Last updated 2026-06-15 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
Above the national average, a more affordable alternative to Seattle with no state income tax.
Cost of living index (US avg = 100): 112
Median 2BR rent: $1,800/mo
Housing: 116 vs 100
Groceries: 106 vs 100
Utilities: 97 vs 100
Transportation: 106 vs 100
Healthcare: 104 vs 100
Tacoma offers Puget Sound views, a revitalized downtown, and rent well below Seattle, with no state income tax. Costs run above the national average but are a clear discount to Seattle just up the road.