The best neighborhoods in Tacoma are more than just cute or within an easy commuting distance of downtown. If you’re planning a big move, you want to be sure you choose the neighborhood that is best suited to your needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic tastes. Here is our list of the best neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA, to help get you started on your search.
North End
All of North Tacoma is in excellent proximity to the lovely Tacoma waterfront if you like picturesque strolls, as well as being quite close to downtown as well as 6th Ave, which is where you’ll find the biggest attractions, bars, restaurants, and shops. North Tacoma itself has some lovely coffee shops and small boutiques tucked into a more residential area, where you’ll find the median age somewhere mid-30’s and the most highly-sought-after school in the city: Stadium High School. With its Hogwarts-esque castle appearance and view out over the lake, your kids might just need to attend.
Real estate is a bit pricier than other areas of the city, and the median income is around $66,000. Being one of the safest neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA does make it an enticing area for families though.
Downtown Tacoma
And now, for a different flavor: if you prefer to be right in the middle of all the action, settle into your new home alongside the Tacoma Art Museum, Museum of Glass, Bridge of Glass, top-notch restaurants, and theaters. Hop around Pacific Ave on the Light Rail or check out some of what University of Washington – Tacoma has to offer. If you’re worried about commuting to work, living downtown might be the answer to all of your woes, though it also might be one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Tacoma. You’re likely to find condos and apartments downtown that isn’t particularly geared towards families, but if you’re kid-free? It might be just the kind of social vibe you’re looking for.
Old Town
Right next to the Waterfront, Stadium and downtown districts, Old Town is a Tacoma treasure. With relics like Tacoma’s first church and a replica of the Job Carr Cabin, the home of Tacoma’s first settler, residents can literally see and touch the history of this city. Neighborhood taverns and restaurants keep the locals supplied with good food and a relaxed atmosphere while The Tacoma Old Town Rhythm and Blues Festival and other family-oriented events keep the summertime exciting. And if you’re moving cross country with kids, you’ll want to be sure there’s plenty for them to do! Home prices in Old Town are generally in the $300k and above bracket, and the few apartment buildings are in high demand. Most residential houses are condos or homes, and many of them have partial or full views of the waterfront.
New Tacoma
On the other end of the timescale, New Tacoma is the area surrounding the port with some overlap into the Downtown area. With expansive waterfronts mostly dominated by shipping warehouses and infrastructure to fuel the international trade economy, this area is bustling with business. The silver bowl of the Tacoma Dome is visible, and the Pullayup Reservation is on the southeast end. Since this neighborhood covers a pretty diverse range of real estate, you can find everything from luxury condos to older homes or renovated 19th-century gems. Head more toward the Downtown side of the neighborhood and you’ll find all the restaurants, bars, and shopping you want; head towards the port, and you’ll find a slight gritter flavor. There’s a little something for everyone.
