East Fife - Fife, WA

Discovered in 1940, East Fife was part of a berry-growing and gardening district featuring shops and markets. Officially established in 1957, this community was named after prestigious Tacoma lawyer William J. Fife. In addition to being a lawyer Fife prospected in the Yukon, served in the Washington National Guard, and was a Lieutenant Colonel during the Philippine insurrection in the early 1900s. East Fife was established between the Puyallup River and Puget Sound, and the area quickly grew -- both in population and economically.

Popular among locals, the Fife History Museum on 54th Avenue East sits in the home of Louis Dacca, an original member of the city council. The museum hosts various changing exhibits throughout the year. A volunteer-based facility, admission is always free.

Located on 20th Street East, Joe's Deli serves satisfied customers day in and day out. The deli is best known for its giant, inexpensive, and tasty breakfast burritos. Though locals say you cannot go wrong with any item on the menu, they tend to rave about the tuna salad sandwich. Joe's Deli even delivers -- a convenience locals love.

Warthog Barbecue Pit is said to have the best barbecue-style food in town, and the ribs and sandwiches come highly recommended. Complement the main course with the restaurant's renowned macaroni and cheese or coleslaw. Enjoy a variety of drinks, including beer, and use Warthog's catering services for all types of events. With an outdoor deck, sports televisions, and a wildlife-inspired dining area, Warthog Barbecue Pit creates a unique backyard vibe.

For all you cigar lovers out there, Smokey Joe's Cigar Lounge carries premium, hand-rolled cigars and delectable cocktails to match. Locals fancy this old-fashioned lounge filled with cozy oversized chairs, honey peanuts and quality conversations. With an attentive staff and a variety of food selections, the cigar lounge sells only the finest cigar brands, including Cuban Stock and Alec Bradley.

Many locals drive their own vehicles and utilize the public transportation system, Sound Transit. With options to ride the bus, ferry, rail, or train, Sound Transit carries riders to many surrounding areas, including King and Snohomish Counties. For travel within a single county, the fare runs $2.50. Travel within multiple counties costs $3.50. Children and seniors ride at reduced rates.

Cab services, including Lyft and Uber, also accommodate residents. Most establishments provide free parking to customers. Parking structures can be found off of Pacific Highway East and South 56th Street. Parking meters run along 5th and Westlake Avenues. The meters accept credit cards and are free on Sundays.

Safe and walkable, many residents reach their destinations by foot. East Fife supports eco-friendly lifestyles and has more than 20 bicycling trails to accommodate bikers. Major highways I-5 and I-705 are easily accessible from this neighborhood.

Filled with parks and recreational activities, East Fife gives residents fun things to do year-round. Centennial Park on 23rd Avenue, a local favorite, has yards of open green space, making it perfect for playing sports or enjoying picnics. The park also houses basketball courts and walking trails. Fountain Memorial Park overflows with lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Located off of 54th Avenue, this gorgeous park links the community swim center, the fire station, the local high school, and city hall together. Both kid and dog friendly, Fountain Memorial Park also has walking trails and a playground.

Every year, the Fife Performing Arts Center on 54th Avenue hosts a Nutcracker Ballet Performance. Tickets cost $13 in advance and $15 at the door. Dacca Park hosts an annual Easter egg hunt for children and teenagers.

Living in East Fife costs 19.9 percent less than the Seattle average and 16.2 percent more than the national average. Traveling to the city center via public transportation costs around $2.00. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment runs about $786 per month.

Locals pay anywhere from $3 to $6 for a beer at a local pub, depending on whether the pick is domestic or hand-crafted. Most bars and restaurants host superb happy hours. For example, Kells Irish Pub has happy hours Monday through Thursday from 3-6 pm and 10:00 pm to close.

Gas prices in East Fife run 2.6 percent higher than the national average.

After renting an apartment in East Fife, you'll likely join other locals at University Village, an outdoor mall that houses both designer-brand shops and signature boutiques. With over 100 stores to choose from, shoppers have access to casual and elegant dining options, including Blue C Sushi and Jamba Juice. Every Tuesday the mall hosts village play days, an event that includes free story time and entertaining activities for kids.

One Polar Boutique, located on 1st Avenue, carries fashionable women's clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories for great prices. For that perfect dress on your wedding day, check out Belltown Bride on 4th Avenue. Home to some of the most elegant bridal selections, the boutique sells the work of top designers like Casablanca and remains a big hit with brides-to-be.

Locals often shop at Kusher Bakery for baked goods. Deemed a local gem, the bakery carries a wide array of fresh, tasty options. Tahoma Market is a neighborhood grocery store with produce, meats, and other necessities. Fife Farmers Market carries goods from local vendors.