Seattle and neglects to give new items. Regular in Tacoma–visitors and residents can shop for neighborhood natural produce and baked goods from the city’s popular farmers’ market.

Arts, Culture, & Entertainment in Tacoma

World-Class Museums and Galleries

Tacoma’s cultural scene adds to the city’s urban texture. Museum of Glass and the Tacoma Art Museum, are two major museums from the city which makes the composition possible for Tacoma. Both exhibits offer tourists and visitors ongoing participation.

Live Performances and Events

The Tacoma venue includes live music venues and exciting theater productions. Vacationers and Visitors are advised to check the local calendars for live events at the Tacoma Dome and fairs or music festivals in the district.

Real Estate Market Trends in Tacoma

Current Market Conditions

The Tacoma housing market follows a trend of increased home values. Tacoma’s real estate market growth places it as a solid option for first-time and experienced homebuyers or real estate investors looking to strategically locate themselves with lasting value.

New Developments and Modern Amenities

Although the city has maintained its storied past, new construction exists in almost every corner in the region. What might appear as an immediate eyesore to some may actually be a modern masterpiece blending well within Tacoma’s beautiful city limits.

Timing Your Purchase or Sale

Most homebuyers and sellers use both home buying and home selling processes during the spring or early summer. This is generally the time in which the market sees the highest activity. Utilize your Tacoma real estate agent to your best advantage.

Moving Logistics & Practical Tips

Planning Your Move

A relocation goes through seamlessly if it starts with a plan. Draft a to-do list taking you through each step, from packing and researching moving companies to setting up utility services at your new turnkey home. Reducing stress is a given when you have a solid plan at the onset.

Professional Movers vs. DIY

Purposing home moving professionals for your transition or going at your own pace is up to your budget and available resources. Generally, using a company to help you move makes your life easier, especially when you have items you cannot move easily yourself. On the other hand, a personal move saves money, if you have friends and family to help you. Research moving companies and read reviews to make the best choice for you and your family.

Storage Solutions

Should time come between transitions, self storage units in Tacoma offer reliable storage options. Most self-storage units offer both short-term and long-term options complete with climate control storage to preserve your belongings.

Setting Up Residency

After all the fun is over and you are finally done, address forwarding and name changes are in order. For a complete address change checklist, visit your local Department of Licensing office. Also remember to register to vote and set up for utility and internet services so you can get yourself with the community right away.

Pros & Cons of Living in Tacoma

Advantages

It is a reasonably priced city with ample outdoor recreation at your doorstep, affordable living situations, intellectual, cultural, and economic richness, decent job fields, etc. Tacoma makes for a great place to live.

Potential Drawbacks

Some pockets in Tacoma have recently seen an uptick in rent prices due to neighborhood gentrification. Overall, though, it’s more affordable than Seattle, albeit the size of space you get and certain features/amenities may vary. Commutes can get a bit congested during peak hours.

Who Is Tacoma Best Suited For?

If you’re looking for a city where you can comfortably balance urban and suburban living, while still being able to partake in cultural events, make use of ample outdoor recreation, and take advantage of the area’s affordability and friendly, community-based ambiance, then Tacoma is definitely an area to consider. It’s perfect for young professionals, families, and retirees looking for less hubbub and more quality of living at a more affordable rate than what you’d find in Seattle (or other major metropolitan areas).

FAQs About Moving to Tacoma

What is the job market like in Tacoma?

Tacoma has decent job offerings, with its primary industry sectors being healthcare, education, manufacturing, technology, and arts. The option of remote work has opened more doors to those in different (or niche) career choices.

Is Tacoma a good place to raise a family?

For sure! It has all of the aspects families are looking for in a location: affordability, good schools, plenty of outdoor fun, and the bonus of being closely knit. There are safe neighborhoods to live in and family-centric places to go.

How does Tacoma compare to Seattle for housing and amenities?

More affordable housing than Seattle (but plenty of the same shopping, culture, and good variety of elementary, middle, and high schools available). A relaxed, low-key environment – perfect for anyone looking to settle down but escape the feel of a big city (or large suburban area).

What are the best neighborhoods for new residents?

Tacoma’s neighborhoods are diverse. For an urban feel with historical appeal, head down to downtown. The hilltop neighborhood has luxurious, roomy homes and provides a peaceful atmosphere. Go to the waterfront neighborhood if you desire a good view, tranquil community, and easy water access.

Tools & Resources for Living in Tacoma

Cost of Living Calculators
Moving Checklists and Relocation Guides
Real Estate and Rental Search Tools
Storage Solutions and Local Moving Companies

Conclusion

Tacoma offers a superior quality of life, at a fraction of the cost of living in one of the city’s larger neighboring cities. A wealth of museums, culture, outdoor recreation, reasonable housing market, and strong community focus is what draw families, young people, and retirees, to make the move to Tacoma, and call it home.

Before heading to your new destination, check out the neighborhoods, explore what attractions there are to offer, and take in what the Tacoma community stands for – you will only be embraced. With proper planning and the right resources, a move to Tacoma could become one of your family’s best decisions, to date.

GET IN TOUCH