Best San Jose to Tacoma Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the tech-rich Silicon Valley to the picturesque landscapes of Puget Sound is an adventure of a lifetime, bridging two distinct ways of life. You're trading the entrepreneurial spirit and sunshine of San Jose, the Capital of Silicon Valley, for Tacoma's vibrant art scene and breathtaking views, known affectionately as the City of Destiny. Recognizing the importance of this transition, it's crucial to entrust your journey to professional movers, ensuring your move from San Jose to Tacoma is as smooth and reliable as the services we proudly stand behind at Great Guys Moving.
Best San Jose to Tacoma Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to San Jose guide.
5 Best San Jose to Tacoma Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About All Stars Movers
All Stars Movers is a San Jose moving company fully licensed and insured in the state of California. This locally owned business provides th...Read More >>
Services
- LOCAL MOVING SERVICES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVING SERVICES
- BUSINESS MOVING SERVICES
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and busin...Read More >>
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
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 Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, a...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office 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
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.
San Jose vs. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide to compare the top neighborhoods in San Jose, CA & Tacoma, WA . This comparison helps you find neighborhoods similar to your current San Jose favorites in your new city, Tacoma, making the move a little less overwhelming.
| San Jose | Tacoma | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Willow Glen | Proctor District | Family-friendly, vibrant local shopping |
| Almaden Valley | North Tacoma | Scenic views, spacious parks |
| Rose Garden | Old Town | Historic charm, community feel |
| Downtown San Jose | Downtown Tacoma | Thriving arts scene, diverse dining |
| Japantown | Lincoln District | Cultural diversity, unique eateries |
| Los Gatos | Stadium District | Upscale residential, historic vibes |
| Evergreen | Browns Point | Quiet suburban, waterfront access |
| Silver Creek | West End | Affluent area, near nature |
| Berryessa | South Tacoma | Family-oriented, increasing amenities |
| Cambrian Park | University Place | Laid-back lifestyle, close to educational institutions |
In moving from San Jose to Tacoma, you’ll discover neighborhoods brimming with unique characteristics and charm not unlike those you’re leaving behind. For instance, the Proctor District mirrors Willow Glen's sociable ambiance with its family-centric atmosphere and bustling local shops, such as the Proctor Farmers Market. If you enjoy the historic beauty and community vibe of the Rose Garden area, Old Town Tacoma will captivate you with its historic waterfront charm and cozy cafes like the Old Town Coffee Cafe. Meanwhile, Japantown’s culture and dining experiences find a counterpart in Tacoma’s Lincoln District, famous for its diversity and spots like the Lincoln International District Plaza. Each Tacoma neighborhood provides a unique blend of amenities, from the picturesque parks akin to those in Almaden Valley to the vibrant arts and dining scene reminiscent of Downtown San Jose, ensuring you'll find a new place to call home that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences.
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 San Jose to Tacoma
Moving from one city to another can be a significant life event that comes with its set of challenges and rewards. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Jose, CA to Tacoma, WA, helping you weigh the pros and cons effectively. By comparing the two cities, you'll gain insights into what to expect and how to prepare for your new life in Tacoma.
San Jose, CA- High Cost of Living
- Traffic Congestion
- Fewer Green Spaces
- Limited Weather Variety
Tacoma, WA- More Affordable
- Less Traffic
- More Parks
- Distinct Seasons
Tacoma, WA- Smaller Job Market
- More Rainfall
- Fewer Dining Options
- Quieter Nightlife
San Jose, CA- Thriving Tech Scene
- Abundant Sunshine
- Diverse Culinary Scene
- Vibrant Nightlife
Moving from the bustling tech hub of San Jose to the more serene environment of Tacoma means not only escaping the high cost of living but also embracing a city with a strong sense of community and nature at your doorstep. Tacoma's Point Defiance Park and the Ruston Way Waterfront offer stunning views and an escape within the city, contrasting with San Jose's tech-driven landscape. While San Jose boasts a vibrant nightlife and a diverse culinary scene, including establishments like Santana Row, Tacoma counters with its own unique charm, offering cozy spots like McMenamins Elks Temple and the Pacific Grill. This relocation brings a change from the continuous hustle and penchant for innovation of San Jose to a more laid-back lifestyle that appreciates the outdoors and a tight-knit community feel in Tacoma.
