Best Tacoma to Tampa Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Tacoma to Tampa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,259 mile move from Washington to Florida go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Tacoma to Tampa 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 Tacoma compared to Tampa. 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 Tacoma to Tampa 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 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Let's Get Moving | 9.14 | 9.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 9.06 | 8.51 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Tacoma to Tampa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,259 miles from Tacoma, WA to Tampa, FL will cost on average $4,553 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tacoma to Tampa move is roughly $11,019. 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 | $3,050 | 300 ft³ | 10.17 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,553 | 450 ft³ | 10.12 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,550 | 750 ft³ | 10.07 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $11,019 | 1100 ft³ | 10.02 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,947 | 1600 ft³ | 9.97 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,851 | 1800 ft³ | 9.92 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tampa to Tacoma guide.
Compare the 5 Best Tacoma to Tampa 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) |
People Movers
11808 NE 160th St
Bothell, WA, 98011
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2023) |
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) |
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.
Tacoma vs. Tampa Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can feel like navigating uncharted territories. To make this journey more familiar, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods from Tacoma, WA to Tampa, FL. Comparing neighborhoods between Tacoma, WA & Tampa, FL helps one discover their new potential home base by aligning it with known comforts. Find your next favorite spot in this guide!
| Tacoma | Tampa | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North End | Hyde Park | Historic homes, lively dining scene |
| Proctor District | Seminole Heights | Artsy, eclectic eateries |
| Old Town | Ybor City | Rich history, vibrant nightlife |
| Stadium District | Channel District | Urban living, entertainment options |
| Hilltop | East Tampa | Diverse, community-focused |
| New Tacoma | Downtown Tampa | Heart of the city, amenities aplenty |
| South Tacoma | Palma Ceia | Residential, near waterfront parks |
| Lincoln District | West Tampa | Cultural richness, historic |
| Central Tacoma | SoHo | Trendy, nightlife and shopping |
| Eastside | Ballast Point | Great views, family-friendly |
In transitioning from Tacoma, WA to Tampa, FL, you might find comfort in Tampa's Hyde Park if you're coming from Tacoma's North End, where historic homes and a vibrant dining scene welcome you warmly. The artsy and eclectic vibe of Seminole Heights closely mirrors the Proctor District, boasting unique eateries and local arts. If the historical allure and bustling streets of Old Town captivate you, Ybor City's rich cultural tapestry and nightlife will too. For those enjoying urban living with a flair for entertainment options, transitioning from Stadium District to Channel District will feel seamless, offering a plethora of entertainment and dining options. Each neighborhood in this guide promises a blend of familiarity and new adventures, ensuring your move feels like coming home to a place you're just getting to know.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to Tampa
Moving across the country is a big step, laden with both opportunities and challenges. This comparison offers a honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Tacoma, WA to Tampa, FL . Through contrasting pros and cons, these charts aim to provide a comprehensive snapshot to help you make an informed decision about your move.
Tacoma, WA- Higher rainfall
- Less cultural diversity
- Smaller job market
- Higher cost of living
- Lesser outdoor activities
Tampa, FL- Sunshine year-round
- More cultural diversity
- Larger job market
- Lower cost of living
- Greater outdoor activities
Tampa, FL- Hotter summers
- Flat terrain
- Less greenery
- Adjustment to new culture
- Fewer mountain adventures
Tacoma, WA- Cooler summers
- Mountainous landscapes
- More greenery
- Vibrant local culture
- Proximity to mountains
Moving from Tacoma to Tampa welcomes a significant shift in lifestyle, particularly concerning weather and outdoor activities. Tampa's abundance of sunny days throughout the year greatly enhances the possibilities for outdoor ventures, whether it's lounging on the beautiful beaches of Clearwater or exploring the vibrant ecosystem of Lettuce Lake Park. In contrast, while Tacoma's cooler summer temperatures and lush, mountainous landscapes offer their unique brand of outdoor experience, like hiking in Point Defiance Park, Tampa's flat terrain and warmer climate introduce new hobbies, such as sailing or fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Culturally, Tampa's diverse population translates into a rich tapestry of food, festivals, and music, with establishments like the historic Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City or the immersive experiences at the Tampa Bay History Center providing a glimpse into the area's heritage and diversity.
