Best Tampa to Tacoma Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Tampa to Tacoma and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,203 mile move from Florida to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Tampa to Tacoma moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is John Volken Academy Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $11,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tampa compared to Tacoma. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Tampa to Tacoma Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Let's Get Moving | 9.14 | 9.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Two Men and a Truck | 9.06 | 8.51 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Pride Moving | 8.50 | 9.11 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Tampa to Tacoma
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,203 miles from Tampa, FL to Tacoma, WA will cost on average $4,505 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tampa to Tacoma move is roughly $10,902. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $3,018 | 300 ft³ | 10.06 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,505 | 450 ft³ | 10.01 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,471 | 750 ft³ | 9.96 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,902 | 1100 ft³ | 9.91 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,778 | 1600 ft³ | 9.86 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,660 | 1800 ft³ | 9.81 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to Tampa guide.
Compare the 5 Best Tampa to Tacoma Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
First Due Movers
8126 304th Ave SE
Preston, WA, 98050
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1990914 / 865709 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 205,000 (2022) |
Let's Get Moving
6599 Haines Rd N
St. Petersburg, FL, 33702
About Let's Get Moving
This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida...
Services
- Commercial moving services
- Residential moving services
- Local moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2270761 / 775415 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,000 (2023) |
Two Men and a Truck
2549 Seven Springs Blvd
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2113690 / FF-19726
812151 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 13 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 310,000 (2023) |
Pride Moving
Tampa, FL
About Pride Moving
Pride Moving is a family-owned and operated moving company with over 20 years of experience, serving the Tampa Bay area and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Cross-Country Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1835336 / 665351 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 380,557 (2023) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Tampa vs. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison
When considering a move from one city to another, getting to know your new home’s neighborhoods is crucial. To help with this, we're offering a comparison of local neighborhoods between Tampa, FL, & Tacoma, WA . This guide aims to match you with an area in Tacoma that shares the vibes and amenities you loved back in Tampa, making your transition as seamless as possible.
| Tampa | Tacoma | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Hyde Park | Old Town | Historic charm, boutique shopping |
| South Tampa | Proctor District | Upscale, community-focused |
| Seminole Heights | 6th Avenue | Eclectic vibe, local eateries |
| Ybor City | Stadium District | Vibrant nightlife, historic buildings |
| Davis Islands | Ruston | Waterfront views, luxury living |
| New Tampa | North End | Sprawling parks, family-friendly |
| Channelside | Downtown Tacoma | Urban living, waterside attractions |
| Palma Ceia | Stadium District | Quiet residential areas, historic homes |
| Westshore | Point Ruston | Shopping, dining, waterfront activities |
| Carrollwood | University Place | Suburban feel, local businesses |
Exploring the comparison further, Tampa's Hyde Park is analogous to Tacoma's Old Town, where the vibe of historic significance meets modern living with boutique shops and restaurants like Old Town Lifestyle. Similarly, Ybor City and the Stadium District share a lively atmosphere, renowned for their vibrant nightlife and array of historic sites, such as the Tacoma Historical Society Museum in the Stadium District. For those who cherish waterfront living and upscale amenities in Davis Islands, Ruston offers a comparable lifestyle with its luxury accommodations and scenic views along the waterfront, highlighted by activities and dining at Point Defiance Marina. These shared characteristics between Tampa and Tacoma neighborhoods can ease the transition for newcomers seeking a similar community vibe and lifestyle.
Things to Do in Tacoma
Explore Point Defiance Park- Visit Museum of Glass
- Stroll along Ruston Way Waterfront
- Shop at Proctor District
- Catch a movie at The Grand Cinema
- Enjoy America's Car Museum
- Attend Tacoma Art Walk
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Tampa to Tacoma
Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that comes with its advantages and disadvantages. This comparison aims to shed light on the pros and cons of moving from Tampa, FL to Tacoma, WA, providing an honest reflection on what you can expect. We'll explore the differences in climate, lifestyle, and culture to help you prepare for your relocation.