San Jose vs. Tacoma Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose & Tacoma, highlighting the importance of food as a quintessential aspect of local culture and living experience. This comparison will help you get acquainted with the culinary landscape of your new home.
| San Jose | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pho | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetarian Pho | Vegan Bibimbap |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Jose, the diverse culinary scene is reflected in its vast array of international cuisines, with Vietnamese Pho and Mexican Tacos being particularly celebrated among the locals. The city is known for its vibrant food truck culture, especially around areas like San Pedro Square Market, where you can indulge in a variety of street foods. In contrast, Tacoma's food scene shines with its seafood offerings, notably the Dungeness Crab and Salmon dishes found in waterfront restaurants like The Table or along the Ruston Way waterfront. Both cities offer a rich dining experience, but the local flavors and specialties distinctively define them.
San Jose vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a significant role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart aims to ease the transition from San Jose, CA to Tacoma, WA, helping you discover new favorite spots that mirror your cherished eateries. Whether you're searching for high-end dining, casual bites, or unique flavors, this guide provides a starting point for culinary exploration in your new hometown.
| San Jose | Tacoma | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Adega | Asado | both feature exquisite Iberian cuisine and an upscale dining experience |
| Back A Yard | Island Soul Rum Bar & Soul Shack | captures similar Caribbean vibes with flavorful dishes |
| La Foret | Elk Plain Tap House | both offer a unique selection of food, focusing on local and sustainable ingredients |
| Dia de Pesca | Fish Peddler | both specialize in casual yet delicious seafood offerings |
| Original Joe's | Stanley & Seafort's | iconic spots in their respective cities known for classic American dishes |
| Manresa | Over The Moon Cafe | both provide an intimate and high-end dining experience with a focus on innovative cuisine |
| Smoking Pig BBQ Company | Rib Ticklers Barbecue | both are popular for their authentic BBQ flavors and laid-back atmosphere |
| Falafel Drive-In | It's Greek To Me | offers a comparable Mediterranean fast-casual dining experience |
| San Pedro Square Market | Point Ruston Public Market | both are vibrant food markets with a diverse selection of eateries and shops |
| Paper Plane | En Rama | both are trendy cocktail bars with creative mixes and a cozy ambiance |
Transitioning from San Jose to Tacoma doesn't mean you have to leave behind your food favorites. For instance, Adega in San Jose is renowned for its upscale Iberian cuisine, a culinary tradition that continues at Asado in Tacoma, where the atmosphere and menu are similarly designed to transport diners to the Iberian Peninsula. Meanwhile, the laid-back yet vibrant Caribbean flavors at Back A Yard find their match in Tacoma's Island Soul Rum Bar & Soul Shack, ensuring that your cravings for zest and spice are well catered. If you're a barbecue aficionado mourning the distance from Smoking Pig BBQ Company, Rib Ticklers Barbecue in Tacoma promises a revival of those beloved smokey and savory tastes, emphasizing that the essence of great BBQ is universal. It's this exploration of new culinary landscapes in Tacoma that will not only satisfy your appetite but also help weave the fabric of your new life in the Pacific Northwest.
Ready to start your move?
San Jose vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a critical aspect when planning a move. Understanding how San Jose, CA and Tacoma, WA compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can significantly influence your decision. Below is a detailed comparison to guide you through the differences and similarities in real estate between these two cities.
| Comparison | San Jose | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Spanish | Craftsman and Tudor |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to tech hubs, Solar panels | Views of Mt. Rainier, Waterfront access |
When comparing San Jose and Tacoma, the most striking difference is in the median home price and rent; Tacoma is notably more affordable. San Jose, with its close ties to the Silicon Valley tech industry, features modern and Spanish-style homes that emphasize proximity to tech hubs and green technology like solar panels. On the other hand, Tacoma offers a more laid-back lifestyle with Craftsman and Tudor-style homes that often boast stunning views of Mt. Rainier and easy access to waterfronts. This considerable variation in housing costs and style reflects the distinct character and lifestyle found in each city, giving you a chance to choose what suits you best.
