Best Anchorage to Tacoma Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving city to city morphs the fabric of your life into an exciting tapestry of new experiences. You're transitioning from Anchorage's wild, natural beauty and 'The Last Frontier' charm, to Tacoma's vibrant urban canvas and the gateway to the Pacific Northwest's wonders. Understanding the pivotal role trusted and reliable professional movers play in such a significant journey is crucial; that's why we at Great Guys Moving ensure you're matched with the best, taking the guesswork out of your hands for this long-distance adventure.
Best Anchorage to Tacoma Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Volken Academy Movers | 9.34 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| First Due Movers | 9.26 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| The Moving Man | 7.82 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Air Van Moving | 6.85 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Royal Alaskan Movers | 6.46 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to Anchorage guide.
5 Best Anchorage to Tacoma Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington f...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
About The Moving Man
The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...Read More >>
Services
- Local Residential Moving
- Local Commercial Moving
- Out-of-State Moves
About Air Van Moving
Air Van Moving is a professional moving company that is based in Alaska and the Northwest. Whether it is across town, across the country, or...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
- Long-Distance Moves
About Royal Alaskan Movers
Royal Alaskan Movers is a professional moving company that has been serving clients in Anchorage, Alaska, and its surrounding areas since 20...Read More >>
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2077580 / FF-10566
725677 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 13 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 92,150 (2022) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Anchorage vs. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison
Deciding to move from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you’re not familiar with your new home’s neighborhoods. This guide aims to ease that transition. By comparing local neighborhoods between Anchorage, AK & Tacoma, WA , we'll help you find a new area that feels like home, using your current neighborhood as a baseline for comparison.
| Anchorage | Tacoma | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| South Addition | North End | Historic homes, close-knit community |
| Rogers Park | Proctor | Vibrant shopping, dining options |
| Turnagain | Old Town | Scenic views, waterfront access |
| Bootleggers Cove | Stadium District | Urban feel, historic sites |
| Hillside East | Skyline | Tranquil settings, luxury homes |
| Mid-Hillside | West Slope | Quiet neighborhoods, expansive views |
| Spenard | Hilltop | Cultural diversity, eclectic vibe |
| Oceanview | Ruston | Waterfront activities, community feel |
| Bear Valley | Point Defiance | Parks, nature reserves |
| Bayshore/Klatt | Browns Point | Quiet communities, beach access |
For those moving from Anchorage’s South Addition to Tacoma, the North End provides a seamless transition with its historic homes and tight-knit community feel, reminiscent of Anchorage's charm. In Tacoma's Proctor, similar to Rogers Park, you’ll be greeted with vibrant shopping and dining options, featuring establishments like Metropolitan Market for your gourmet needs and the historic Blue Mouse Theatre for entertainment. If waterfront living and scenic views are what you loved in Turnagain, Old Town Tacoma offers a captivating waterfront experience, highlighted by attractions like the Job Carr Cabin Museum that brings in a touch of history. Moving from Anchorage’s eclectic Spenard to Tacoma’s Hilltop, you’ll find a similarly diverse cultural scene, with spots such as the Tacoma Art Museum elevating your living experience with a dose of creativity and history.
Things to Do in Tacoma
Explore Point Defiance Park- Visit Museum of Glass
- Stroll along Ruston Way Waterfront
- Shop at Proctor District
- Catch a movie at The Grand Cinema
- Enjoy America's Car Museum
- Attend Tacoma Art Walk
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Anchorage to Tacoma
Moving from one city to another comes with its share of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to mirror the transition between Anchorage, AK, and Tacoma, WA , offering an honest reflection on the good and the bad aspects of making such a move.
Anchorage, AK- Long, dark winters
- Remote location
- Higher cost of living
- Less urban amenities
Tacoma, WA- Milder winters
- More accessible
- Lower living expenses
- More urban amenities
Tacoma, WA- More urbanized
- Fewer wilderness areas
- More traffic
- Bigger population
Anchorage, AK- Natural beauty
- Outdoor activities
- Less traffic
- Small community
Moving from Anchorage to Tacoma exchanges the vast wilderness and tight-knit community for a more urban environment abundant with amenities. While you might miss the seclusion and direct access to nature, Tacoma welcomes you with vibrant neighborhoods like the Proctor District, where you can browse local shops like Proctor District, or the Ruston Way Waterfront, perfect for scenic walks. Dining options are vast too, from the cozy brunch spot Art House Café to the delicious seafood at Duke’s Seafood. Plus, Tacoma's significantly more accessible location compared to Anchorage’s remote setting makes travel and logistics easier for residents and visitors alike.
