Apartments for Rent in Tacoma, WA (1,532 Rentals)

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Tacoma, WA Local Guide

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Tacoma Overview

Tacoma, Washington is a bustling port city located about 45 minutes south of Seattle. It offers many of the benefits of living in a larger city, but apartments in Tacoma are more affordable. Give this city a closer look if you need a new home.

What is the history of Tacoma?

The area we know as Tacoma was originally inhabited by the Puyallup American Indian tribe. Western settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, and the modern city began to grow after it became the end stop of the Transcontinental Railroad. The city gets its name from the indigenous name for nearby Mount Rainier.

How is the weather in Tacoma?

Tacoma enjoys mild weather year-round, with summer highs in the upper-70s and winter highs in the upper-30s. Snow is uncommon, but the area does get significant amounts of rainfall, although it receives a bit less than the notoriously rainy Seattle. Those who don't like being too hot or too cold are likely to be happy in Tacoma.

How do I get around town?

If you live in Tacoma, you’re likely to make use of the city’s public transportation system. Busses and light rail trains make getting around easy, but they don’t operate on a 24-hour schedule. Those who work odd hours or need more flexibility might like having a car.

What is the Tacoma commute like?

There are a number of major highways in and around Tacoma. I-5 goes through the city and will take you north to Seattle or south to Portland. Routes 16 and 509 are the major east-west roads. Since it’s a relatively small city, commute times within the city are typically short.

What are the local media outlets?

Most popular TV and radio stations come out of Seattle rather than Tacoma. However, Tacoma does have its own newspaper – The News Tribune. The Tacoma Weekly is a free newspaper that comes out weekly and primarily covers local news.

Why live in Tacoma, WA?

Tacoma may not be as flashy as Seattle, but it has a vibrant city scene of its own. It’s well-known for decorative glass, and the Tacoma Mural Project means that there are over 27 outdoor murals painted by local artists, giving the city a beautiful look and creative feel. Many view the city as a more affordable alternative to Seattle, and the money you save by living in apartments in Tacoma can be better used on the things you enjoy doing, whether that’s going for a night out on the town or heading out for an international getaway from the nearby SeaTac Airport.

What Tacoma landmarks should I see?

Tacoma is famous for the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Popularly nicknamed “Galloping Gertie,” the design of the bridge made it undulate until it collapsed in the 1940s. The replacement bridge isn’t as fun, but it’s safer. Fort Nisqually and the Point Defiance Rose garden are other popular landmarks.

What is there to do around Tacoma?

" In the downtown area, you’ll find the Museum District, which is the home to six popular museums, including an art museum and a children’s museum. Area parks offer great opportunities to play golf or take a hike in the beautiful natural surroundings."

Any annual festivals or Tacoma events to know?

With its mild weather, you can find festivals almost any time of the year, but things really get into full swing once summer starts. Be sure to check out the Taste of Tacoma festival in June and the Music and Art in Wright Park festival in August. You’ll also find a wide variety of music festivals to suit any taste.

Where are the nearby vacation spots?

" As much as you might love your home, it can also be great to get away from it all. From Tacoma, you can easily experience nature by booking a trip to Mount Rainier. Seattle and Portland also make for great getaways, and weekend trips are very affordable."

Where is the best place to move in Tacoma?

Tacoma is a thriving city with plenty of great places to live. The North End is one of the most popular areas, but the Central neighborhood is good for those who work downtown and the Northeast End and South End might work well if you need easy access to the I-5. You won’t have a long commute no matter where you live, so it’s wise to pick an area that works well for your lifestyle.

Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:
Location, Location, Location!

Explore Tacoma, WA Rentals by Map

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Getting Around Tacoma, WA

Walk Score®

59 / 100

Somewhat Walkable

Some errands can be accomplished on foot

Bike Score®

49 / 100

Somewhat Bikeable

Minimal bike infrastructure

Transit Score®

1 / 100

Minimal Transit

It may be possible to get on a bus

Frequently Asked Questions about Tacoma

How much are Studio apartments in Tacoma?

There are currently 185 Studio Apartments in Tacoma with rent ranges from $564 to $2,954 with an average price of $1,504.

What is the current price range for One Bedroom Tacoma Apartments for rent?

Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in Tacoma ranges from $589 to $4,926 with an average monthly rent of $1,788.

What does renting a Two Bedroom Apartment in Tacoma cost?

The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in Tacoma range from $589 to $6,062. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $2,110.

How expensive are Tacoma Three Bedroom Apartments?

There are currently 205 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in Tacoma on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $1,403 to $11,760 - averaging $2,728 for the location.

Expert Rental Resources

Helpful Apartment Articles, How-To's and Tips

The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.

decorative image for Battling the Butts: Your Guide to the Reality of Smoke-Free Renting article

Battling the Butts: Your Guide to the Reality of Smoke-Free Renting

Written by: Andrea Lee Negroni, JD

While many apartment buildings are “no smoking” properties, it’s hard to know exactly how many. In 2017, the National Apartment Association reported more than half of rental properties had smoke free policies.

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Understanding Amenity Fees: Know Where You Might Be Able to Save Money

Written by: Amber Kanuckel

With the rising costs of housing, a lot of renters are asking this question: Is it possible to opt out of various amenities that your rental property offers so that you can avoid paying the fees.

decorative image for How Your Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit  article

How Your Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

If you’re anything like most people, housing costs represent a huge chunk of your monthly budget. On top of that, moving can be both a stressful and expensive affair.

decorative image for Signing Your Apartment Lease: The Basics article

Signing Your Apartment Lease: The Basics

Written by: Trey Huguley

When you're about to sign a lease for the first time, it can feel a bit overwhelming. You don’t want to miss any important details hidden in the fine print.