Tacoma, Washington | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros

Welcome to Tacoma, WA!

Nestled on the banks of Puget Sound with the majestic Mount Rainier as its backdrop, Tacoma offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Known for its rich arts scene, historic architecture, and waterfront attractions, Tacoma is a city that invites exploration and adventure.​

While we did not take an assignment in Tacoma, we DID visit while on contract in Puyallup and there are lots of fun things to do here.

💰 Cost of Living

Tacoma's cost of living is approximately 28% higher than the national average, with housing being a significant factor. Utilities, however, are about 9% lower than the national average. It's advisable to budget accordingly, especially for housing expenses. ​PayscaleRentCafe

• Median Home Price: $801,335​Airbnb+14Payscale+14RentCafe+14

• Median Rent: $2,436/month​Tacoma-Pierce County, WA+34Payscale+34firwoodrvmobilehomepark.com+34

• Energy Bill: $182.86/month​Majestic RV Park+8Payscale+8US Climate Data+8

  
  

🌦️ Weather (Month by Month)

Tacoma experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Here's a monthly breakdown:​

Month	Avg High	Avg Low	Notes
January	46°F	37°F	Cool and damp, occasional frost ❄️
February	50°F	37°F	Gradually warming, still rainy 🌧️
March	54°F	40°F	Spring blooms begin 🌸
April	59°F	43°F	Pleasant with occasional showers 🌦️
May	65°F	48°F	Warmer days, ideal for outdoor activities ☀️
June	70°F	53°F	Start of the dry season 🌞
July	76°F	56°F	Warm and sunny, perfect for beach outings 🏖️
August	77°F	56°F	Warmest month, minimal rainfall 🌄
September	71°F	52°F	Mild and pleasant, fall approaching 🍂
October	60°F	46°F	Cooler with increased rainfall 🌧️
November	52°F	41°F	Wettest month, cozy indoors weather ☕
December	46°F	37°F	Cold and damp, holiday lights abound 🎄

For more detailed climate information, visit Weather Spark's Tacoma Overview.​Weather Spark+1My Perfect Weather+1

🛋️ Furnished Housing Options

For comfortable short-term stays, consider the following furnished housing options:

1. HouseStay Furnished Rentals in Tacoma 🏠Offers a variety of fully furnished homes and apartments suitable for extended stays.

2. Zillow Furnished Apartments in TacomaListings of furnished apartments available for short-term rentals.

3. Airbnb Monthly Rentals in TacomaFully furnished homes and apartments available for monthly stays.

4. Furnished Finder Rentals in TacomaSpecialized in furnished housing for travel professionals.

   
   

🏨 Extended Stay Hotels

For those preferring hotel amenities with the comfort of home:

1. Extended Stay America – Tacoma – SouthOffers spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens and complimentary Wi-Fi.

2. WoodSpring Suites Tacoma – LakewoodFeatures apartment-style suites with in-room kitchens and on-site laundry facilities.

3. Marriott Extended Stay Hotels in TacomaIncludes options like TownePlace Suites and Residence Inn, offering extended stay accommodations with full kitchens.

4. Choice Hotels Extended Stay Options in TacomaVarious extended stay hotels with amenities tailored for longer visits.

   
   

🚐 RV Park Options

For those traveling with an RV, here are some top-rated parks:

1. Cedars RV CourtLocated in Tacoma, offering full hook-up sites and close proximity to local attractions.

2. Firwood RV & Mobile Home ParkProvides long-term stay options with amenities and easy access to the city.

3. Majestic Mobile Manor RV ParkSituated in nearby Puyallup, offering full hook-up sites and a community atmosphere.

4. Campgrounds and RV Parks in Tacoma and Pierce CountyA comprehensive list of RV parks and campgrounds in the Tacoma area.

5. Good Sam Club RV Parks in TacomaA directory of RV parks with user reviews and ratings.

🎡 Fun Things to Do in Tacoma, WA

• 🎨 Museum of GlassHome to a live glassblowing studio and stunning contemporary glass art, including work by Dale Chihuly.

• 🌺 Point Defiance Park & ZooA 760-acre urban park featuring gardens, hiking trails, a waterfront, and a beautiful zoo/aquarium combo.

• 🚶 Tacoma Waterfront & Ruston WayScenic paved paths perfect for biking, walking, or watching a Puget Sound sunset 🌅

• 🚢 Washington State History MuseumInteractive exhibits covering Washington's past — from Native heritage to modern innovation.

• 🎭 Tacoma Art MuseumRegional and Western American art, with a focus on Northwest artists.

• 🛍️ Historic Proctor District & 6th AveCool shops, cafes, bookstores, and local food spots in a walkable area.

  
  

🚗 Nearby Weekend Trips

• 🌄 Mount Rainier National Park (1.5 hrs):Towering glaciers, alpine meadows, and hiking galore. Breathtaking year-round.

• 🌊 Seattle, WA (45–60 min):Iconic attractions like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and ferry rides.

• 🪵 Olympic National Park (2 hrs):Mountains, beaches, and rainforest vibes — all in one park.

• 🍷 Woodinville Wine Country (1.5 hrs):Sip award-winning Washington wines in a cozy countryside setting.

• 🎢 Wild Waves Theme Park (30 min):A fun day trip with water rides and roller coasters — great for families.

  
  

🧭 Summary

Tacoma, WA offers a perfect blend of urban culture and outdoor adventure, making it an amazing home base for travel nurses in the Pacific Northwest.

✅ Access to high-quality healthcare facilities

✅ Beautiful views of Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound

✅ Tons of nature trails, museums, restaurants, and shops

✅ Welcoming neighborhoods and diverse communities

✅ Nearby trips to beaches, mountains, and Seattle!

Whether you’re an adventurer, foodie, art lover, or simply want to enjoy stunning views on your days off, Tacoma has something for you. It’s a city where you can breathe deep, explore often, and feel truly welcome 🌲💙

Disclosure: The information provided in this guide is what I use to send my travelers and is obtained through ChatGPT, utilizing prompts I frequently use as a travel nurse recruiter. The content is designed to help travelers make informed decisions about potential destinations.