Anchorage vs. Tacoma Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Anchorage & Tacoma, underscoring food as a critical aspect of local culture and living experience. As you plan your move, this guide provides insights into what culinary delights await you in your new city.
| Anchorage | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | King Crab | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Reindeer Sausage | Pacific Northwest Salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Halibut Tacos | Teriyaki |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Kimchi Stew | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Anchorage, the seafood, especially king crab and reindeer sausage, reflects the rich bounty of Alaska's waters and forests. Places like the Glacier Brewhouse embody the city's culinary spirit. Tacoma, by contrast, brings the Pacific Northwest's love of seafood together with a more pronounced Asian influence, such as the popular teriyaki street food. The city's food scene is vibrant, with an assortment of vegan options like the vegan pho found in the Hilltop neighborhood and the creative plates served at Pacific Grill. Both cities boast a growing foodie scene, but if you're moving from Anchorage to Tacoma, you'll find an increase in food truck varieties and vegan-friendly options, reflecting Tacoma's slightly more health-conscious and diverse culinary ethos.
Anchorage vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home, and discovering new favorite eateries is part of the adventure. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition from Anchorage to Tacoma by matching top dining experiences, helping you indulge in familiar tastes or explore new flavors that could soon become your go-to spots.
| Anchorage | Tacoma | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria | The Rock Wood Fired Pizza | Similar vibrant atmosphere with unique pizza offerings |
| Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill | The Lobster Shop | Both offer stunning views and a selection of fine seafood |
| Glacier Brewhouse | 7 Seas Brewery and Taproom | Both showcase craft beers and hearty American cuisine |
| Snow City Café | Over the Moon Cafe | Cozy, with a focus on fresh, comfort food |
| Jens' Restaurant | Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Offers an upscale dining experience with exquisite flavors |
| Spenard Roadhouse | The Table | Modern comfort food with a creative twist |
| Crush Bistro | Marrow Kitchen Bar | Both known for their innovative cocktails and refined menu |
| The Rustic Goat | Metro Coffee | Quirky atmosphere with high-quality, comfort menu options |
| Club Paris | El Gaucho Tacoma | Fine dining with a focus on steaks and luxurious ambience |
| Bear Tooth Theatrepub | Dystopian State Brewing Co. | Combines entertainment with unique brews and bites |
When exploring Tacoma's dining scene, the transformation of familiar flavors into new experiences becomes apparent. For instance, at The Rock Wood Fired Pizza, the adventurous toppings and rock and roll theme offer a unique twist reminiscent of Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria in Anchorage. Similarly, The Lobster Shop echoes the premium seafood dining experience of Simon & Seafort's, but with the Puget Sound as your backdrop, offering a distinct Northwest touch. These comparisons not only highlight the culinary diversity awaiting you in Tacoma but also promise a seamless transition, ensuring you'll always find a place that feels like coming home for a meal.
Ready to start your move?
Anchorage vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your relocation journey, making it crucial to compare Anchorage, AK and Tacoma, WA in terms of housing. This comparison will delve into costs, architectural styles, and the lifestyle each city offers, giving you a clearer picture of your potential new home.
| Comparison | Anchorage | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Cabin and Modern | Victorian and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious Land, Mountain Views | Access to Public Transport, Historic Neighborhoods |
When moving from Anchorage to Tacoma, you'll notice a shift from spacious, cabin-style homes surrounded by nature to more urban, craftsman, and Victorian homes nestled in historic neighborhoods. Tacoma, with its higher walkability and bikeability scores, offers a more urban lifestyle. In Tacoma, you're likely to enjoy easier access to public transportation and bike lanes, reflecting the city's commitment to sustainability. Meanwhile, Anchorage's real estate highlights spacious lands and breathtaking mountain views, catering to those who seek a blend of modern living and nature's tranquility. This contrast not only influences your day-to-day life but also your longer-term lifestyle choices.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA
1. North End: With its sprawling Ruston Way Waterfront and multiple dog-friendly parks, North End offers you and your pet ample green space and scenic walks along Commencement Bay.
