What BestPlaces Users Say about Tacoma
Tacoma, Washington is a mid-sized port city located 32 miles southwest of Seattle. With a population of over 213,000 people, it offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with a diverse culture and a strong job market. The city boasts beautiful views of Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound, as well as a variety of outdoor activities and a thriving arts scene. However, like any city, it has its pros and cons, and the following user reviews offer a glimpse into what it's like to live in Tacoma.
Overall, many users seem to have a positive experience living in Tacoma. One reviewer, Chris, shares on bestplaces.net that "Tacoma is a wonderful place to live. It has a unique blend of natural beauty, great food, and friendly people. There is always something to do and see here." Similarly, another user named Sarah states that "Tacoma offers a great quality of life, with a lower cost of living compared to Seattle. The job market is strong and the community is welcoming."
However, some users have expressed concerns about safety in certain areas of Tacoma. According to David, "Tacoma has its rough areas, but the city has been working hard to improve them. Overall, I feel safe and enjoy living here." Another user, Jessica, also notes that "while there are nice areas in Tacoma, there are also areas that are not as safe. It's important to do your research before deciding where to live."
In addition to safety, the cost of housing and traffic are also commonly mentioned by users. As Kayla shares, "housing in Tacoma is affordable, although it is getting more expensive. Traffic can be a headache during rush hour, but overall it's manageable." Similarly, Maria adds that "the cost of living in Tacoma is reasonable, but it can be tough to find affordable housing in desirable areas. Commuting can also be a challenge, but there are public transportation options available."
In conclusion, while Tacoma may have its drawbacks, it seems to offer a good balance of city living and outdoor attractions. As user John states, "Tacoma has a unique charm that draws people in. It's not perfect, but it has something for everyone." With its growing economy and diverse community, Tacoma seems to be a desirable place to call home for many individuals.
based on 40 ReviewsGet to know Tacoma with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Tacoma
Tacoma! - 2/2/2008
I'm not going to lie here I know Tacoma like the back of my hand and that means I know all about the crime (which is in a decrease) and the aroma. The aroma of Tacoma! The city can smell and the crime here is higher than any other city in the Pacific Northwest region. Other than this the city is enjoyable on a sunny day (Yes this is WA so there is rain and clouds). The downtown went through a makeover and Point Defiance Park and Zoo is way above exceptional. There are many things to do here and it is a stop for most "Road Tours" of famous bands due to the Tacoma Dome, the largest stadium in the state. Compared to the rest of the state traffic here is horrible, especially if you are coming from the south and heading north to Seattle. Tacoma has it's good parts and it's bad parts but if you look I think you'll see why so many call this city
Read More
Start Your Review of Tacoma
Tacoma is best kept secret - 2/14/2007
I've lived in numerous parts of the country and always come back to Tacoma. Get off of the freeway and look around. It has everything to offer and is on it's way up with a revitalized downtown. The most affordable city with the beauty of the Northwest is
Read More
I miss this place! - 11/28/2006
I lived in Tacoma for 4 years from 1997-2002. As a transplanted easterner, I was a little less than thrilled at first, but it quickly grew on me and I was very sorry to leave in the end. The geographic setting is beautiful -- mountains on one side, ocean on the other. Winter is DARK and rainy, but is more than made up for by the best summers anywhere (warm but not really hot, sunny, sunny, sunny, no humidity). Just when we were leaving, the city was really starting to pick up with a lot of downtown rennovation, UW campus, and more amenities. I've been back to visit since, and it's really looking good. The only downside to the area is the horrible 24-7 traffic on I-5 and other hightways. I always thought the ironic thing about Tacoma was the huge chip it has on its shoulder about not being Seattle -- Tacoma is MUCH more liveable than it's northern neighbor! Would love to go back, but unfortunately the housing boom in the last couple years has put most decent housing out of
Read More
"City of Destiny" - 11/24/2006
I moved to downtown Tacoma almost 3 years ago for my job. I prefer the feel of a larger 'happening' city, and If it wasn't for the traffic on I-5, I probably would have lived up in Seattle (up the road about 45 minutes). That said, I'm extremely happy with Tacoma. I purchased one of the new condo lofts that started going up about the time that I'd gotten here. Since then, development has been non-stop...renovations everywhere, top-notch restaurants, and the local University satellite (UW at Tacoma) going to a full 4-year accredited college. I believe that that prices have met the demand recently, and although the area would have been a better 'deal' a couple years ago, I THINK that it's still competitive. Especially considering what you have so close at hand: the beautiful commencement bay, effective public trans (to include a light rail, and a commuter train between hear and Seattle), a brand new and very active art museum, point defiance park, historical communities, and
Read More
Gangs are in control of Eastside - 10/19/2006
The gangs run the Eastside of Tacoma. Most people in this area live in fear. Four attacks in the last week. You hear gunshots at night from drive bys. The cops do nothing and it is the opinion of most that they are in fear of the gangs. They would like you to think that they have cleaned up the police department but I don't think so. Not a place to raise a family. If your thinking of moving here, save yourself the heartache and
Read More
My Scoop on Tacoma - 5/26/2006
The city of Tacoma is finally rapidly changing, for the better! Very expensive condos are going in wherever they can tuck them, as well as new commercial buildings. The Port & the RR are very busy. Public transportation is excellent. Many people moved here & commute to Seattle because housing was much cheaper. However, housing needs has met demand & prices skyrocketed. Also, we have freeway gridlock during peak hours.
There are many good things about Tacoma & a few not so good. Crime & taxes are both high. Downtown is improving but some of the neighborhoods have a long way to
Read More
Most Improved City - 1/31/2006
Tacoma has redeemed itself from the old stereotype of "Aroma of Tacoma" due to the paper mill industry in downtown area. Visiting it for the past two years, the city has indeed cleaned up and the view of the Tacoma Bay is breathtaking especially from my mother in law's home on a hilltop facing Vashon Island. Point Defiance is like a heaven for avid walkers and runners, it's like looking at a real life postcard picture :). If only I could have that in San Antonio, TX but the scenery in this lovely city is just great! Need not to mention that everything is so green and there are wonderful coffee shops just about everywhere (at least in the North end of
Read More
crime - 1/2/2006
Why is crime in Tacoma so high? When I compare it to national averages as well as to certain other cities it doesn't look very favorably, especially on rapes and property
Read More