Let the numbers do the talking.
Sammamish, WA vs Tacoma, WA
Sammamish, WA vs Tacoma, WA: What the data shows
Sammamish, WA is in Sammamish, WA while Tacoma, WA is in Tacoma, WA — both in the same state. On home prices, Tacoma, WA is the more affordable option at $534,500 median — $753,700 less than Sammamish, WA's $1,288,200. WYLT rates Sammamish, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Tacoma, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Sammamish, WA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Sammamish, WA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Tacoma, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Sammamish, WA has Low flood risk and Tacoma, WA has Low flood risk.
Tacoma, WA is the more walkable neighborhood. Sammamish, WA scores 41/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Tacoma, WA's 81/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, Sammamish, WA has the higher school rating — Sammamish, WA rates 8.5/10 and Tacoma, WA rates 6.3/10.
| Category | Sammamish, WA | Tacoma, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.29M | $535K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $234K ✓ Higher income | $57K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 41/100 | 81/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 24/100 | 75/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 72/100 ✓ More bikeable | 62/100 |
| Commute | 50 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.3/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesTech ProfessionalsRemote Workers | Young professionalsUrban commutersWalkers |
Bottom line
For families and high-income earners prioritizing top-rated schools, Sammamish may be the better choice despite its high cost and limited public transit. However, for young professionals and urban commuters who value walkability and diversity, Tacoma's vibrant atmosphere and relatively more affordable housing may be a better fit, if they can navigate its higher crime rates and cost of living. Ultimately, the decision depends on what you're willing to compromise on.
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