Tampa, FL- High humidity
- Hurricane season
- Flat landscape
- Limited public transit
Tacoma, WA- Milder summers
- Lesser natural disasters
- Mountain views
- Better public transit options
Tacoma, WA- Cooler weather
- Less nightlife
- Higher cost of living
- More rainy days
Tampa, FL- Beaches nearby
- Vibrant nightlife
- Lower cost of living
- Year-round sunshine
While Tampa boasts warm weather and beautiful beaches like Clearwater, the move to Tacoma introduces you to a new landscape filled with breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and plenty of neighborhood parks such as Point Defiance Park. Tacoma's thriving arts scene, encompassing the Tacoma Art Museum and the Museum of Glass, offers cultural experiences that Tampa's vibrant nightlife cannot match. Furthermore, Tacoma's commitment to public transit, with options like the Link Light Rail, facilitates easier city navigation compared to Tampa. While you might miss Tampa's year-round sunshine and lively beaches, Tacoma's natural beauty, cultural richness, and improved public transit present a compelling new chapter in your life.
Tampa vs. Tacoma Food Guide
Understanding the local cuisine is a peek into the soul of a city's culture and lifestyle. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tampa & Tacoma , aiming to arm you with knowledge about what your new food scene could look like when moving from the sunny coasts of Florida to the lush landscapes of Washington.
| Tampa | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cuban Sandwich | Teriyaki |
| Most popular meat dish | Grouper Sandwich | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular street food item | Empanadas | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Black Bean Burgers | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Tampa, the Cuban Sandwich, a delicious staple found in many local eateries, such as the historic Columbia Restaurant, highlights the city's Cuban heritage. On the flip side, Tacoma’s lush surroundings influence its iconic Dungeness Crab dishes, available in various waterfront dining spots including Indochine Asian Dining Lounge. Vegan and health-conscious living thrives in both cities, with an increasing number of establishments catering to plant-based and fitness-focused lifestyles. Tampa’s vibrant food truck scene, influenced by its diverse cultural palate, and Tacoma’s burgeoning foodie culture, epitomize the cities' innovative and inclusive approach to culinary delights.
Tampa vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering places that remind you directly of home. This restaurant comparison is specifically designed to help those moving from Tampa, FL to Tacoma, WA feel more at home by linking old favorites with new discoveries. Whether you're looking for a luxurious dining experience, a casual eatery, or foodie-approved spots, this guide will serve as your compass in finding your next go-to restaurants.
| Tampa | Tacoma | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bern's Steak House | El Gaucho Tacoma | Upscale steakhouse with an intimate dining atmosphere |
| Columbia Restaurant | Asado Cucina Argentina | Offers a similar fusion of Latin flavors and elegant dining |
| Ulele | Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Though more Asian fusion, it matches Ulele's unique flavors and beautiful ambiance |
| Datz | Dirty Oscar's Annex | Known for its creative take on classic American dishes |
| Ella’s Americana Folk Art Cafe | Over The Moon Cafe | Both offer a cozy atmosphere with eclectic and artistic flair |
| La Segunda Central Bakery | Corina Bakery | Captures a similar local bakery charm, known for its pastries and cakes |
| Oystercatchers | The Fish Peddler | Both specialize in fresh, locally-sourced seafood dishes |
| Rooster & the Till | Marzano Italian Restaurant | While Italian, it provides a similar modern, farm-to-table dining experience |
| Edison: Food+Drink Lab | En Rama | Known for its innovative cuisine and cocktail program |
| Wright's Gourmet House | MSM Deli | Famous for sandwiches that have become a local staple, somewhat akin to Wright's status in Tampa |
When the craving for a culinary adventure strikes, Tacoma's El Gaucho Tacoma stands as a testament to fine dining, akin to the esteemed Bern's Steak House in Tampa, offering meticulously prepared steaks and an exceptional wine list. Similarly, Indochine Asian Dining Lounge in Tacoma echoes the innovative spirit and eclectic ambiance that Ulele is celebrated for in Tampa, albeit with a twist in the flavor profile towards Asian fusion. For those seeking the artistic and eccentrical ambiance coupled with heartwarming dishes, Tacoma’s Over The Moon Cafe mirrors the experience one might find at Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe, making the transition from the tastes of Tampa to the flavors of Tacoma a journey of culinary exploration and homey comfort.
Ready to start your move?
Tampa vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is pivotal when considering a move. Understanding how Tampa and Tacoma compare in housing costs, architecture, walkability, and more, can significantly impact your decision. This comparison aims to provide key insights into both cities to help make your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Tampa | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish and Mediterranean | Northwest Craftsman and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Beach access, outdoor pools | Mountain views, proximity to parks |
When looking at Tampa and Tacoma, you'll notice differences in housing costs and lifestyles. Tampa's median home price is more affordable compared to Tacoma, though the monthly rent is slightly less in Tacoma. The architectural styles also reflect the regions' histories and climates, with Tampa favoring Spanish and Mediterranean influences, whereas Tacoma more often showcases Northwest Craftsman and Modern designs. Tacoma ranks higher in terms of walkability and bikeability, offering a more pedestrian-friendly environment. Additionally, real estate listings in Tacoma frequently highlight mountain views and access to parks, contrasting with Tampa's emphasis on beach access and outdoor pools. These distinctions paint a picture of what life might look like in each city, helping you anticipate your new surroundings.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA
1. North End: With its sprawling Ruston Way Waterfront and multiple dog-friendly parks, North End offers you and your pet ample green space and scenic walks along Commencement Bay.
