Top Five Reasons You Should Move to Tacoma, Washington

If you’re looking for a city with a perfect balance of urban excitement, natural beauty, and affordability, Tacoma, Washington, should be at the top of your list. Located just 30 miles south of Seattle, Tacoma offers a high quality of life without the sky-high cost of living. Here are the top five reasons you should consider making Tacoma your next home.

1. A Strong Real Estate Market with Affordable Housing

One of the biggest draws to Tacoma is its more affordable housing market compared to Seattle. While Seattle’s median home price continues to soar well past $800,000, Tacoma offers a much more accessible market, with median home prices typically in the $450,000–$550,000 range (as of recent reports).

Tacoma is also considered a strong market for homebuyers, with steady appreciation in home values, making it a great investment. The city has a mix of historic homes, modern condos, and new developments, offering something for every buyer. With relatively lower property taxes compared to other metro areas and Washington’s lack of a state income tax, homeownership in Tacoma becomes even more appealing. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking for a long-term investment, Tacoma offers excellent opportunities in real estate.

2. A Thriving Arts and Culture Scene

Tacoma is a hub for creativity, with a rich arts and culture scene that rivals larger cities. The Museum of Glass, designed by world-renowned architect Arthur Erickson, showcases stunning glass art, while the Tacoma Art Museum features works from both local and international artists. History lovers will appreciate the Washington State History Museum, offering deep dives into the region’s past.

For performing arts, Tacoma’s historic Pantages Theater, Rialto Theater, and Theater on the Square bring Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances to the city. Whether you're into visual arts, music, or theater, Tacoma has a thriving cultural scene to keep you engaged.

3. Outdoor Paradise for Nature Lovers

Living in Tacoma means having access to some of the best outdoor experiences in the Pacific Northwest. The city’s waterfront along Ruston Way is perfect for walking, biking, and dining with a view of Puget Sound. Point Defiance Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, offers miles of hiking trails, scenic beaches, and the beloved Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.

If you’re into mountain adventures, Mount Rainier National Park is just a 90-minute drive away, offering world-class hiking, skiing, and breathtaking scenery. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are also popular activities in the area, with plenty of lakes and rivers nearby.

4. Booming Job Market and Business Growth

Tacoma’s economy is thriving, offering job opportunities in healthcare, technology, education, and shipping/logistics. The Port of Tacoma is one of the largest ports on the West Coast, driving economic growth and employment. MultiCare Health System and CHI Franciscan provide thousands of jobs in healthcare, while the University of Washington Tacoma contributes to the city’s growing education and research sector.

For those in the tech industry, Tacoma is also experiencing an increase in startups and remote work opportunities, offering a more affordable option compared to Seattle while still being close to major tech hubs.

5. A Strong Sense of Community and Local Charm

Unlike some bigger cities, Tacoma maintains a close-knit community feel. Its neighborhoods, from the historic Stadium District to the charming Proctor area, are filled with local shops, farmers’ markets, and community events. The Dome District and 6th Ave offer trendy restaurants, coffee shops, and live music venues, making it easy to connect with others.

Tacoma is known for being welcoming and diverse, with a strong sense of pride in its local businesses, arts, and history. Community events like the Tacoma Night Market and the Taste of Tacoma food festival bring people together and highlight the city’s vibrant culture.

Final Thoughts

Tacoma is an incredible place to live, offering affordability, culture, outdoor adventure, job opportunities, and a strong community. If you’re looking for a city that provides a great quality of life without the hefty price tag of Seattle, Tacoma is a fantastic choice. Plus, with its growing real estate market, now is a great time to buy a home and invest in this up-and-coming city.

Would you consider moving to Tacoma? Let us know in the comments!