Best Austin to Tacoma Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the vibrant live music capital of Austin, TX, to the lush, rain-soaked beauty of Tacoma, WA, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading the Lone Star State's BBQs and hot summers for the Pacific Northwest's coffee culture and breathtaking mountain views. As this journey spans thousands of miles, emphasizing the need for trusted, reliable professional movers can't be overstated; that's where we come in, ensuring your adventure begins on the right note.
Best Austin to Tacoma Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MoverTron Moving | 9.45 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| John Volken Academy Movers | 9.34 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Heavenly Moving and Storage | 9.30 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| First Due Movers | 9.26 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Amen Moving | 9.21 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to Austin guide.
5 Best Austin 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
This listing has been claimed by Heavenly Moving and StorageAbout Heavenly Moving and Storage
Heavenly Moving and Storage has been one of Austin’s premier moving companies since 2005. This locally-owned moving company provides high-qu...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Full-service packing
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 Amen Moving
Amen Moving is a professional moving company based in Austin, TX. The company specializes in out of state moving and packing services, offic...Read More >>
Services
- Out of state moving services
- Packing services
- Office moving services
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.
Austin vs. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from Austin, TX to Tacoma, WA, it's crucial to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide is designed to help you compare local neighborhoods between Austin, TX & Tacoma, WA so you can easily find your new favorite area. We've matched top Austin neighborhoods with their Tacoma counterparts based on vibe, amenities, and overall feel.
| Austin | Tacoma | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| South Congress | Proctor District | Vibrant local shopping |
| Travis Heights | Old Town | Historic homes, waterfront views |
| Barton Hills | Point Defiance | Abundant green spaces, close to water |
| Zilker | North End | Family-friendly, parks nearby |
| Tarrytown | Stadium District | Quiet, old-world charm |
| Hyde Park | Hilltop | Diverse, community-focused |
| East Austin | 6th Avenue | Artsy, eclectic mix of businesses |
| Mueller | South Tacoma | Planned community, modern amenities |
| Clarksville | Ruston | Boutique shops, upscale dining |
| Cherrywood | Lincoln District | Quirky, multi-cultural restaurants |
Discovering the perfect neighborhood often involves exploring local amenities, parks, and dining options. For instance, if you appreciate the bustling vibe of South Congress with its unique shops and cafes, the Proctor District in Tacoma offers a similar environment with locally-owned boutiques and eateries like Watson's Greenhouse and Nursery for shopping, and Metropolitan Market for dining. For residents of Travis Heights enjoying historic homes and scenic views, Old Town Tacoma mirrors this charm, providing picturesque waterfront sights. Barton Hills' love for nature and greenery translates well into Point Defiance's vast parks and waterfront access, ideal for outdoors enthusiasts. Each Tacoma neighborhood mentioned brings a slice of Austin's familiar feel, making your move a welcoming transition.
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 Austin to Tacoma
Moving from Austin, TX to Tacoma, WA means weighing both sides to find what fits your lifestyle best. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on Austin, TX and Tacoma, WA, covering the intricate details that could influence your decision to relocate. From the vibrant culture of Austin to the lush, scenic beauty of Tacoma, here's a meticulous breakdown to guide you through.
Austin, TX- Hot summers
- Higher cost of living
- Limited outdoor activities
- Traffic congestion
- Less green space
Tacoma, WA- Cooler climate
- More affordable
- Rich natural scenery
- Less traffic
- Lush parks and forests
Tacoma, WA- Quieter culture
- Fewer options
- Less live music
- Smaller tech community
- More laid-back vibe
Austin, TX- Vibrant culture
- Variety of restaurants
- Live music scene
- Innovative tech scene
- Young, dynamic population
When you move from Austin to Tacoma, you exchange the lively, bustling city life for a more serene and nature-centric living. Imagine swapping the sweltering heat of Austin summers for the mild and pleasant climate of Tacoma, which is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities like hiking in Point Defiance Park or kayaking in Commencement Bay. Tacoma's affordability allows you to explore diverse neighborhoods such as Proctor District or Stadium District, each offering unique shops, restaurants, and cafes. While Austin is known for its dynamic tech scene and vibrant nightlife, Tacoma offers a quieter, yet rich cultural experience with attractions like the Museum of Glass and the historic Tacoma Dome. The change means embracing a lifestyle that's closer to nature while still having access to urban amenities.
