Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Honolulu to Tacoma Movers

Moving from the tropical paradise of Honolulu to the vibrant cityscape of Tacoma marks an exciting chapter in your life, brimming with new possibilities. Leaving behind the Aloha spirit and sunny beaches for the City of Destiny's lush greenery and bustling port can feel like a major life shift. That's why it's crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers for this long journey; we at Great Guys Moving ensure you're matched with the best, taking the guesswork out of who to trust with your cherished belongings.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to Honolulu guide.

5 Best Honolulu to Tacoma Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
First Due Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,542+ data points

Preston, WA
Residential Moves, Commercial Moves, Long-Distance Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 1990914 Verify

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 >>

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#2
People Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,624+ data points

Bothell, WA
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2895681 Verify

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>

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#3
Ewa Moving Co. Logo
Very Good

based on 209+ data points

Ewa Beach, HI
Residential moving services in Oahu, Local moving services in Oahu, Hourly rate moving services in Oahu See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3786678 Verify

About Ewa Moving Co.

Ewa Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company based in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The company provides residential and commercial mo...Read More >>

#4
Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC Logo
Good

based on 73+ data points

Honolulu, HI
Local Moves, Long Distance Moves, Office Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 1/25/2024)

USDOT: 3396143 Verify

About Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC

Mint Moving & Cleaning Solutions LLC is a locally owned and operated business based in Honolulu, HI, offering services throughout all Ha...Read More >>

#5
Island Movers Logo
Below Average

based on 1,157+ data points

Honolulu, HI
Personal Moves, Business Moves, Cheap Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 105271 Verify

About Island Movers

Multi-awarded Island Movers, Inc. has two locations in Hawaii, including one in Honolulu. The family-owned and operated business has over 60...Read More >>

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Relocating from Honolulu to Tacoma Neighborhood Guide

Embarking on a move can sometimes feel like deciphering a map to an unknown treasure. To ease this transition, we've paired Honolulu, HI & Tacoma, WA neighborhoods in a comparison. This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. Discover which local spots in Tacoma mirror those you've grown to love in Honolulu.

HonoluluTacoma
WaikikiStadium District

Vivid nightlife, beach proximity

ManoaProctor District

Historic homes, academic vibe

Kakaako6th Avenue

Urban arts, trendy eateries

Hawaii KaiPoint Ruston

Waterfront living, upscale amenities

KapoleiSouth Tacoma

Growing community, family-friendly

Ala MoanaDowntown Tacoma

Shopping, dining, and entertainment

Eastern HonoluluNorth End

Quiet, residential with beach access

Kalihi-PalamaLincoln District

Diverse community, historic charm

Waialae-KahalaOld Town

Lavish homes, waterfront allure

Mililani MaukaFircrest

Suburban feel, parks and recreation

For those considering a move from Honolulu's vibrant Waikiki to Tacoma, the Stadium District captures a similar essence with its vivid nightlife and beach-adjacent locale. In Tacoma, the Proctor District resonates with the historic and academic atmosphere reminiscent of Manoa, boasting charming homes and proximity to the University of Puget Sound. Transitioning from Kakaako's contemporary art scene and foodie paradise, you'll find a kindred spirit on 6th Avenue in Tacoma, which is brimming with urban art and an array of trendy eateries. For waterfront enthusiasts, moving from Hawaii Kai to Tacoma's Point Ruston offers luxurious waterfront living with upscale amenities and picturesque views, solidifying it as an ideal locale for ocean lovers seeking a similar setting in their new city.

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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
  • Attend Tacoma Art Walk

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma

Moving is a significant life decision, and when considering a relocation from Honolulu, HI, to Tacoma, WA, it's essential to weigh the advantages against the drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation from Honolulu, HI to Tacoma, WA, highlighting aspects that could affect your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • High living cost
  • Island isolation
  • Limited job market
  • Heavy traffic
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • More affordable life
  • Easier mainland travel
  • Diverse employment ops
  • Less congested roads
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Colder weather
  • No natural beaches
  • More urban setting
  • Less diverse cuisine
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • Warm climate
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Lush landscapes
  • Cultural diversity

Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma introduces you to a new landscape of opportunities and challenges. While you might miss the warm climate and unique island life of Honolulu, including its world-renowned beaches like Waikiki, Tacoma welcomes you with a vibrant urban setting characterized by beautiful parks such as Point Defiance and cultural hotspots like the Museum of Glass. The transition offers a chance to explore places like Ruston Way Waterfront for picturesque views and dining or the historic Proctor District for shopping and entertainment. Although Tacoma may lack Honolulu's extensive variety of Asian and Polynesian cuisines, it compensates with a growing food scene featuring establishments like En Rama and local coffee shops such as Bluebeard Coffee Roasters, ensuring you won't be short on new flavors and experiences. This move is not just a change of scenery but an opportunity to embrace a different pace of life while discovering new communities and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma

Food is a fundamental aspect of local culture and the living experience in any area. Moving from one place to another brings changes, not least in the culinary scene. To help you understand what awaits your palate, we're providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Honolulu & Tacoma . This way, you can get a taste of your new home before even arriving.

HonoluluTacoma

Most iconic local food item

PokeSeafood chowder

Most popular meat dish

Loco MocoPrime Rib

Most popular street food item

Spam MusubiHot Dogs

Most popular vegan food

Acai bowlVegetable Bibimbap

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Helena's Hawaiian Food
  • Alan Wong's
  • Roy's Hawaii
  • En Rione
  • MSM Deli
  • The Table

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

95

Foodie Scene (out of 10)

97

Vegan Friendly (out of 10)

87

When moving from Honolulu to Tacoma, you'll find a shift not only in scenery but also in culinary delights. Honolulu is celebrated for its unique fusion of Asian and Polynesian cuisines, with dishes like Poke and Loco Moco being local favorites. You can enjoy these specialties in neighborhoods like Waikiki and Kaimuki. In contrast, Tacoma offers a different vibe with a love for hearty meals like Seafood Chowder and Prime Rib, reflecting its cooler climate and coastal influence. The Proctor and Stadium districts in Tacoma are burgeoning foodie hubs where new restaurants like Thekoi offer a modern take on global cuisines, giving Tacoma an eclectic taste that's gradually cementing its status as a culinary destination.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma

Making a new city feel like home often starts with finding your go-to spots for a memorable meal. Understanding the importance of cuisine in this transition, we've compared top restaurants in Honolulu to their closest matches in Tacoma , to assist you in discovering your new favorite eateries. This guide leverages your current tastes in Honolulu to explore similar culinary delights in Tacoma.

Alan Wong'sIndochine Asian Dining Lounge

Elegant setting with innovative dishes.

Merriman'sAsado

Unique meat dishes with a local twist.

MW RestaurantBite

Contemporary dining with a creative menu.

The Pig and The LadyPho King

Authentic Vietnamese with a modern flair.

Helena's Hawaiian FoodHawaiian Kitchen

Traditional Hawaiian dishes with a family feel.

Matsumoto Shave IceBliss Small Batch Creamery

Unique ice creams, closest in spirit to shave ice.

SeniaPacific Grill

Inventive plates in an upscale environment.

Rainbow Drive-InShake Shake Shake

Retro diner vibes with an excellent burger lineup.

Roy's WaikikiBoathouse 19

Waterfront dining with a focus on seafood and steaks.

Leonard's BakeryCorina Bakery

Cozy bakery known for its pies, pastries, and coffee.

For those who treasure the innovative Pacific Rim cuisine of Alan Wong's in Honolulu, Indochine Asian Dining Lounge in Tacoma offers a delightful alternative with its elegant setting and innovative dishes inspired by regions from Thailand to Vietnam. Meanwhile, fans of the casual yet unforgettable experience at The Pig and The Lady will find happiness in Tacoma's Pho King, which presents authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a modern flair, ensuring a seamless transition for your palate. And for those who simply cannot start their weekend without a visit to Leonard's Bakery for their famous malasadas, Corina Bakery provides a cozy alternative in Tacoma, with its wide selection of pies, pastries, and specialty coffee that rivals the satisfaction found at Leonard's, ensuring you're never too far away from a taste of home.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma

Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating. It's essential to understand how Honolulu, HI and Tacoma, WA compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle. This comparison will guide you in making an informed decision tailored to your needs and preferences.

