Best Washington to Tacoma Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Washington DC to Tacoma, WA, marks the beginning of an exciting adventure and an important life change for you. While you’re trading the iconic political heartbeat and historic monuments of the Nation's Capital for Tacoma's scenic waterfronts and vibrant art scene, it's important not to overlook the logistics of such a significant move. To ensure a smooth transition across the continent, it’s crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers, like those we’ve rigorously selected at Great Guys Moving. Ensuring your belongings arrive safely allows you to fully embrace the new experiences awaiting you in the City of Destiny.
Best Washington to Tacoma Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to Washington guide.
5 Best Washington to Tacoma Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
About Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as local moving, lo...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |
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
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.
Washington vs. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. This comparison of local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Tacoma, WA is designed to help you find your new favorite spots by drawing parallels to the places you already love. Let’s make the unfamiliar, familiar.
| Washington | Tacoma | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Georgetown | Old Town | Historic charm, waterfront views |
| Adams Morgan | 6th Avenue | Eclectic mix, vibrant nightlife |
| Dupont Circle | Stadium District | Lively, cultural hub |
| Columbia Heights | Hilltop | Diverse community, historic homes |
| Capitol Hill | Proctor District | Quaint shops, community vibe |
| Shaw | Central Tacoma | Urban renewal, burgeoning arts scene |
| Navy Yard | Point Ruston | Waterfront living, new development |
| Logan Circle | North End | Historic homes, vibrant community |
| Petworth | Lincoln District | Family-friendly, cultural diversity |
| Brookland | Eastside Community | Artist enclaves, quiet neighborhoods |
Exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Tacoma, WA can feel like rediscovering the familiar streets of Washington DC, DC. For example, if Georgetown's historic charm and cobblestone streets have always captivated you, Old Town Tacoma offers a similar allure with its picturesque waterfront and historic homes. Adams Morgan’s unique flavor is mirrored in Tacoma’s 6th Avenue, where a similarly diverse selection of restaurants and bars makes the nightlife electric. Looking for a cultural hub? Dupont Circle enthusiasts will find Tacoma's Stadium District to be a comparable blend of history, architecture, and community events. Residents who appreciate Columbia Heights’ diversity and rich history may find a new home in Hilltop, with its mix of historic homes and multicultural ambiance. Through this comparison, relocating to Tacoma from Washington DC becomes a journey of rediscovery, uniting the old and new into a seamless living experience.
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 Washington to Tacoma
Moving from Washington DC, DC to Tacoma, WA signifies a major life decision that encompasses both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed choice. Understanding the pros and cons through these charts will illuminate the different lifestyle adjustments awaiting you.
Washington, DC- High living costs
- Heavy traffic
- Humid summers
- Politic-centric culture
- Limited outdoor activities
Tacoma, WA- More affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Milder climate
- More laid-back vibe
- Access to nature
Tacoma, WA- Fewer cultural institutions
- Smaller job market
- Less public transit options
- Fewer landmarks
- Smaller dining scene
Washington, DC- Rich cultural scene
- Strong job market
- Extensive public transit
- Iconic landmarks
- Diverse dining options
When considering the move from Washington DC to Tacoma, it's important to dive deeper into the lifestyle shifts. Tacoma's affordability means you could enjoy a bigger home or have more disposable income for activities. The city is a haven for nature lovers, boasting proximity to Mount Rainier National Park and the Puget Sound, providing ample opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and enjoying scenic views. Though Tacoma has a smaller cultural scene compared to DC, it is home to unique attractions like the Tacoma Art Museum and the thriving Proctor District, known for its artisan shops and local eateries like Metropolitan Market. While you might miss the vast array of dining options and the hustle and bustle of DC, the quality of life and the community in Tacoma offer a compelling alternative. Embracing its laid-back vibe and picturesque environment, Tacoma could be your next beloved home.
