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Houston to Tacoma Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from the vibrant, sprawling metropolis of Houston, TX, to the enchanting, forest-fringed city of Tacoma, WA, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading Space City's bustling energy and balmy climate for the City of Destiny's serene bayside charm and a community deeply rooted in art and nature. Given the long journey between these distinctive cities, securing trusted and reliable professional movers is paramount to ensure your adventure begins on the right note. At Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased algorithm to connect you with the best movers, making your transition as smooth as possible.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Houston to Tacoma

#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 5/23/2024)

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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top 10 ranked movers in tacoma 2023 first due movers image
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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 5/23/2024)

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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top 10 ranked movers in olympia 2023 people movers image
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#3
Pinpoint Movers Logo
Superb

based on 2,347+ data points

Houston, TX
Homepage:, Residential moving, Commercial moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3070055 Verify

About Pinpoint Movers

Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all you...Read More >>

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#4
Right Rate Movers of Houston Logo
Fabulous

based on 3,973+ data points

Houston, TX
Residential Moving, Labor Only, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2200927 Verify

About Right Rate Movers of Houston

Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability and efficie...Read More >>

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#5
A Better Tripp Moving & Storage Logo
Fabulous

based on 1,248+ data points

Houston, TX
Full service, local company provides packing, crating, and relocation for any size residential home or office., Nationally recognized long distance movers that can relocate you to or from any state., Unique capability to transport small shipments cross country on a time sensitive schedule. See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 679167 Verify

About A Better Tripp Moving & Storage

Founded over 20 years ago in Houston, Texas, A Better Tripp Moving & Storage performs local, statewide, and nationwide moves catering to...Read More >>

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Relocating from Houston to Tacoma Neighborhood Guide

Moving across states can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new city. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Houston, TX & Tacoma, WA, helping you find a new neighborhood that feels like home. Whether you're searching for bustling street life, serene parks, or vibrant cultural spots, this guide aims to align your preferences with a similar community in your new city.

HoustonTacoma
The HeightsProctor District

Historic charm, local shops

MontroseStadium District

Lively arts scene, historic

River OaksOld Town

Upscale, waterfront views

MidtownHilltop

Urban, diverse community

West UniversityNorth End

Family-friendly, quiet streets

EaDo (East Downtown)Dome District

Emerging, artsy vibes

Galleria/UptownDowntown Tacoma

Shopping, dining

Museum DistrictCentral Tacoma

Cultural hub, museums

Rice MilitarySouth Tacoma

Laid-back, residential

Clear LakeRuston

Waterfront leisure, family-friendly

If you're moving from the artistic and diverse neighborhood of Montrose in Houston, you'll find a kindred spirit in Tacoma's Stadium District. Both areas offer a vibrant arts scene amidst historic buildings, boasting a variety of restaurants, bars, and galleries. Stadium District, similar to Montrose, is known for its walkable streets and eye-catching architecture, such as the Stadium High School, reminiscent of a French château. Residents of River Oaks accustomed to upscale living with beautiful parks like River Oaks Country Club will appreciate Old Town's waterfront views and high-end residential areas, offering a serene environment close to Commencement Bay. If you're coming from the bustling Galleria area, Downtown Tacoma will meet your needs for shopping and dining, with places like the Tacoma Art Museum and Pacific Avenue offering a blend of culture and retail therapy. For those seeking a blend of urban living with community spirit, Houston's EaDo and Tacoma's Dome District provide an emerging arts scene and new amenities drawing in residents looking for an artsy vibe with a sense of community.

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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

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Houston to Tacoma

Moving can be a significant life event, filled with both excitement and uncertainty. This comparison offers an honest reflection on the pros and cons of relocating from Houston, TX to Tacoma, WA, helping you weigh the benefits against the drawbacks. By examining specific attributes of each city, you’ll gain insights to make a more informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • Hotter summers
  • Flat landscape
  • Higher crime rates
  • Less green spaces
  • Longer commutes
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Cooler climate
  • Mountain views
  • Lower crime rates
  • More green spaces
  • Shorter commutes
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Smaller food scene
  • Higher living costs
  • State income tax
  • Smaller job market
  • Colder winters
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Strong economy
  • No state income tax
  • Bigger job market
  • Milder winters