When considering a move from Honolulu to Tacoma, the contrast in real estate costs is significant. With median home prices in Tacoma being nearly half of those in Honolulu, you might find more value for your money. The architecture style differs greatly as well, from Honolulu's modern and plantation-style homes to Tacoma's charming Craftsman and mid-century buildings. While both cities offer a vibrant urban lifestyle, Honolulu edges out with its ocean views and higher walkability score, suggesting a more compact city structure compared to Tacoma's appeal for spacious backyards and mountain views. These distinctions underline the varied experiences these cities offer, shaping a unique living environment that caters to different tastes and needs.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma

When considering a move from Honolulu, HI to Tacoma, WA, it's critical to understand how the weather will shift in your new home. This comparison aims to highlight the weather dynamics between Honolulu and Tacoma , ensuring you're well-prepared for the change.

Summer icon
88°F / 75°F

Honolulu, HI

77°F / 53°F

Tacoma, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
80°F / 65°F

Honolulu, HI

47°F / 37°F

Tacoma, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
17 in

Honolulu, HI

39 in

Tacoma, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Honolulu, HI

6.8

Tacoma, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma, expect to trade abundant sunshine and warm temperatures for cooler, cloudier days with more pronounced seasons. While Honolulu offers a fairly consistent climate with minor fluctuations between summer and winter, Tacoma’s weather varies significantly across seasons, including a notable winter chill that might require a wardrobe update. Additionally, the increase in annual rainfall and the experience of occasional light snowfall in Tacoma present a distinct contrast to Honolulu's predominantly dry conditions. Adapting to these changes will be key to enjoying the beautiful, diverse landscape and outdoor opportunities awaiting in Tacoma.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma

When planning your move from Honolulu, HI to Tacoma, WA, it's crucial to grasp how the shift will affect your finances. This comparison aims to illustrate the financial adjustments you'll face, focusing on the cost of living, taxes , and income prospects in both cities . Understanding these differences will help you better prepare for your relocation.

The cost of living in Honolulu is significantly higher than in Tacoma, most notably reflected in its living index. This financial pressure is cushioned by the substantially higher average household income in Honolulu. However, Tacoma presents an attractive proposition with no state income tax, whereas Honolulu residents face a considerable tax rate. While property taxes are higher in Tacoma, the lower cost of living and absence of state income tax could balance your financial equation. The dominant industries vary between the two, suggesting a potential shift in employment opportunities depending on your profession. Understanding these nuances is key to a smooth financial transition.

Political & Religious Comparison between Honolulu, HI and Tacoma, WA

When considering a move from Honolulu, HI to Tacoma, WA, it's useful to grasp a quick overview of the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison will focus on providing a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Honolulu & Tacoma , aiming to give you a better understanding of the local culture in both cities.

HonoluluTacoma

Political Make-up

DemocraticDemocratic

Local Politics

Liberal-leaning, with issues such as environmental conservation taking precedenceProgressive, with active discussions on social justice and community development

Religion

Multicultural and diverse, with Christianity, Buddhism, and Shinto being prominentMainly Christian, with a significant presence of other faiths reflecting a diverse population

In both Honolulu and Tacoma, the political makeup heavily leans Democratic, a reflection of their coastal city statuses that commonly prioritize liberal values. However, the local political landscapes reveal distinctive focal points; in Honolulu, environmental conservation is often at the forefront, a testament to the island's pristine natural beauty and the communal effort to preserve it. Tacoma, on the other hand, tends to gravitate towards social justice and community development, highlighting the city's progressive approach to fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. Religious diversity is another common thread, though the specific mix and presence of religions differ, with Honolulu showcasing a unique blend that includes Buddhism and Shinto due to its considerable Asian influence. Tacoma's religious scene is predominantly Christian but is similarly enriched by a tapestry of other faiths, representing its multicultural inhabitants.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma

Moving from Honolulu, HI to Tacoma, WA requires an understanding of how your daily commute and traffic will change. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Honolulu & Tacoma will help you prepare for your new routines and daily travels in Tacoma.

HonoluluTacoma
2726

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

86

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

64

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

DifficultVery difficult

Can you get by without car?

In both cities, the average commute time is fairly similar, though Honolulu edges out just a bit higher in traffic congestion due to its densely populated nature and limited routes for commuting. Public transit in Honolulu, facilitated by services like TheBus, provides more comprehensive coverage compared to Tacoma, where public transit options are spread thinner and more focused around the downtown area. In Tacoma, being without a car is challenging due to the city's spread-out nature and the gap in public transportation availability, making it essential for most residents to have their own vehicle for daily commuting and errands.

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