Reasons To Move To Tacoma

Mount Rainier over Tacoma Washington waterfront during alpenglow sunset evening

Situated along Washington’s stunning Puget Sound, Tacoma is a vibrant port city with a population of 222,906 as of 2023. Located just 32 miles southwest of Seattle, Tacoma is often referred to as the “City of Destiny” due to its historical significance as the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century. Today, it continues to live up to its name, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and modern urban amenities.

Tacoma is well known for its thriving arts scene, breathtaking outdoor spaces, and deep-rooted history. Whether you’re exploring the world-famous Museum of Glass, enjoying the lively atmosphere of Sixth Avenue’s restaurants and music venues, or adventuring through the majestic landscapes of Mount Rainier National Park, Tacoma has something for everyone. Annual events like the Destiny City Film Festival, Tacoma Ocean Fest, and the city’s exciting Fourth of July celebrations bring the community together, highlighting the city’s dynamic and welcoming spirit.

For those considering a move, Tacoma offers an exceptional quality of life, diverse job opportunities, and a strong sense of community. Here are all the best reasons to move to Tacoma, Washington!

Why Move To Tacoma

People are drawn to Tacoma for a variety of reasons, often finding something about the city that aligns with their personal, familial, or professional aspirations. Whether it’s a desire for a fresh start, needing to move closer to family and friends, better educational opportunities, or simply a change of scenery, Tacoma has a way of attracting people who are looking for something different. Some move there after visiting and feeling an immediate connection, while others choose it as a place to put down roots after considering other cities, such as San Jose or Portland. The city’s atmosphere, unique character, and sense of community often play a role in why people decide to make it their home.

Pros of Living in Tacoma

Tacoma has a unique character that blends urban convenience with its surrounding natural beauty, attracting new residents from all over the world. The city offers a variety of opportunities and experiences that appeal to professionals, families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking for career growth, cultural attractions, or recreational activities, Tacoma has something to offer.

Strong Job Market

Tacoma offers a diverse and growing job market, providing opportunities across several major industries. The city has a strong presence in healthcare, aerospace, and military employment, with Joint Base Lewis-McChord being a significant employer for those who live in the Tacoma area. Tacoma’s tech sector is also expanding, creating demand for software engineers, cybersecurity analysts, and AI developers. The median household income in Tacoma was $83,857 in 2023, and software engineers in the area earn an average salary of $103,158, making the city a very attractive option for professionals seeking to grow their careers.

Good Schools

For families with children, Tacoma offers a variety of highly rated educational opportunities. The city has a total of 263 schools, many of which are rated 7 out of 10 or higher, according to GreatSchools. This high rating indicates a strong academic performance amongst students. Tacoma’s schools offer various specialized programs, including STEM and arts-focused curriculums, giving students a wide range of learning opportunities. With a mix of public, private, and charter schools, parents have options to find the best fit for their child’s education.

Outdoor Recreation and Family Activities

Tacoma is home to a wide range of outdoor attractions and family-friendly activities. The Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium allows visitors to see an impressive variety of animals while enjoying breathtaking views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier. The Foss Waterway Seaport and the Museum of Glass offer engaging experiences for all ages that highlight Tacoma’s maritime and artistic heritage and current culture. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the city’s waterfront areas for paddle boarding, biking, and kayaking, while Mount Rainier National Park is just a short drive away for hiking and nature exploration.

Manageable Traffic

Compared to Seattle, Tacoma’s traffic is generally considered more manageable, which is a major advantage for commuters. While congestion can occur during peak hours, particularly on I-5, many residents report that getting around the city is less stressful than in larger metropolitan areas, like Seattle. Tacoma’s size and layout make it possible to maneuver through the city without experiencing the gridlock that is common in nearby Seattle. Additionally, public transportation options, including buses and commuter trains, provide alternative ways to travel efficiently.

Mild Summers

Tacoma experiences comfortable summer weather, making it an enjoyable place for outdoor activities. According to Weather Spark, with average summer temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, residents can take advantage of the many parks, waterfront areas, and recreational activities without having to endure extreme heat. The city’s climate allows for pleasant hikes, bike rides, and other outdoor adventures throughout the summer months. Unlike many other parts of the country, Tacoma rarely experiences excessive heat waves, which makes summers more bearable and enjoyable.

Cons of Living in Tacoma

While Tacoma offers strong job opportunities, great outdoor spaces, and a manageable commute, potential residents should carefully consider the cons of living in Tacoma. Each person’s priorities and lifestyle preferences will determine whether Tacoma is the right place to call home.

High Cost of Living

Despite being more affordable than Seattle, Tacoma’s cost of living is still significantly higher than the national average, according to PayScale.com. Overall, living costs in Tacoma are 28% above the national average, with housing expenses being the most significant factor. The median home price in Tacoma is $801,335, which is 61% higher than the national median, making homeownership challenging for many buyers. Renters also face high costs, with the median rent at $2,436 per month, while groceries and transportation are also priced above the national average, adding to overall living expenses.

Crime Rate

One of Tacoma’s biggest challenges is its high crime rate, which is significantly above both the state and national averages. In Tacoma, the chances of being a victim of violent crime are 1 in 81, compared to 1 in 280 in Washington state as a whole. Property crime is also a major issue, with 1 in 14 people falling victim, making it one of the highest property crime rates in the country. Car theft is especially prevalent, with residents facing a 1 in 34 chance of having their vehicle stolen, which is amongst the highest rates in the United States.

Cold, Wet Winters

Tacoma’s winters can be long, cold, and wet, which may not appeal to everyone. The city experiences frequent rain, with overcast skies being common throughout the winter months. Average temperatures during the winter range from 27 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning that residents often deal with chilly and damp conditions. While snow is rare, the persistent rain and lack of sunshine can contribute to seasonal affective disorder for some people who are sensitive to gloomy weather.

Moving to Tacoma? SecureSpace Self Storage is Here to Help!

Moving to Tacoma can be an exciting but stressful time in your life, just like moving anywhere else. Whether you’re relocating for work or school, or simply need a change of scenery, finding the right place to live in the Tacoma area can take time. If you need extra space while you get settled or are moving into an apartment with limited storage, renting a storage unit in Tacoma can be a simple and effective solution.

At SecureSpace Self Storage, we provide secure, convenient, and affordable storage units in Tacoma to make your move easier and less stressful. Whether you need a short-term storage option while transitioning to a new home or long-term storage for seasonal items or while you are renting an apartment, our team is here to help.

Convenient Locations in Tacoma

We have multiple storage unit locations in Tacoma to serve your storage needs:

📍 220 112th St E, Tacoma, WA 98445

📍 2201 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA 98409

With our clean, climate-controlled units and top-notch security features in our Tacoma storage units, you can have peace of mind knowing your most prized belongings are safe. No matter your storage needs, our team at SecureSpace Self Storage in Tacoma is here to help you make your move to Tacoma as smooth as possible.

GET IN TOUCH