November 11, 2022 Posted in Moving Tips

Moving to Tacoma? Here’s All You Need to Know About the City of Destiny

While Tacoma may not be as well known as Seattle or Spokane, it has a lot to offer to newcomers. If you’re considering moving to Tacoma, you’re in for a real treat. This vibrant city is full of interesting attractions, natural beauty, friendly people – and much more. Here’s all you need to know about what makes Tacoma unique and why it might be the right fit for you.

Tacoma Washington State on the map of USA
Before you start planning a move, let us help you learn about Tacoma's exquisiteness

Some Basic Things You Should Know Before Moving to Tacoma

Tacoma is a beautiful city located in the Pacific Northwest. Though it is the third largest city in the state of Washington, it often gets overshadowed by Seattle. However, Tacoma has a lot to offer and is definitely worth considering if you are thinking about relocating to the area. Here are five things you may not have known about Tacoma:

  • The weather is mild year-round – even though it does rain quite a bit here, the winters are milder than in other parts of the country. So, if you’re looking for a place to escape the cold winter months (or uncomfortably hot summers), Tacoma is definitely worth considering.
  • There is a rich arts and culture scene – this city is home to a number of museums and art galleries, as well as several theaters and performing arts venues. If you’re someone who enjoys the arts, you’ll definitely feel at home in Tacoma.
  • The city has a diverse population – people from all walks of life call Tacoma home, which makes for a vibrant and exciting community.
  • Tacoma is a great place to raise a family – the city has excellent schools and plenty of activities for kids and families to enjoy together.
  • It’s named the City of Destiny – Tacoma got its name from the adjacent Mount Rainier, which was formerly referred to as Takhoma or Tahoma by the locals. However, due to the location’s selection as the western end of the Northern Pacific Railroad in the nineteenth century, locals refer to it as the City of Destiny.

Tacoma’s a lived-in, cozy location full of subtleties and eccentricities you’re bound to love. As a bonus, it’s located only a short ride away from Seattle and everything it has to offer – it’s one of the relocation benefits that should not be ignored.

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Where to Settle After the Move? Tacoma’s Best Neighborhoods

The City of Destiny is known for its stunning views of Mount Rainier and Puget Sound, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene. The city also boasts a diverse array of local businesses and restaurants, including many award-winning breweries and distilleries. But where should you look for a home after you choose a relocation company and start planning a move to a new city? Make researching some of the following areas a part of your to-do list:

West End

West End is home to several distinctive eateries and hip bars, but also reasonably priced single-family houses and apartments for those relocating with kids. The largest park in the city, Point Defiance Park is the jewel of the West End. Its huge estate is home to winding pathways, wide meadows, colorful landscapes, and even a beachside crawl. There are several good elementary schools nearby, which is convenient if you have children. At the same time, note as well that West End is only a short drive from Downtown Tacoma, which is perfect for when you have to commute to work.

Eastside-Enact

In this budget-friendly neighborhood, residents can discover Craftsman and Victorian-style homes, as well as farmhouses and modern building residences, besides freshly refurbished historic properties. This area is ideal for those who want to move to a big city with a small-town feel, with larger-than-average lots, a close-knit neighborhood, public parks, and well-kept yards. Whether you want to move to a smaller home or buy a large property, chances are you’ll be able to find it here.

Central

Whether you want to advance in your career or want to find a good entertainment spot, this area may be right for you. It features a wonderful selection of trendy restaurants, entertainment options, and nightlife. It’s a very convenient, popular, and lively neighborhood perfect for those who want to be in the middle of everything while enjoying the amazing food scene.

Northeast Tacoma

One of Tacoma’s safest areas, this neighborhood offers low crime rates, lovely residences, and a variety of outdoor activities. Like North End, this area offers great views of Commencement Bay, as well as a number of water recreation areas and public beaches where locals may enjoy the wonderful weather. Northeast Tacoma is conveniently located for young professionals searching for nearby employment, nightlife, or entertainment due to its proximity to the city center.

There are many factors to consider when choosing the perfect neighborhood – keep in mind that it can greatly affect your quality of life. Therefore, during your relocation day preparation, assess your wishes and possibilities and choose an area where you will be happiest.

View of Mount Rainier from Tacoma's port
Tacoma's a great place to live in, with a lot of wonderful neighbors

Tacoma’s Economy Is Strong, With Plenty of Employment Opportunities

The job market in Tacoma is strong. In recent years, the city has seen a surge in growth and development, which has led to an increase in jobs. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Tacoma is 4.3% (as of September 2022) which is close to the national average.

There are a number of industries that are doing well in Tacoma. The healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing fields in the city. Still, you shouldn’t have a problem finding a job if you’re coming from fields such as technology, manufacturing, hospitality, and retail. According to WalletHub, Tacoma’s among the top 40 cities in the country to start your career in – but also a city with the highest average starting salaries.

On the other hand, keep in mind that Seattle, which is ranked 5th on the same list, is just a short drive away – and so are the tech giants and amazing job opportunities this city has to offer.

What Are Tacoma’s Biggest Employers?

This scenic city on Puget Sound has a lot to offer, and it’s especially true when it comes to its job market – but where to start a search after getting long-distance moving services? Here are just a few suggestions:

  • Multicare Health System – it’s a not-for-profit healthcare organization that operates hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities throughout Pierce County. It is one of the largest private employers in the state of Washington.
  • The Port of Tacoma – it is responsible for managing a large industrial property along the city’s waterfront. The port is a major center for trade and transportation, with a significant number of employees.
  • The City of Tacoma – the city government is responsible for providing many essential services to residents, including public safety, utilities, and infrastructure maintenance. Simultaneously, it’s one of Tacoma’s biggest employers.