Washington vs. Tacoma Food Guide
Understanding the local food scene is a crucial part of immersing yourself in a new city's culture. In this guide, we'll conduct a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Tacoma, helping you get acquainted with the culinary delights awaiting in your new home.
| Washington | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-Smoke | Almond Roca |
| Most popular meat dish | Mumbo Sauce Chicken Wings | Cedar Plank Salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Tacoma Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Ethiopian | Vegan Ramen |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When exploring the local cuisine of Tacoma, you'll encounter a diverse range of flavors and dining experiences. Almond Roca, a buttercrunch toffee coated with chocolate and almonds, has its roots in Tacoma and is a must-try local delicacy. For seafood lovers, cedar plank salmon showcases the Pacific Northwest's rich seafood heritage, often found in waterfront restaurants or those with views of Puget Sound. The vegan scene in Tacoma is also growing, with vegan ramen being a notable favorite among plant-based diners. Be sure to explore neighborhoods such as Stadium District and 6th Avenue, where you'll find some of Tacoma's most iconic eateries, including Pacific Grill and Indochine Asian Dining Lounge.
Washington vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home starts with discovering your go-to spots for a fantastic meal. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease your transition by finding the closest match to your favorite Washington DC eateries in Tacoma, WA , ensuring your culinary adventures continue seamlessly in your new hometown.
| Washington | Tacoma | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Diplomate | Over The Moon Cafe | Both offer a cozy, romantic atmosphere with a focus on European cuisine. |
| Zaytinya | Pacific Grill | While more globally inspired, it offers creative, tapas-sized portions that remind one of Zaytinya's Mediterranean flair. |
| Rasika | Gateway to India | Known for its authentic Indian dishes and aromatic spices, a direct echo of Rasika's critically acclaimed menu. |
| Ben's Chili Bowl | Frisko Freeze | A local landmark, offering a casual dining experience with iconic, comfort food that rivals Ben's nostalgic appeal. |
| Fiola Mare | The Fish Peddler | Emphasizing fresh seafood and waterfront dining, capturing Fiola Mare's essence in a Pacific Northwest setting. |
| 2Amys | Stonegate Pizza | Celebrated for their dedication to Neapolitan pizzas, similarly honoring the craft as 2Amys does. |
| Bad Saint | Kusina Filipina | Echoes Bad Saint's commitment to bold Filipino flavors and traditional dishes, in a more casual Tacoma setting. |
| Estadio | Bar Bistro | Both showcase a love for Spanish-style small plates and a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere ideal for social dining. |
| Blue Duck Tavern | Boathouse 19 | Similar in their American cuisine focus, Boathouse 19 also emphasizes local, seasonal ingredients for a farm-to-table experience. |
| Little Serow | Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Offers a dive into exotic flavors with a menu inspired by Southeast Asian cuisine, akin to Little Serow's exploration of Northern Thai dishes. |
In transitioning from Washington DC's diverse and rich culinary scene to Tacoma's vibrant dining landscape, you'll find comforting similarities mixed with exciting new flavors. For instance, Le Diplomate's beloved French bistro vibe is mirrored elegantly at Over The Moon Cafe, where the romantic ambiance and meticulous European-inspired dishes promise a similar dining experience. Venturing into Indian cuisine, the transition from Rasika to Gateway to India is seamless, with both restaurants offering a tapestry of flavors that are as enthralling as they are authentic. Meanwhile, those who cherish the unique Filipino dishes and intimate setting of Bad Saint will find a homely counterpart in Kusina Filipina, where the traditional flavors are served with a personal touch. This comparative guide not only assists in discovering your next favorite restaurant in Tacoma but also ensures the culinary journey continues with the same passion and diversity that Washington DC offered.
Ready to start your move?
