Tacoma
Living in Tacoma offers sweeping views of Mount Rainier and easy access to Puget Sound's waterfront. This port city features an array of housing options, from historic Craftsman homes in the North End to apartments in downtown. Point Defiance Park spans 700 acres, featuring beaches, hiking trails, and the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. The Stadium and Proctor Districts each offer local shops and restaurants within walkable neighborhoods. Current rental data shows average rents of $1,481 for one-bedroom apartments with a 1.93% annual increase. The Museum of Glass, connected to downtown by the Bridge of Glass showcasing Dale Chihuly's works, anchors Tacoma's museum district. The University of Washington Tacoma campus occupies beautifully restored historic warehouses, while the Theatre District's Pantages Theater hosts performances throughout the year. The city's dining scene flourishes along 6th Avenue and in the Lincoln International District. Ruston Way's waterfront path offers waterside dining and recreation opportunities with panoramic views. Originally a railroad terminus, Tacoma retains its historic architecture while embracing modern development throughout its neighborhoods.
Puyallup
Located in the Puyallup Valley, this western Washington city combines suburban living with historic character. The community of 43,000 residents offers various housing options from downtown apartments to residential neighborhoods, with rental rates averaging $1,583 for one-bedroom units and $1,937 for two-bedroom homes. Downtown's Meridian Street features an antique district where local shops and restaurants create a welcoming atmosphere. Pioneer Park, a central community gathering place, includes a public library, walking paths, and hosts one of Washington state's largest farmers' markets from April through October. Puyallup celebrates its agricultural roots while embracing contemporary life, highlighted by the Washington State Fair, which draws visitors from across the region to the fairgrounds. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy easy access to Mount Rainier and the Pierce County Foothills Trail. Pierce College Puyallup and the Puyallup School District serve the educational needs of residents. The rental market remains steady, with South Hill and downtown locations offering proximity to shopping centers and entertainment. Local landmarks include the restored Ezra Meeker Mansion and the Karshner Museum, while public art installations throughout downtown showcase the community's creative spirit.
Lakewood
Gorgeous flowers, sparkling lakes, views of Mt. Rainier, Puget Sound, and even a castle -- you may think it can't get any better, but Lakewood is just getting started. This beautiful city borders Tacoma on its north side and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, the largest base on the West Coast, on its south side. More than 540 acres of the city is park space, and when you move to Lakewood, you'll appreciate the ample opportunity to hike, water-ski, row, fish, swim, and picnic. Lakewood is aptly named, since it is a wooded community featuring five lakes, including the large American Lake. Lakeside beaches provide activities like swimming, and lakefront parks provide boat launches. Fort Steilacoom Park features an off-leash dog park, ball fields, and Waughop Lake. When you move to your new apartment in Lakewood, be sure to visit Thornewood. This gorgeous castle was built in 1909, but the bricks are from a dismantled 15th-century manor imported from England. Now a bed and breakfast, the castle has served as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including the 2007 Oscar-winning film, "There Will Be Blood." When you move to your new apartment in Lakewood, be sure to visit Thornewood. This gorgeous castle was built in 1909, but the bricks are from a dismantled 15th-century manor imported from England. Now a bed and breakfast, the castle has served as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including the 2007 Oscar-winning film, "There Will Be Blood."
