Life in Tacoma
Located just 45 minutes from Seattle, Tacoma is an attractive place to live and visit. The city is packed with museums, art galleries, and top-notch restaurants. It is more affordable than Seattle and a lot less congested, making it an ideal location for those who want big-city amenities without the big-city inconveniences. Many are drawn to Tacoma for its affordably priced homes and gorgeous mountain views. Its close proximity to the exciting city of Seattle also appeals to millennials, young professionals, and families.
Affordable City Living
Living in Tacoma isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s much more affordable than other Washington cities, including Seattle. Though Tacoma’s cost of living is 11% higher than the national average, it’s a staggering 57% cheaper than Seattle and 21% lower than the Washington average. Washington also has no state income tax, which means even more money in your pocket.
Weather
Tacoma boasts a mild climate, with warm summers and mild winters. This makes it possible to enjoy the many outdoor activities all year round. Keep in mind, however, that the area receives an average of 40 inches of rain a year, as well as a fair amount of cloudy skies. That said, snow is very minimal, and the temperatures rarely get below 30 degrees or above 88 degrees.
Stunning Natural Beauty
Tacoma is one of the most picturesque cities in the Pacific Northwest, which is one of the reasons it attracts so many newcomers. With gorgeous views of Mount Rainier and Puget Sound, residents are treated to stunning views no matter where they are in the city. The city is also filled with beautiful parks, gardens, and outdoor recreation areas where residents can go biking, hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, or walking along the beach.
Diverse Cultural Scene
Tacoma has a vibrant and diverse cultural scene with numerous museums, art galleries, and performing arts venues. The Museum of Glass, Tacoma Art Museum, and Broadway Center for the Performing Arts are just a few of the city’s most popular cultural attractions. From spectacular shows to talented musicians, Tacoma has every type of performing art you could want. The city also hosts a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Daffodil Festival, Tacoma Arts Month, the Spirit Native Festival, and the Brew-Five-Three Beer and Blues Festival.
Proximity to Major Cities
Tacoma is conveniently located near several major cities in the region, including Seattle and Portland, making it easy to enjoy the amenities of these major cities while living in a smaller, more affordable city. Though there is plenty to do and see in Tacoma, traveling to surrounding cities and attractions is exciting and easy. You are just a short drive from skiing, boating, fishing, or backpacking at Mt. Rainier National Park or Olympic National Park. You can also enjoy a weekend in the city to go shopping, dine, or explore the various entertainment options in the bigger city.
Best Neighborhoods in Tacoma
Moving to a new city means figuring out which neighborhood will best fit your needs and lifestyle. From restaurants and lifestyle to schools and budgets, here is some helpful information about some of the top neighborhoods in the Tacoma area.
North Tacoma: North Tacoma comprises some of Tacoma’s oldest neighborhoods, including Old Town, Ruston, Stadium District, and North Slope Historic District. These neighborhoods feature some of the best views in the city, as well as easy access to local restaurants and the incredible Ruston Way waterfront.
Downtown: Downtown and its surrounding neighborhoods have a close-knit community feel and are connected with a light rail extension and bike lanes. This is the place to be if you want to be in the heart of all the action and close to art galleries, museums, bars, and restaurants.
South End: This historic neighborhood features beautiful architecture as well as some of the city’s coolest bars and most beautiful streets.
Gig Harbor/Key Peninsula: Located just across the bridge from Tacoma, Gig Harbor, and Key Peninsula are gorgeous areas that offer stunning views and a peaceful maritime setting.
Ready to Move to Tacoma? Allied Van Lines Can Help
Tacoma is a beautiful waterfront city located just 45 minutes from Seattle. Much more affordable than Seattle, Tacoma attracts thousands of new residents every year for its quality of life, excellent schools, and majestic views. If you are ready to make the move to Tacoma, let Allied Van Lines help with your relocation. As a leader in the moving industry for more than 95 years, Allied has the knowledge and experience to make your move as efficient and hassle-free as possible. Allied offers a comprehensive list of moving services to fit any budget, so call today or start by getting a free quote using our convenient Instaquote tool.