Washington vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate dynamics between Washington DC and Tacoma is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the key aspects of housing in both cities, aiding in your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Washington | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Federal | Craftsman, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to monuments, Metro access | Views of Mount Rainier, proximity to the Sound |
In Washington DC, the real estate market is marked by its rich history reflected in Colonial and Federal-style homes. The city's higher median home prices and monthly rents reflect its dense, urban appeal with greater walkability and metro access emphasized in listings. Conversely, Tacoma offers a more affordable housing market with Craftsman and Victorian homes that highlight the city's historical roots. The lower walkability and bikeability scores indicate a more car-dependent lifestyle, but the allure of stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound frequently appear in property listings, showcasing the city's natural beauty.
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.
Washington vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Washington DC to Tacoma, WA, it is crucial to understand how the climate and weather patterns will change. This comparison will illuminate the weather differences between Washington DC and Tacoma, helping you to prepare for your new environment.
Washington, DC
Tacoma, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington, DC
Tacoma, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington, DC
Tacoma, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington, DC
Tacoma, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Earthquakes, Volcanic Activity |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing the climates of Washington DC and Tacoma, WA, notable differences emerge, particularly in summer temperatures and annual sunshine days. Washington DC experiences hotter summers and enjoys more sunny days annually than Tacoma, which has milder summer temperatures and fewer days of sunshine. Tacoma's higher average humidity and lower UV index reflect its coastal, Pacific Northwest climate, characterized by wetter, more overcast conditions. Both cities face seasonal allergies predominantly in the spring, with tree and grass pollens as common irritants. Moreover, Tacoma's significantly lower annual snowfall compared to Washington DC's could make winters seem less severe for those moving from the east coast.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington to Tacoma
When planning a move from Washington DC to Tacoma, WA , it's essential to grasp how your financial landscape might shift. This comparison aims to shed light on various economic factors in both cities, helping you to anticipate changes in your cost of living , tax obligations , and income potential .
| Comparison | Washington | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $77,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 109.5 |
| State Income Tax | 4% to 8.95% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56% | 1.31% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 10.3% |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education | Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Higher |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
While relocating from Washington DC to Tacoma, WA, you'll find a noticeable difference in average household income, with DC being higher. However, Tacoma offers a lower cost of living, which could make it financially appealing, especially considering Washington state's lack of income tax. Although the property tax rate is higher in Tacoma, the overall tax burden may still be lower without the state income tax. Additionally, when considering top industries, your career prospects might shift with healthcare, retail, and manufacturing as leading sectors in Tacoma, contrasting with DC's government and professional services dominance. This move could represent both a new lifestyle and financial outlook.
Washington vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison
In your journey from Washington DC to Tacoma, understanding the social canvas of your new city is crucial. This quick comparison aims to provide a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering a glimpse into the community you're about to join.
| Washington | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Democratic-leaning |
| Local Politics | Focused on national and international affairs | Community-centered with local sustainability initiatives |
| Religion | Mixed, with significant Catholic and Protestant communities | Diverse, with growing non-religious and spiritual but not religious communities |
While both Washington DC and Tacoma share Democratic-leaning political views, Tacoma places a strong emphasis on local community issues and sustainability efforts. The religious landscape in Tacoma is also quite diverse, with an increasing number of residents identifying as non-religious or exploring spirituality outside traditional religious institutions. Moving to Tacoma, you'll find a community that values progressive ideas and acts locally on global issues, creating a unique blend of political engagement and community involvement.
Washington vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Washington DC to Tacoma, WA? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Tacoma will help you understand what to expect in terms of daily commute and traffic in both cities.
| Comparison | Washington | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.5 | 27.2 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, with some effort | More challenging |
In Washington DC, your daily commute is likely to be longer and more congested compared to Tacoma. However, the nation's capital compensates for this with excellent public transportation, making getting around feasible without a car, especially if you live and work within proximity to the Metro lines. On the other hand, Tacoma offers a less congested drive and a shorter average commute time. However, you may find getting around Tacoma without a car more challenging due to the less extensive public transport options. Considering your lifestyle and preferences will be key in adapting to your new city.
Popular Washington, DC to Washington Moving Routes