Austin vs. Tacoma Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Austin & Tacoma to help you better understand what the food scene is like in these cities. Since food is a crucial part of local culture and living experience, this comparison aims to provide insights for those moving between these locations.
| Austin | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | BBQ Brisket | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Ribs | Cedar Planked Salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Mushroom Ramen |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Tacoma's cuisine, much like its coastal location, offers a bounty from the sea with Dungeness Crab and Cedar Planked Salmon topping the list of must-try dishes. Specific neighborhoods such as the Ruston Way waterfront are famed for their seafood offerings, with restaurants like WildFin American Grill showcasing these local specialties. On the other hand, Austin's reputation for mouthwatering BBQ Brisket and a vibrant food truck scene provides a contrasting yet equally enticing culinary landscape. Franklin Barbecue in Austin has earned a legendary status for BBQ lovers, making it a must-visit for those seeking the quintessential Texan BBQ experience. These cities offer diverse culinary scenes reflective of their unique cultures and locations, providing a rich palette of flavors for locals and newcomers alike.
Austin vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city means finding those special places where food feels like home. This comparison between Austin's top eateries and their Tacoma equivalents helps bridge the comfort of familiar flavors with the excitement of new favorites. Whether you're craving upscale dining, a casual bite, iconic dishes, or foodie havens, let this guide ease your transition from Austin, TX to Tacoma, WA.
| Austin | Tacoma | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Franklin Barbecue | Rib Ticklers | Exceptional BBQ and smoker delicacies, echoing Franklin's cult status |
| Uchi | Sushido | Inventive sushi and Japanese cuisine, mirroring Uchi’s sophistication |
| Odd Duck | Over the Moon Cafe | Creative, local cuisine in a quaint setting similar to Odd Duck's |
| Home Slice Pizza | Elemental Pizza | Authentic, hand-tossed pizza with a local twist resembling Home Slice's charm |
| Torchy's Tacos | Vuelva A La Vida | Flavor-packed tacos with a diverse menu akin to Torchy's |
| Matt's El Rancho | Mexico Magico | Traditional Mexican cuisine capturing Matt's rustic yet refined flavors |
| Barley Swine | Craft 19 | Seasonal and local ingredients in innovative dishes, inspired by Barley Swine’s ethos |
| Fonda San Miguel | Antojitos Carmen | Authentic interior Mexican fare that rivals the experience at Fonda San Miguel |
| La Barbecue | BBQ2U | Craft BBQ that offers a deep dive into smoked meats, similar to La Barbecue's specialty |
| Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ | El Zocalo Tortas and Bakery | A fusion of Mexican flavors with Texan BBQ approach, reminiscent of Valentina's unique offering |
Each restaurant listed offers a unique taste of what makes Austin's food scene so beloved, and their Tacoma counterparts are no different. For instance, the move from enjoying Uchi's exquisite Japanese dishes to savoring the creative sushi rolls at Sushido can be seamless, with both venues focusing on the freshest ingredients and innovative presentation. Meanwhile, BBQ aficionados mourning the distance to Franklin Barbecue will find solace in Rib Ticklers, where the art of smoked meats is both a passion and a tradition. These selections highlight how, despite the geographical change, the essence of great food and vibrant culinary cultures can be found in Tacoma, mirroring the cherished eateries of Austin.
Ready to start your move?