2. Proctor District: The walkable neighborhood vibe of the Proctor District is enhanced by its pet-friendly businesses and the nearby Point Defiance Park, offering endless outdoor adventures for you and your furry friend.
3. Stadium District: Known for its historic charm, the Stadium District features pet-friendly cafes and easy access to Wright Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners who enjoy urban living with a touch of nature.
Tampa vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, understanding the climate differences is essential. This comparison chart will provide a clear view of how Tampa's sunny and humid climate contrasts with Tacoma's cooler and wetter atmosphere. By comparing Tampa, FL and Tacoma, WA's weather , you'll be better prepared for your move.
Tampa, FL
Tacoma, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tampa, FL
Tacoma, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tampa, FL
Tacoma, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tampa, FL
Tacoma, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tampa | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Thunderstorms | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In transitioning from Tampa to Tacoma, one appealing change may be the significant reduction in hot and humid summer days, perfect for those who prefer milder temperatures. However, the number of sunny days in Tacoma is considerably lower, meaning you might need to adjust to more overcast conditions. Also, while Tampa faces hurricanes, moving to Tacoma introduces the possibility of earthquakes and volcanic activity, presenting a different set of natural disaster preparedness measures. Air quality in Tacoma tends to be better, which is a plus, but prepare for more frequent encounters with rain and possibly snow, a rarity in Tampa.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tampa to Tacoma
When considering relocating from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how your financial situation might change. This comparison will illuminate the financial landscape from Tampa, FL to Tacoma, WA , helping you anticipate and plan for the cost of living, taxation, and the economic environment you're moving into.
| Comparison | Tampa | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $63,404 | $77,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.4 | 109.5 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.97% | 1.08% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5% | 10.1% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Retail, Tourism | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Generally affluent |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Significant |
The data highlights key differences you should consider when moving from Tampa to Tacoma. The average household income is higher in Tacoma, which aligns with its higher cost of living index. Despite both states having a 0% state income tax, Tacoma presents a higher average sales and property tax, reflecting the overall elevated expenses you might encounter. Industry-wise, while both cities thrive on healthcare and retail, Tacoma has a notable manufacturing sector, offering diverse job opportunities. However, issues like poverty and homelessness, though differing in degrees, pose challenges in both cities, underscoring the importance of community support and social services in your new locale.
Tampa vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Tampa, FL to Tacoma, WA, understanding the local environment is crucial for a smooth transition. This quick overview offers a snapshot of the comparison of the politics and religious landscapes between Tampa & Tacoma , aiming to help you acclimate to your new surroundings more easily.
| Tampa | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with progressive pockets | Progressive |
| Religion | Christian (Catholic and Protestant), with diverse religious communities | Diverse, with a notable presence of Christian and non-religious populations |
The shift from Tampa's moderately Democratic leaning to Tacoma's strongly Democratic stance represents a significant change in the political landscape you'll encounter. While both cities offer a diverse religious fabric, with Tampa hosting a blend of Christian denominations and Tacoma having a vibrant mix of Christian and non-religious residents, the overall feel of local politics in Tacoma tends to be more progressive. Understanding these distinctions can help you navigate your new community in Tacoma more effectively, fostering smoother interactions and integration.
Tampa vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Tampa, FL to Tacoma, WA? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tampa & Tacoma will help you better understand what to expect in terms of your daily commute and the overall traffic situation in both cities.
| Comparison | Tampa | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, with some effort |
While Tampa and Tacoma offer similar average commute times, Tacoma experiences less traffic congestion, making your daily commute potentially less stressful. The availability of public transit in Tacoma is notably better than in Tampa, reflecting Tacoma’s investment into a more comprehensive public transportation system. Getting by without a car in Tacoma is more feasible than in Tampa, thanks to this stronger emphasis on public transit options and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. This is an important aspect to consider if you prefer a lifestyle that doesn’t rely heavily on personal vehicle usage.
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