10 Things You Need To Know Before Moving To Tacoma Washington

Introduction: Are you considering a move to Tacoma, Washington? As an expert on the area, I want to share some valuable insights to help you prepare for your relocation. In this blog post, we will discuss ten things that I genuinely wish I knew before I made the move from the Midwest to Tacoma. From traffic and neighborhoods to unique local customs, let's dive into the details and help you have a smooth transition to this beautiful city.

1. Time, Not Miles: One thing that caught me off guard when I moved to Tacoma was how trips should be measured in minutes rather than miles. For example, Seattle is only about 33 minutes away from Tacoma, but due to traffic, it often takes over an hour to reach the city. So, it's important to plan your daily activities accordingly, factoring in the time it takes to travel between places.

2. Traffic Woes: Traffic in both Tacoma and Seattle can be quite challenging. Compared to other parts of the country, congestion is a significant issue here. Construction work on the highways is a common sight, leading to delays and slower travel times. Additionally, the average driving speed tends to be slower than what you may be accustomed to. So, be prepared to plan your schedule wisely and expect some delays during peak hours.

3. Air Conditioning: Surprisingly, air conditioning is not as common in homes in Tacoma as it is in other parts of the United States. Less than 35% of homes in Tacoma have air conditioning, despite the occasional hot summer days. Washington's temperate climate, with only a few days reaching high temperatures, makes air conditioning less of a necessity. However, it's good to be aware of this when searching for a new home in Tacoma.

4. Basements Are Rare: Coming from the Midwest, where basements are common due to the threat of tornadoes, I was surprised to find that basements are not prevalent in Tacoma. The high water table and rainy climate make basements less practical. So, if you're used to having a basement for storage or extra living space, you may need to adjust your expectations when searching for a home in Tacoma.

5. Diverse Neighborhoods: Tacoma offers a wide variety of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and architectural styles. From North Tacoma to South Tacoma, Park Brooklyn to Ruston, there is something for everyone. When I was searching for a home, I found it challenging to visualize the different neighborhoods without physically exploring them. However, researching and watching videos showcasing different neighborhoods can give you a better sense of what to expect.

6. Pacific Northwest Seasons: The seasons in Tacoma start a bit later compared to other regions. Summer doesn't fully kick in until around July 5th, while the rainy season typically extends from April to June. Known as the "June Gloom," this period can be characterized by gray skies and rain. It's essential to adjust your expectations and be prepared for a longer winter and a delayed start to summer.

7. The Big Dark: Between October and March, Washington experiences what locals refer to as the "big dark." During this time, the state is often under a constant state of gray due to overcast skies. With shorter daylight hours, it can have a psychological impact on some individuals, leading to seasonal depression. If you find yourself affected, don't hesitate to seek support, talk to your doctor, and consider remedies such as vitamin D supplementation or light therapy.

8. Sales Tax: While Washington State has no income tax, sales tax can be higher than expected, especially in cities like Tacoma. The state's sales tax is approximately 6.5%, but Tacoma adds an additional 3.7%. Combined with the generally higher cost.

9. Umbrellas: One peculiar thing that I discovered upon moving to Tacoma was the absence of umbrellas. It seems that people in the Pacific Northwest, including Tacoma, rarely use umbrellas. It initially struck me as odd, but I quickly realized that using an umbrella is a surefire way to identify yourself as a tourist. The strong winds in the area can easily turn umbrellas inside out, rendering them useless. Instead, locals opt for practical alternatives like hoods on their coats or hoodies to shield themselves from the rain. So, don't be surprised if you find yourself walking in the rain without seeing a single umbrella in sight.

10. Quality of Life: One of the most pleasant surprises about moving to Tacoma was the significant improvement in my overall quality of life. I didn't anticipate the positive impact it would have on various aspects of my life. Firstly, my income saw a considerable increase, thanks to the opportunities available in the area. Secondly, the vibrant community and abundance of outdoor activities helped me shed excess weight and adopt a healthier lifestyle. As a result, I was able to come off certain medications and experience a general improvement in my well-being. Additionally, Tacoma offers a wide range of family-friendly activities and attractions, from attending sports games featuring the Seahawks, Mariners, and Kraken to exploring the natural beauty of the region. Whatever your interests may be, Tacoma provides ample opportunities for personal growth and enjoyment. I am truly grateful for the blessings and the enhanced quality of life I have experienced since moving to Tacoma.

In conclusion, relocating from the Midwest to Tacoma, Washington, brought about several surprises and lessons. From understanding the unique commuting times measured in minutes rather than miles, to navigating the traffic patterns and adjusting to slower driving speeds, there were numerous aspects of daily life that I wish I had known beforehand. Other unexpected revelations included the scarcity of air conditioning in homes, the absence of basements due to the region's climate, the diverse neighborhoods with their distinct architectural charm, and the different perception of seasons and the "big dark" period. Moreover, the higher sales tax, the rarity of umbrellas, and the overall improvement in quality of life were additional factors that caught me off guard. Despite these surprises, Tacoma has proven to be a wonderful place to live, offering ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, as well as a thriving community and a wide range of activities to enjoy. Moving to Tacoma has been a positive and enriching experience, and I'm excited to share this knowledge with others who are considering making the move.