Moving from Houston to Tacoma brings with it a promise of a more temperate climate, allowing for comfortable summers that let you explore outdoor activities without the intense heat of Texas. Imagine enjoying a picnic with stunning mountain views at Point Defiance Park, one of the many beautiful green spaces that Tacoma offers. The serene scenery significantly contrasts with Houston's flat and urban landscape. Additionally, echoes of good safety practices resonate stronger in Tacoma, where the communities often boast lower crime rates, allowing for more peaceful and secure neighborhood living. However, this move also means adapting to higher living costs and navigating a less diverse culinary scene. But for those who cherish culinary exploration, Tacoma's burgeoning food scene in areas like the Proctor District offers unique and cozy dining experiences that speak to the local culture and spirit.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Houston to Tacoma

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Houston & Tacoma, highlighting the vital role food plays in understanding a region's culture and lifestyle. With this comparison, you'll gain insights into the culinary scenes of your current and future home.

HoustonTacoma

Most iconic local food item

Texas BBQ BrisketDungeness Crab

Most popular meat dish

FajitasSalmon

Most popular street food item

TacosFish Tacos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ JackfruitVegan Pho

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
  • Uchi
  • Killen's Barbecue
  • Harmon Brewing Co.
  • Indochine Asian Dining Lounge
  • McMenamins Elks Temple

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

78

In Houston, the love for barbecue, particularly Texas BBQ Brisket, is immense, with areas like Montrose and The Heights harboring some of the best spots to indulge. Meanwhile, if you're moving to Tacoma, you'll find that the Dungeness Crab and Salmon play pivotal roles in local cuisine, reflecting Tacoma's rich maritime culture. Notably, neighborhoods like 6th Avenue and Ruston Way are culinary hotbeds, where establishments such as Harmon Brewing Co. and McMenamins Elks Temple offer a taste of the city's diverse and vibrant food scene.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Houston to Tacoma

Finding your new favorite spot to dine is an essential part of making anywhere feel like home. With that in mind, this guide compares top restaurants in Houston to their Tacoma counterparts. This comparative analysis aims to ease your transition by highlighting where to find similar culinary experiences between Houston and Tacoma , ensuring you quickly discover local eateries to love.

Pappadeaux Seafood KitchenThe Fish Peddler

Offers fresh, flavorful seafood reminiscent of Pappadeaux’s beloved dishes.

Hugo'sEl Borracho

Brings authentic regional Mexican cuisine and a bustling atmosphere echoing Hugo's.

UchiSushi Tama

Focuses on high-quality, inventive sushi that rivals the creativity and flavor of Uchi.

The Breakfast KlubThe Old Milwaukee Cafe & Dessert Company

Offers a comforting, hearty breakfast with a homely feel similar to The Breakfast Klub.

Truth BBQTexas BBQ Company Tacoma

Serves up authentic, smoked meats that can easily compete with Truth BBQ’s offerings.

Phoenicia Specialty FoodsMetropolitan Market

Provides a wide array of international foods and gourmet items, akin to Phoenicia's diverse selection.

Brennan's of HoustonOver The Moon Cafe

Delivers a fine dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and warm hospitality, reminiscent of Brennan's elegance.

Niko Niko'sIt's Greek To Me

Captures the essence of Greek dining with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere similar to Niko Niko's.

Gatlin's BBQBBQ2U

Offers a Texas-style barbecue experience with a focus on quality and flavor that Gatlin's BBQ patrons would appreciate.

Kata RobataIzakaya Kyo

Delivers a modern Japanese dining experience with a similar emphasis on fresh ingredients and innovative dishes.

In the quest for familiar tastes and culinary adventures in your new city, Tacoma does not disappoint. Places like Sushi Tama, with its emphasis on inventive sushi rolls and fresh ingredients, echo the high-quality dining experience of Uchi in Houston. Meanwhile, barbecue enthusiasts will find solace at BBQ2U, where Texas-style smoking techniques create flavors that rival those found at Gatlin's BBQ. For an upscale dining experience reminiscent of Brennan's in Houston, Over The Moon Cafe offers not only exquisite meals but also an atmosphere of warmth and elegance. Each restaurant mapped from Houston to Tacoma invites you on a journey to rediscover the flavors you love while embracing the unique culinary scene of your new home.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Houston to Tacoma

When planning a move, understanding the real estate market is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide compares the housing landscapes of Houston, TX and Tacoma, WA , focusing on cost, architecture, and urban lifestyle to help you make an informed decision.