Austin vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial component in relocating. When considering the move from Austin, TX to Tacoma, WA, understanding how the two cities compare in terms of housing will help you make informed decisions.
| Comparison | Austin | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Ranch | Craftsman and Foursquare |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Outdoor spaces, sustainable features | Views, historic features |
When it comes to housing, both Austin, TX, and Tacoma, WA, offer unique benefits. Austin's real estate market is known for its modern and ranch-style homes, often highlighted by outdoor spaces and sustainability features. These attributes cater to those who prioritize a contemporary, eco-friendly lifestyle. Conversely, Tacoma prides itself on its Craftsman and Foursquare homes, with real estate listings often boasting of stunning views and rich historical elements. This reflects Tacoma's appeal to individuals who appreciate classic architecture and a connection to the area's past. Additionally, Austin's higher urban lifestyle rating suggests a vibrant city life, whereas Tacoma provides a more subdued, yet equally enriching environment.
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.
Austin vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Austin, TX to Tacoma, WA, understanding how the weather will change is crucial. This comparison will highlight the differences you'll experience in weather conditions , making your transition smoother by knowing what to expect in both Austin and Tacoma .
Austin, TX
Tacoma, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Austin, TX
Tacoma, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Austin, TX
Tacoma, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Austin, TX
Tacoma, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Austin | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Heatwaves, Floods | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Austin to Tacoma means adapting from hot, dry summers to cooler, more humid conditions. While you'll enjoy a significant decrease in summer temperatures in Tacoma, prepare for fewer days of sunshine and higher overall humidity. Winters in Tacoma are milder but wetter, with more rainfall and snowfall than you're used to in Austin. The change in air quality and prevalent seasonal allergies might also affect your daily life, making it essential to prepare for these environmental shifts as part of your moving plan.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Austin to Tacoma
When considering relocating from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to provide insight into how Austin, TX to Tacoma, WA's cost of living, taxes, and economic environment will affect your budget and lifestyle. It's tailored to help you make an informed decision about your move.
| Comparison | Austin | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,542 | $77,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.5 | 109.5 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0-9.9% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.83% | 1.10% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25% | 9.6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | Considerably affluent | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Low | Medium |
| Homelessness | Increasing | High |
In comparing Austin to Tacoma, one of the most striking differences is the average household income and cost of living index. While Austin enjoys a higher average household income, it also comes with a higher cost of living—something that could impact your monthly budgeting. Additionally, while Texas doesn't impose a state income tax, Washington's state income tax varies, potentially affecting your take-home pay, especially if you're in a higher income bracket. On the upside, Tacoma offers a lower average property tax which could be beneficial if you plan to buy a home. These financial factors, among others, are essential to consider as they directly influence your lifestyle and financial well-being after the move.
Austin vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider your move from Austin, TX to Tacoma, WA, understanding the community you'll be joining is essential. This comparison of the politics between Austin & Tacoma and the religious landscapes provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of what to expect. Familiarize yourself with the political leanings and religious makeup of your potential new home.
| Austin | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, focus on environment and social issues | Progressive policies, strong community engagement |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated, diverse religious communities | Less religiously affiliated, but with noticeable Lutheran influence |
In both Austin and Tacoma, you'll find a politically liberal and progressive environment. This similarity could make the transition smoother for you, as the local politics focus on social issues, environmental practices, and community engagement in both cities. However, there's a nuanced difference in the religious landscape. While Austin offers a wide array of religious communities with a significant portion of the population being less religiously affiliated, Tacoma presents a similar secular vibe but with a noticeable Lutheran presence, thanks to institutions like Pacific Lutheran University. This blend of political and religious environments aims to create welcoming and dynamic communities for new residents like you.
Austin vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when relocating. This guide offers a side-by-side comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Austin, TX, and Tacoma, WA, to better prepare you for what to expect as you transition between these two vibrant cities.
| Comparison | Austin | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Moderately achievable |
In Austin, the average commute time slightly edges out Tacoma, indicating a bit more time spent in your vehicle. However, it's the traffic congestion where you'll notice a significant difference, with Austin experiencing a higher degree of slowdowns. This may be somewhat alleviated by public transit options, which are more robust in Tacoma. Tacoma offers better public transportation services, making it more feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. Despite both cities presenting their unique challenges, understanding these differences can assist in easing your transition and daily commute in your new home.
