New job in Tacoma - good idea/bad idea? (Federal Way: apartment, rental) - Washington (WA) - City-Data Forum

daisies16 · 07-21-2009, 03:50 PM

I live in Reno, NV and have an interview next month for a job with the Tacoma Police Department. I've never been to Tacoma, so my trip up for the interview will be my first chance to look around. I'd love any advice as to whether Tacoma would be a good place to move to? I've been reading a lot of bad things about it, but also some good. I am a single female in my early 20's, looking for a safe place to live with sort of a small town feel. Right now I'm paying $900/mo for my apartment and with this new job would be able to afford the same amount or a little more. If I do take the job, would I be better off living in a nearby city? Like where? I'm fine with a short commute, but would prefer not to drive more than 30-40 minutes each way.

Thanks in advance!!

Jake840 · 07-21-2009, 06:07 PM

I haven't been to Reno but it is about the same size as Tacoma. I am sure you would enjoy Tacoma. From what I have seen older officers with families live mostly outside the city. A lot of younger single officers live in the city. As for rent you I guess you need to consider if you are taking a patrol car home or not. You can find houses in Tacoma for $900 but they might not be in the best areas. Not sure TPD's policy on parking cars in apartment/condo garages. You wouldn't have a problem finding an apartment (1bd) in a nice area for $900.

nwcountrygal · 07-21-2009, 06:22 PM

I would say Reno is smaller than Tacoma a totally differnt animal.Have family in Reno/Virgina City. Depending on what department you are looking at and where. Are you looking at ST or City? If you want DM me family is been in the Departments for area for a while..........

The major thing you need to look at is climate....are you OK with not much sun (although this spring and summer are incredible) usual is the grey winters, no sun in winter like your used to. Rent for nicer neighborhoods in Tacoma will be more likely in $1200 range.. You can find cheaper but .. I would at least plan on that price for out side Tacoma also.....I would look at NE Tacoma by Federal Way, or UP for an Apartment or you can go to Spanaway area but check it out first for cheaper rent. Good Luck!

yukiko11 · 07-21-2009, 10:53 PM

Get into a roomate situation first until you personally have an opportunity to explore the area and see what appeals to you. You can rent a room in the 350-450 range in a private home where you will be safe. Stay there for 6 months, save your money and move to a place you will be happy.

nfdsouza2001 · 07-22-2009, 12:00 AM

Tacoma is a good place to be. The housing is affordable and good deals are being offered. Will you working at the headquarters on Pine Street ? You may want to consider renting a room around the PLU or UPS campus. Orchard street is close and safe. Hope this helps.

daisies16 · 07-22-2009, 09:09 AM

Thanks for the help so far!

Jake840: I am a civilian, not an officer, so I'm not sure if that changes your advice at all..?

nfdsouza2001: Yes, the station on Pine St. I'd really prefer not to live with roommates/housemates, as I am accustomed to living alone.

Would I be able to get a better deal in a neighboring town? Can anyone suggest where?

nfdsouza2001 · 07-22-2009, 06:54 PM

Daisies 16 I saw a rental at University Place for about 795 at 4601 Grandview University Place, WA 98466. University place is about 15-25 minutes from your work. This area is safe and walkble to most businesses. Leave me some contact information on my website and will be glad to show you around.

anonymoose · 07-23-2009, 09:05 AM

If you take the Tacoma job I would strongly recommend living elsewhere and commuting, as Tacoma is one Washington's most dangerous cities. My cousin and his wife live in Orting, which is beautiful little town on the outskirts of greater Tacoma. It's much safer than Tacoma itself.

Rickers · 07-23-2009, 09:51 AM

I lived in Tacoma for about ten years. I think it was the most miserable ten years of my generally very happy life. When I tried living with roommates there I was ripped off. The last time I visited Three skinheads tried to rob us in Point Defiance park (in the so called good part of Tacoma) I had to pull my gun on them to get away. Tacoma sucks and I am really glad I didn't get stuck there for any longer than I was. The only good part of Tacoma in my opinion is Salmon Beach where I lived for most of the time I was in Tacoma where you can fish off of your front porch.
Picture below is a modern totem pole along the footpath leading down to the houses on Salmon Beach. There is also a nice full sized bronze sculpture of a mermaid sitting on a rock between two of the houses down on the beach. I wish I had a photo of it to post.

Luke9686 · 07-23-2009, 11:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by anonymoose

If you take the Tacoma job I would strongly recommend living elsewhere and commuting, as Tacoma is one Washington's most dangerous cities. My cousin and his wife live in Orting, which is beautiful little town on the outskirts of greater Tacoma. It's much safer than Tacoma itself.

To the OP, you will find lots of statements from people like the above. I live in Tacoma, in an area of $600K houses. Far from dangerous. We rent an apartment in the Proctor area for $750/month. I think the people who move here and have a bad experience probably lived in the not-so-nice areas. Tacoma has some really bad areas, and areas that are awesome (like where I live). Do some research. It's not a bad city at all. I can crab fish three minutes from my place, so I live in a beautiful neighborhood and can eat fresh Dungeness. What more can you want?