Tacoma vs. Tampa Food Guide
When you're moving, understanding the local food scene is crucial since this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma & Tampa, allowing you to get a taste, quite literally, of what your new home has to offer. Let's dive into the culinary worlds of both cities to help you better appreciate the flavors that will surround you.
| Tacoma | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Dungeness crab | Cuban sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Grilled salmon | Deviled crab |
| Most popular street food item | Teriyaki | Empanadas |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan pho | Black bean burger |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Tampa, the Cuban sandwich serves as not just a meal but a melting pot of cultural influences, best enjoyed in the historic Ybor City neighborhood, known for its vibrant food scene. Tampa's culinary landscape is diverse, offering everything from gourmet dining at Bern's Steak House to the casual waterfront charm of Ulele. Whether you're in the mood for contemporary takes on traditional dishes or seeking vegan delights like the popular black bean burger found in many local eateries, you'll find that Tampa's food scene is as warm and inviting as its climate. The emphasis on fresh seafood, vibrant Latin flavors, and a growing number of food trucks dotting the cityscape ensures your taste buds will never be bored.
Tacoma vs. Tampa Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in cuisine is crucial when relocating. This restaurant comparison between Tacoma and Tampa is designed to ease your transition, helping you discover new favorite spots that mirror the comfort and flavors of your current local eateries.
| Tacoma | Tampa | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Bamboozle Café | Fresh, vibrant Vietnamese flavors in a casual setting. |
| The Table | Rooster & the Till | Innovative, seasonal menu showcasing local ingredients. |
| Over the Moon Cafe | Café Dufrain | Intimate, cozy atmosphere with creative American cuisine. |
| Pacific Grill | Oxford Exchange | Unique, upscale dining with a diverse menu. |
| Mosi Bakery, Café & Deli | Datz | Eclectic, comfort food with a creative twist. |
| El Gaucho Tacoma | Bern's Steak House | High-end steakhouse with an impressive wine list. |
| WildFin American Grill | Eddie V's Prime Seafood | Fine dining seafood with a lively bar scene. |
| Metro Coffee | Buddy Brew Coffee | Specialty coffee shop with a focus on craftsmanship. |
| Boathouse 19 | Ulele | Native-inspired dishes in a waterfront setting. |
| Marzano Italian Restaurant | Osteria Natalina | Authentic Italian cuisine with a cozy, homestyle feel. |
Discovering a new city's culinary scene can be a thrilling adventure that ties you closer to your new home. For instance, those accustomed to the upscale, but relaxed atmosphere of El Gaucho Tacoma will find solace in the storied walls and extensive wine list of Bern's Steak House in Tampa. Similarly, if the vibrant Vietnamese flavors of Indochine Asian Dining Lounge are what you crave, the fresh and health-conscious offerings at Bamboozle Café will not disappoint. This is just the beginning of a flavorful journey. Embrace these comparisons as a starting point to explore the rich tapestry of Tampa's dining scene, making the city feel more like home with every bite.
Ready to start your move?
Tacoma vs. Tampa Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, it's crucial to understand the real estate landscape of your destination. Comparing housing aspects between Tacoma and Tampa reveals significant insights into cost, living experience, and community amenities. This knowledge is vital for making an informed decision about your new home.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Northwest Craftsman | Spanish and Mediterranean |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views of Mt. Rainier, Large backyards | Waterfront access, Outdoor living spaces |
Delving deeper, the difference in median home prices between Tacoma and Tampa suggests that Tacoma might be slightly more expensive in terms of purchasing property. However, for renters, Tampa presents higher monthly rates, likely reflecting its vibrant urban lifestyle and higher walkability scores. Notably, the architecture in Tampa leans towards Spanish and Mediterranean styles, highlighting the city's rich cultural heritage and sunny climate, which contrasts with the Northwest Craftsman style prominent in Tacoma, known for its durability against wet conditions. Tampa's superior bikeability and urban lifestyle scores signify a more dynamic, outdoor-oriented living environment, underpinned by popular features such as waterfront access and outdoor living spaces in real estate listings. These details underscore the diverse living experiences offered by each city, catering to varied preferences and lifestyles.
