So, why Tacoma, you ask?
Well, it's a whole vibe that just clicked for me when I made my first trip from the Southwest. First off, clean air and water are a big deal here. Coming from the hustle and bustle of the city, the fact that Tacoma takes keeping things eco-friendly seriously was a game-changer. Breathing fresh air and being around pristine waterways? Yeah, sign me up. Living in the desert Southwest for many years, I had become accustomed to dry windy winters and scorching hot summers. Sure, there’s more sunshine but when was the last time you saw a bald eagle fly overhead?
Speaking of eagles, let's talk nature. Nestled between Puget Sound and the majestic Mount Rainier, Tacoma is a postcard waiting to happen and often you’ll hear people exclaim “the mountain is out”. It’s a locals saying that acknowledges the beauty and majesty of Mount Rainier. And walkability? I’m talking parks, trails, and outdoor spots that make you want to hug a tree—literally. Point Defiance Park, the Japanese Garden, or just a stroll along Ruston Way with that killer water view—it's a nature lover's dream. And throughout the city there are countless neighborhood parks, trails and places to enjoy quiet. Tacoma is only about 250K residents, and that capacity keeps out the hustle and bustle, while retaining it’s charm and distinctiveness.
Having Seattle-Tacoma airport 30 minutes away by car is truly a game changer. It’s close enough to access easily, but far enough away to avoid the flight path. And there are endless direct domestic flights and incredible international direct flights into Tokyo, London, Toronto and even Anchorage. Having that ease of travel access was something really important to me, as I discovered just another reason why I love the area so much.
Living outdoors isn't just a catchphrase here; it's a way of life. Whether it's kayaking in Puget Sound, hiking in nearby national parks, or just soaking in the community vibes at local events—Tacoma is all about that active, outdoorsy lifestyle. It's like the city itself is cheering you on to get out there and live your best life. Now, I would say it’s certainly different than Boulder, Colorado or Salt Lake City, Utah. Because of the water access, it’s green everywhere, and with the water surrounding most of the areas you’ll see, it’s an outdoor persons paradise. Whether you end up in Olympic National Park at the Hoh Rainforest, whale watching along the San Juan Islands or kayaking along Gig Harbor with otters, you’re going to rediscover the child in you.
But here's the kicker—small-town vibes in a city setting. Tacoma might be part of the Seattle-Tacoma scene, but it's got this down-home, friendly vibe.almost like what Seattle used to be like. Local businesses thriving, community events buzzing—there's this intimate feel that's hard to find elsewhere. Moving here wasn't just about finding a place to live; it was about finding a community that gets you. Sure, every city has it’s downsides and challenges and Tacoma is no different. But in the last 20 years, Tacoma has really taken off and been rediscovered by people who had written it off as too gritty, too much crime or too depressed. Those times have passed and Tacoma is on a major upswing.
So, why Tacoma? Because it's a little bit of everything I was looking for—clean living, nature's bounty, easy travel, outdoor adventures, and that cozy small-town feeling. Tacoma, for me, isn't just a city; it's a lifestyle, and I'm here for it.
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