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.
San Jose vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial for your adjustment. This comparison aims to illuminate how the weather in San Jose, CA and Tacoma, WA diverges, guiding you to anticipate and plan for the new climate you'll be living in.
San Jose, CA
Tacoma, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Tacoma, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Tacoma, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Jose, CA
Tacoma, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Jose | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from San Jose to Tacoma, you'll find significantly more rainfall and less sunshine, changing the tone of seasonal activities and potentially your daily wardrobe. Tacoma experiences a cooler climate overall, especially in winter, which sees more snowfall compared to San Jose's virtually none. This can impact commuting or travel plans during colder months. Additionally, Tacoma's higher humidity levels and distinct set of top seasonal allergies might require adjustments in lifestyle to maintain comfort and health.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Jose to Tacoma
When planning a move from San Jose, CA to Tacoma, WA, it's crucial to grasp how your financial landscape will transform. This comparison aims to highlight the key economic differences between San Jose and Tacoma , offering a clearer view on what to expect in terms of expenses, taxes, and income prospects.
| Comparison | San Jose | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $126,377 | $77,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 156.1 | 109.5 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 (max rate) | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79 | 1.08 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 10.3 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Health Care | Retail, Health Care, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Substantial | Moderate |
Moving from San Jose to Tacoma, you're likely to notice a significant decrease in the cost of living. However, it's also essential to consider the change in household income, which is notably higher in San Jose. The absence of a state income tax in Washington could offer some financial relief. When examining property and sales taxes, Tacoma's rates are higher, which could offset some of the cost-of-living benefits. The industries leading in each city vary, potentially impacting job opportunities depending on your field. Both cities have their advantages and drawbacks in terms of affluence and poverty levels, underscoring the importance of understanding the economic environment you're moving into.
San Jose vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can present a myriad of changes, some of which you might not have considered. This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in San Jose, CA & Tacoma, WA . Understanding these aspects can provide insights into the community you're moving into and help set expectations for the local climate—politically, socially, and spiritually.
| San Jose | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on technology, housing | Focus on port development, social programs |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence | Diverse, with notable Protestant and non-religious communities |
While both San Jose and Tacoma lean liberal politically, the focus of their local politics reflects their unique geographical and economic landscapes. In San Jose, the emphasis on technology and housing issues mirrors its position in Silicon Valley, addressing the needs and concerns of a rapidly expanding tech industry and its workforce. Tacoma, with its significant port, places a higher emphasis on port development and social programs, reflecting its rich history as a bustling trade center. On the religious front, you'll find both cities host diverse religious communities; however, San Jose has a particularly significant Catholic community due to its historical missions, whereas Tacoma features a blend, with a notable representation of Protestant and non-religious residents. Understanding these nuances can provide a smoother transition and foster a deeper connection with your new home.
San Jose vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Jose, CA, to Tacoma, WA, entails navigating a new daily commute and adjusting to local traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Jose & Tacoma is designed to help you understand what to expect in each city.
| Comparison | San Jose | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | More challenging |
In San Jose, the prevalence of tech companies in Silicon Valley contributes to higher traffic congestion, with an average commute time of about 30 minutes. Public transit, including buses and light rail, is more readily available but still may not cover all areas comprehensively. Conversely, Tacoma offers a slightly more relaxed pace, with shorter average commute times and lesser traffic congestion. However, it's worth noting that public transit options are not as robust as in San Jose, making it more challenging to get by without a car. Each city presents unique challenges and benefits when it comes to navigating local transportation and traffic.
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