Tacoma, WA

Tacoma, WA

Updated May 1, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$535K

Median Price

81/100

Walk Score

6.3/10

Schools

60 min

to Seattle, WA

Score Breakdown

FAffordability
15/100
DQuietness
40/100
D+Commute
55/100
D+Safety
55/100
CSchools
63/100
B+Walkability
81/100
WYLT Score52/100

Our Take

Tacoma offers great walkability and public transit, but the cost of living far outpaces median income. Crime rates and unemployment are higher than average, making it a tougher place for families and buyers. Renters may find the high rents burdensome, so careful budgeting is needed.

Map

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The Good

  • Very walkable with many shops and services within a 10‑minute walk
  • Excellent public transit and bike lanes for commuters
  • Diverse community with a mix of cultures and languages
  • Good access to waterfront parks and outdoor recreation

Real Talk

  • !Median home price is 9 times median household income, which is steep for buyers
  • !Unemployment rate around 9% and crime stories suggest higher risk than many nearby neighborhoods
  • !Monthly rent of $1,385 is high relative to median income, tightening renter budgets
  • !Noise and traffic can be a daily nuisance in denser parts of the district
  • $Higher property taxes and insurance due to older infrastructure
  • $Utilities tend to be above state average because of HVAC costs in older buildings
  • $Occasional maintenance costs for shared facilities and older public spaces

Best For

Young professionalsUrban commutersWalkersDiversity seekers

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow
Violent crimeModerate
Property crimeModerate
Air qualityGood
Price volatilityHigh

Crime & Safety

Tacoma, WA

D+

Safety grade

Safety score55 / 100
High riskVery safe
⚠️Violent Crime
Moderate
3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (3.7)11+

5% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime
Moderate
19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (19.5)59+

2% higher than the national average

Verify with real-time data

Rates are estimated from neighborhood characteristics using national FBI baselines. Actual figures vary by block — always verify with local sources before making decisions.

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From Residents

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