Tacoma, Washington

American Life Ventures Tacoma

Located at the foot of Mount Rainier and along the shores of Commencement Bay in Washington state, Tacoma is recognized as a livable and progressive international city. With a population of more than 200,000 residents, the city that incorporated in 1884 has grown from its historical roots as a home of sawmills and a bustling port that exported goods around the world to a center for international exports, the arts and healthy, affordable living.

Geography

Tacoma-Pierce County is Washington State's third largest city and located just 18 miles south of the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. It boasts a deep water port that is one of the largest container ports in North America.

Demographics

As of 2010, Tacoma's population is 199,826 people. Since 2000, its population has grown annually at 3.28 percent. The median home cost in Tacoma is $209,980. Home appreciation the last year has been -9.89 percent. Compared to the rest of the country, Tacoma's cost of living is 7.50% higher than the U.S. average.

Economy

Tacoma is an important center for agricultural and forest products. The first business established in Tacoma was a saw mill; Tacoma's economy is still heavily involved with timber. Regional enterprises produce more flower bulbs than the Netherlands, as well as crops, such as berries and rhubarb that require heavy seasonal employment. Tourism is also important to Tacoma's economy. Visitors are attracted to the waters of Commencement Bay and the state and national parks surrounding Tacoma.

Regional Center Map