Tacoma, WA Rent To Own Homes

Rent-to-Own Homes in Tacoma, WA: What You Need to Know

Sitting on the banks of the Puget Sound, just 33 miles southwest of Seattle, Tacoma, Washington shares its rich history with Pierce County and its environs. These lands were occupied for millennia by native peoples, living off the sustenance of the ocean, rivers, and lakes. In 1792, the British explorer George Vancouver was the first European to take an interest in the region, commissioning Lieutenant Peter Puget to make a deeper survey of the area. Settlement, trading and missionary work followed, as did the Northern Pacific Railroad. Colleges and universities were established in the 19th century. Wars in the 20th century contributed to Tacoma's rise as a major port and home to an airport and other infrastructure. Its prosperity and growth has been steady ever since.

The Local Sports Scene

Being situated so close to Seattle, Tacoma residents root for teams like the Seahawks (NFL), Mariners (MLB), the Storm (WNBA) and Sounders FC (soccer). They can also look forward to a new NHL franchise, the Seattle Kraken. Closer to home, Tacoma denizens can support the NCAA teams sponsored by Pacific Lutheran University and the University of Puget Sound. For those non-spectators who like to mix it up, Tacoma has an extensive system of parks and recreation facilities.

Climate and Weather

Many people across the United States equate the Seattle-Tacoma metro area with constant rainfall. While this is an exaggeration, cold-weather months see precipitation between six and seven inches, and the annual amount falls just under 40 inches. Little, if any, is snow. The average low temperature in mid-winter is 37ºF while mid-summer highs camp out around 77ºF. Tacoma tends to be cloudy, more or less, but the skies are most clear during the summer months.

What’s the Cost of Living in Tacoma, WA? 

In terms of food, healthcare, and housing, Tacoma exceeds the U.S. national average in cost. Median home prices sit at $337,631. For renters, the median monthly rent is $1,058. Utility bills average out at $191 per month, while phone service does likewise at $203, this is often when phone, cable and internet are bundled. Food prices are on the high end. Overall, living in Tacoma demands 8% more money than the national average.

Where are the Best Places to Shop in Tacoma, WA?

Retail is ubiquitous and diverse in Tacoma where, according to Pierce County tourist marketing, you can "exchange currency for coolness." The city is home to numerous malls, specialty stores, art galleries and fashion boutiques. Among these retail venues is Antiques Row in downtown Tacoma, where all manner of unique furnishings, crafts, and bric-a-brac can be procured. Ceramic and pottery artisans, glass blowers, and other craftspeople work throughout the city to highlight their creations. These artists often gather at the Tacoma Night Market to sell and demonstrate their skills in various venues.