where's the best place to live in Tacoma area?

jax67 · Feb 4, 2013

Hey all. I just took a job at a hospital in Tacoma and would like your inputs about the area. Where is the safest area to live in? I heard some crazy stories about Tacoma and am a little worried since I'm the only person living out on my own. I don't want to live too far away from work since I know that traffic can get fairly bad. Your suggestions is greatly appreciated.

i've lived in WA for a long time and you are right, there are definately some interesting stories attached to Tacoma. however there are good parts too! this is just general information (and just an opinon).. i would stay away from lakewood and hilltop areas. i know folks who live in old town/ruston way and university place and their experiences have been pleasant. depending on what facility you are working at, you could also look at spanaway (not a city atmosphere - more rural.. think farmland), fircrest, NE tacoma (north near federal way) or even puyallup.. i am unfamiliar with the area near the military base, parkland and i don't recommend federal way. i personally would live in old town near pacific ave or in puyallup but that's me. i would also ask your coworkers or HR if they recommend certain neighborhoods. sorry i can't be more specific. good luck and congrats on your job!

SimplisticRnx · Feb 4, 2013

Thanks for your input. I greatly appreciate you responding as I am continuing to research more about the area. I'll try to avoid Federal Way and the east part of Tacoma. I heard University Place is a good place, maybe I'll check it out. Thanks a bunch.

satherp5 · Feb 15, 2013

I lived in Tacoma for a couple years. NE Tacoma (Browns Point) is one of the nicest areas in western Washington. If you can find something you can afford definitely live there.

If not, then stick to north Tacoma. Point Defiance, old town or stadium district. Just make sure you're at least a couple blocks north of Wright Park. The best pub is right there too. The Parkway, definitely check it out.

tokmom, BSN, RN · Feb 18, 2013

Parkland= avoid, lol. Used to live there and it still isn't any better.What the others mentioned are nicer places in Tacoma. If you want to move out, then Browns Point, and even Puyallup is nice.