2. Proctor District: The walkable neighborhood vibe of the Proctor District is enhanced by its pet-friendly businesses and the nearby Point Defiance Park, offering endless outdoor adventures for you and your furry friend.
3. Stadium District: Known for its historic charm, the Stadium District features pet-friendly cafes and easy access to Wright Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners who enjoy urban living with a touch of nature.
Anchorage vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations
When relocating from Anchorage, AK to Tacoma, WA, it's crucial to grasp how the weather compares between these cities. This comparison will help you understand how to prepare for your new climate.
Anchorage, AK
Tacoma, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Anchorage, AK
Tacoma, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Anchorage, AK
Tacoma, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Anchorage, AK
Tacoma, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Anchorage | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Avalanches | Earthquakes, Volcanic Eruptions |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Anchorage to Tacoma, you'll find Tacoma's winters milder and less snowy, enhancing outdoor activities year-round. The increase in yearly rainfall in Tacoma contributes to its lush, green landscape but also means more overcast days. Both cities share a similar average annual UV index, indicating similar protective measures against UV exposure are necessary. Adjusting to these weather differences will be a significant aspect of your relocation.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Anchorage to Tacoma
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to outline how the cost of living, taxes, and economy in Anchorage versus Tacoma could affect your budget and lifestyle. Grasping these differences will ensure a smoother transition and help you manage your finances more effectively in your new home.
| Comparison | Anchorage | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $86,654 | $77,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 128.4 | 109.5 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.18 | 1.29 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 10.2 |
| Top 3 Industries | Oil & Gas, Tourism, Military | Healthcare, Technology, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to High |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Significant |
Although the average household income is higher in Anchorage compared to Tacoma, the cost of living index also reflects a higher expense rate in Anchorage. Notably, residents in both cities enjoy a 0% state income tax, offering a financial reprieve in that aspect. However, Tacoma challenges residents with a significantly higher sales tax rate, which can affect daily and large purchases. The contrast in leading industries between the two cities highlights potential career opportunities or shifts you may consider. Despite these differences, both cities present unique financial landscapes that warrant careful consideration and planning before making a move.
Anchorage vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison
When considering the move from Anchorage, AK to Tacoma, WA, understanding the community you're entering is crucial. This quick comparison aims to give you a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Anchorage & Tacoma, helping you grasp the local ethos at a glance.
| Anchorage | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Mix of Republican and Democratic representation | Dominantly Democratic representation |
| Religion | Diverse, with Christianity being predominant | Varied, with a significant non-religious community |
As you move from Anchorage to Tacoma, you'll find significant differences not just in climate and geography, but also in the cultural and political fabric of the communities. Anchorage's political setting is more mixed, with both Republican and Democratic influences visible in local governance. In contrast, Tacoma's political atmosphere leans more towards liberal ideologies, reflected in its predominantly Democratic local representation. Religion-wise, both cities offer a diversity of faiths, but Tacoma stands out with a larger portion of the population identifying as non-religious. This information can be a vital part of feeling at home in your new city.
Anchorage vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Anchorage, AK, to Tacoma, WA, means adapting to new daily commutes and understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Anchorage & Tacoma. This comparison aims to shed light on what you can expect to make your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Anchorage | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 19 | 27 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible, but limited |
In both Anchorage and Tacoma, daily commutes and traffic significantly affect your daily life, with Tacoma having a longer average commute time. Anchorage has lighter traffic congestion, making travel generally quicker, though its public transit system is less developed, making car ownership more of a necessity. In contrast, Tacoma offers better public transit options, making it feasible, though challenging, to get by without a car. This might necessitate adjustments in your daily routines or possibly considering living in areas with better access to Tacoma's public transit if you prefer not to rely on a car.
Popular Anchorage, AK to Washington Moving Routes