Tacoma vs. Tampa Weather Considerations
When planning a move, it's important to consider weather differences between your current location and your new home. Understanding this aspect will ensure you're well prepared for the changes. Moving from Tacoma, WA, to Tampa, FL, requires adjusting to significant weather variations, ensuring you're well-versed in what to expect can make your transition smoother.
Tacoma, WA
Tampa, FL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
Tampa, FL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
Tampa, FL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tacoma, WA
Tampa, FL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tacoma | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate to Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Hurricanes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In transitioning from the cooler, more temperate climate of Tacoma to the warmer, subtropical environment of Tampa, several significant changes stand out. Notably, you'll find Tampa's summers much hotter and winters milder, meaning your wardrobe will need to adjust accordingly. The higher number of sunny days in Tampa could be a big plus if you prefer more outdoor activities. However, this comes with the need for greater preparedness for hurricanes, a common aspect of Tampa's climate not experienced in Tacoma. Additionally, expect different allergens due to the new plant life in Florida, which could affect those with seasonal allergies differently.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tacoma to Tampa
When planning a move, it's essential to compare financial aspects of your current and future home. This guide offers a detailed comparison of the cost of living and finance-related metrics between Tacoma, WA, and Tampa, FL , ensuring you know what to expect money-wise in your new city.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $77,141 | $63,404 |
| Cost of Living Index | 109.5 | 92.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.1 | 0.9 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Health Care, Education | Finance, Health Care, Tourism |
| Affluence | Medium | Medium |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
Moving from Tacoma to Tampa can significantly impact your finances, in part due to the differing costs of living. For instance, though both cities don't tax personal income at a state level, Tampa presents a more favorable sales tax scenario. The transition might also reflect on your housing expenses, with property taxes being marginally lower in Tampa. It's worth noting the contrast in average household incomes and the principal industries, as these could influence job prospects and economic stability. Understanding these financial nuances will better equip you for your move.
Tacoma vs. Tampa Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be an adventure and a challenge, but understanding the communities you're entering and leaving behind can ease the transition. This guide offers a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Tacoma, WA, and Tampa, FL , providing a quick glimpse into the societal landscapes of these two diverse cities.
| Tacoma | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Progressive | Moderately Progressive |
| Local Politics | Strong labor and environmental focus | Focus on business development and transportation |
| Religion | Diverse; Christian, non-religious, other faiths | Diverse; larger Christian community, non-religious, other faiths |
When moving from Tacoma to Tampa, you'll find subtle and not so subtle shifts in the societal fabric. Tacoma's political landscape is deeply influenced by its strong labor history and commitment to environmental stewardship, offering a range of community and environmental programs. Tampa, while also progressive, puts more emphasis on business development and improving transportation infrastructure. The religious makeup in both cities is quite diverse, although Tampa has a notably larger Christian community. This blend reflects in the city's numerous churches and vibrant community events. Understanding these differences will help you adapt and find your niche in your new home.
Tacoma vs. Tampa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Tacoma, WA to Tampa, FL offers a distinct change in scenery, climate, and lifestyle. Part of adjusting will involve understanding how daily commutes and traffic compare between the two cities. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tacoma & Tampa is designed to give you a clearer picture of what to expect as you navigate your new home.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Difficult |
The average commute time is slightly longer in Tacoma than in Tampa, indicating a bit more time on the road or in transit. Tacoma's public transit scores higher than Tampa's, suggesting a more accessible and potentially user-friendly transit system, which explains why getting by without a car might be somewhat easier in Tacoma. Despite this, you'll still find having a car to be significantly more convenient in both cities. Tampa experiences a higher level of traffic congestion, likely reflecting its dense urban layout and popularity as a tourist destination, emphasizing the importance of planning your travel times accordingly.
Additional Resources
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