Comparing Houston and Tacoma reveals notable differences in real estate priorities and urban lifestyle. Houston's real estate listings frequently promote large yards and outdoor kitchens, reflecting the city's preference for spacious, single-family homes often found in ranch-style and modern architecture. Conversely, Tacoma's market highlights Craftsman and Tudor homes, with listings prioritizing views of Puget Sound and closeness to parks, catering to those valuing natural beauty and outdoor activities. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Tacoma suggest a more compact urban layout conducive to exploring on foot or bike, offering a distinct urban experience compared to Houston's sprawling, car-dependent infrastructure.

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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 Houston to Tacoma

When moving from one city to another, understanding the differences in climate can enhance your preparedness. This comparison provides insight into how weather between Houston, TX, and Tacoma, WA, will change what you're accustomed to. Knowing these variations can help in adjusting to your new environment more comfortably.

Summer icon
94°F / 75°F

Houston, TX

77°F / 53°F

Tacoma, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
65°F / 45°F

Houston, TX

47°F / 37°F

Tacoma, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50"

Houston, TX

39.5"

Tacoma, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0.1"

Houston, TX

6.8"

Tacoma, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Transitioning from Houston's warm and humid climate to Tacoma's cooler and wetter weather necessitates adaptation. Houston boasts over 200 days of sunshine annually, a stark contrast to Tacoma's more modest count. This impacts not just your day-to-day comfort but can also influence mood and outdoor activities. Also, while Houston's air quality ranges from good to moderate, largely due to its industrial activities, Tacoma generally enjoys good air quality. Moreover, preparedness for natural disasters will shift from hurricanes and floods in Houston to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in Tacoma. Understanding these nuances ensures you're well-prepared for your new home's environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from Houston, TX to Tacoma, WA, it’s crucial to grasp how your finances might shift. This comparison illuminates the economic differences between Houston and Tacoma, focusing on cost of living and other financial aspects to help you gauge the adjustments you might need to make.

Moving from Houston to Tacoma, you'll notice a higher cost of living, partially due to Tacoma's higher sales tax rate and the possibility of state income tax, unlike Texas. However, Tacoma also reports a higher average household income, which might help balance these increased expenses. The disparity in property tax rates, with Tacoma having a lower rate than Houston, could be advantageous for homeowners. Moreover, the economic environment differs distinctly between the two, with Tacoma having strengths in healthcare and technology, which might influence job opportunities and your career trajectory.

Political & Religious Comparison between Houston, TX and Tacoma, WA

Moving from Houston, TX, to Tacoma, WA, entails not just a change of scenery but also immersing yourself in communities with distinct cultural, political, and religious compositions. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Houston & Tacoma, preparing you for the local vibe and community values in your new city.

HoustonTacoma

Political Make-up

Liberal-leaning, diverseProgressive, environmentally conscious

Local Politics

Highly competitive, national impactCommunity-focused, green initiatives

Religion

Multicultural religious landscape, several mega-churchesPluralistic, strong non-religious community

In comparing both cities, you'll encounter a liberal and progressive atmosphere, but Tacoma tends to have a stronger emphasis on environmental sustainability within its local political scene, reflecting the broader values of the Pacific Northwest. This commitment is evident in Tacoma's dedication to green initiatives and a community that prioritizes ecological responsibility. Religion in Houston presents a broader spectrum of multicultural expressions with numerous large congregations and mega-churches, highlighting its diverse population. In contrast, Tacoma's religious landscape is more pluralistic, with a notable presence of non-religious communities alongside various faiths, mirroring the city's liberal, inclusive ethos.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Houston to Tacoma

Moving from Houston, TX to Tacoma, WA? This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Houston & Tacoma to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like in these two cities.

HoustonTacoma
2725

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

56

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingMore feasible

Can you get by without car?

While the average commute time in Houston and Tacoma are relatively similar, you'll find a significant difference in traffic congestion levels. Houston's traffic can be quite challenging, scoring higher on congestion compared to Tacoma. This highlights the easier commuting experience in Tacoma, where traffic flows more smoothly. Moreover, public transportation options are somewhat more accessible in Tacoma than in Houston, making it easier for you to get around without a car. Although both cities offer public transit systems, Tacoma's system is slightly more convenient for daily commuters, offering a variety of options like the Sound Transit’s light rail and buses.Sound Transit. This makes transitioning from relying on a car in Houston to possibly utilizing more public transit options in Tacoma a viable consideration for your move.

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