For more information on where to search for work after getting packing services and organizing your relocation, watch the following video:

Living in the City of Destiny Is Surprisingly Affordable

There are a lot of factors to consider before making the big decision to move to a new state. However, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of living in a new city. So, to avoid making a big financial relocation mistake, you must know where TAC stands.

According to PayScale, the cost of living in Tacoma is 7% higher than the national average. Considering all this city has to offer, it’s really affordable – especially if you compare it with the closeby Seattle and 53% higher living expenses in it (than the national average). Whether you choose to live on your own after you move to a new city alone, or plan to live with family, it’s likely you’ll meet decent housing prices.

At the same time, keep in mind that Washington doesn’t recognize income tax, so you’ll be able to keep the total amount of your salary after the move. However, note that it has higher rates for other types of taxes. For additional information on Tacoma’s cost of living, take a look at the table below:

Expenses Average Price
Median Home Price $433,000
Median Rent $1,322
Monthly Transportation Pass (Regular Price) $58
Monthly Utilities $185
Childcare $1,000

Getting Around the City Is Easy – Just Not on Foot

It is not a good idea to try to navigate Tacoma on foot. Since everything is rather dispersed, having a car or taking public transportation is advised.

This city has a comprehensive and well-organized public transportation system. The Tacoma Link Light Rail runs through downtown every twelve minutes or even shorter during peak hours. There are also a number of bus routes and two ferry terminals in Tacoma—the Point Defiance Ferry Terminal and the Tahlequah Ferry Terminal. For air travel purposes, you can use Tacoma Narrows Airport, as well as Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Unfortunately, Tacoma’s traffic is as bad as Seattle’s. The average one-way commuting time here is 28.1 minutes. Therefore, whether you wish to get car shipping services and utilize your vehicle after the move or use public transport, arm yourself with patience.

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TAC Also Offers Great Basic and Higher Education Options

If you have kids, researching local schools should not be one of the things you forget to do, even if you have a last-minute move. Tacoma Public School District is one of the biggest in the state, with plenty of highly-ranked primary, middle, and high schools to choose from. Its goals include collaborating with parents and the community to improve the children’s learning experience, early evaluation and intervention for kids, as well as creating a safe learning environment.

On the other hand, if you want to move to college, keep in mind Tacoma has a rather excellent lineup. Among the best universities are the Community College of Tacoma, the University of Puget Sound, Washington University Tacoma, and Pacific Lutheran University

school-supplies-gathered
The City of Destiny offers excellent learning establishments

When It Comes to Entertainment, Girt City Offers Something for Everyone

This city has a lot to offer in terms of entertainment. From museums and art galleries to movie theaters and live music venues, there’s something for everyone. Here are some entertainment options in this wonderful city you should check after hiring a long-distance moving company and organizing a move:

  • Museum of Glass – this museum is dedicated to the art of glassmaking, and it features both permanent and rotating exhibitions. You can also watch live glassmaking demonstrations, which are sure to be fascinating.
  • Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium – home to more than 9,000 animals, including tigers, lions, bears, and reptiles. The aquarium portion of the zoo features sharks, fish, and other marine creatures.
  • Tacoma Art Museum – for all the art lovers out there, this museum is a must-visit destination. This museum features exhibitions of artwork from around the world.
  • Tempest Lounge – if you wish to spend your time in a sophisticated ambiance with great cocktails in your hands and good company, make sure to check this place.
  • Children’s Museum of Tacoma – it offers hands-on exhibits and interactive experiences designed to engage and educate children of all ages. Kids can enjoy building their own structures and learning more about the natural world, as well as many other things.
  • Jazzbones Comedy Club & Restaurant – this club features nationally touring comedians as well as up-and-coming local talent. You can also enjoy a delicious meal while you watch the show.
  • Kandle Park – enjoy all this amazing place has to offer, including the playground, walking trails, and wave park

For additional fun things to do after making this city your home, take a look at the following video:

FAQ

Are people moving from San Francisco to Tacoma?

In recent years, many have decided to leave SF for the City of Destiny due to the more affordable housing market. Additionally, Tacoma offers a thriving art and cultural scene and is conveniently located near outdoor recreational areas. These factors make it an attractive option for those planning a move due to the high cost and fast pace of San Francisco.

Are people moving from Los Angeles to Tacoma?

Although people often choose to get movers from California to Seattle and move to Seattle, note that a portion of ex-Californians tends to choose TAC for a new home. At the same time, keep in mind that the number of people who decide to get movers from Seattle to California is also significant, due to LA’s sunny weather and cultural attractions.

Are people moving from Seattle to Tacoma?

There has been some migration from Seattle to Tacoma in recent years, as Tacoma has seen a surge in economic growth and development. Additionally, the cost of living and housing prices in Tacoma tend to be lower than in Seattle – and Emerald City is just a short drive away.

Get Help From Professional Cross-Country Movers and Have the Best Relocation Experience

Planning a cross-country move can be daunting and tiring, but with the help of professional long-distance movers, it can become less challenging. Hiring a reputable and experienced cross-country moving company will ensure you move efficiently. A professional team will take care of all of your belongings and provide you with the best possible experience. If you’re looking for peace of mind and stress-free relocation, hire the best in the business and relax while they handle logistics and all the hard work involved in the move.

Milly Andrews

Milly is a Portland prodigy of packing and relocating! She has been on the move her whole life, and she's got the moving boxes and stories to prove it. With her vast experience in the art of relocation, she's like a human GPS, always finding the most efficient way to navigate the moving process.

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