$493,035Average Value$348Average Price per Sq Ft14Homes For Sale
Life and work in the center of 'Grit City'
Tacoma, a Pierce County city with views of Mount Rainier, is set on Commencement Bay, part of Puget Sound. The area of Central Tacoma, several miles inland, has plenty of residential streets, retail areas, parks and highway access. Often called "Grit City" and sometimes "the City of Destiny," Tacoma is known for its working-class roots. When it was the terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad, Tacoma garnered a reputation for industries like shipbuilding, lumber production and the import/export of products like coal and automobiles. "I'm a big fan of the blue-collar mentality of working hard, and I think Tacoma exemplifies that really well," says Chris Murphy, a broker with Compass who owns and operates the website washingtonwaterfronts.com.
At Commencement Bay's southeastern end is the Port of Tacoma, a touchstone of the area's history, economy and employment. Healthcare jobs are significant to the area, and Central Tacoma is home to the MultiCare Allenmore Hospital and Medical Center, which includes hundreds of primary and specialty care providers. Many area residents have positions at Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM), a military installation about 16 miles southwest of Central Tacoma.
6th Avenue for small businesses, Tacoma Mall
Sixth Avenue is a walkable, eclectic strip with independent and locally owned restaurants and shops. Sixth Avenue Business District is rapidly growing; it's within walking distance of Puget Sound University and draws customers throughout Tacoma and beyond. Grit City Books, owned by a local three-person LGBTQIA+ team, curates its stock to include everything from bestsellers to titles by underrepresented authors. Events at the shop include Fireside Chat writer events and drag story times.
Sixth Avenue eateries include Shakabrah, for breakfast all day, and Asado, an Argentine steakhouse. The Field Bar & Bottle Shop has seasonal brunch and dinner menus, a wine club and the Dope Dinner Series. Sharing a block are Stargazer Comics, Elegant Octopus Games and Nerd Alley, a custom 3D printer. There's a Fred Meyer grocery store on South 19th Street, and the Tacoma Central shopping center is to the south, with a selection of casual dining and national brands like Walmart and Target. From there, it's a couple of miles farther to the Tacoma Mall, which has stores such as Nordstrom and Apple, a food court and restaurants like the Cheesecake Factory. A redevelopment project called The Village, slated to open in the fall of 2025, will bring new restaurants, retail and community spaces to the mall.
Central Tacoma has local Argentine steakhouse, Asado.
Valhalla Coffee is the best coffee in Central Tacoma.
O'Malleys Pub offers an authentic Irish pub experience with great food and entertainment.
Local enjoying a morning pick me up from favorite spot Valhalla Coffee Co.
1/4
Tacoma Nature Center, parks like DeLong and Franklin
Central Tacoma's most expansive site for outdoor recreation is the Tacoma Nature Center. "We're an educational facility that helps you to learn more about Washington's wetlands," says Michele Cardinaux, facility supervisor. Open daily, the 70-acre preserve has a large lake, walking trails and a play area called Discovery Pond.
The nature center has wildlife displays, including live turtles. "These are some of the creatures you might find in a wetland of Washington," Cardinaux says. "Historically, most were found here, but not anymore. For example, we don't see porcupines or beavers." Cardinaux says the center works with many local schools. "Every first grader in Tacoma schools comes here for a field trip program through a project that the district initiated." Other programs include scavenger hunts, family nature yoga, nature walks and a native plant sale. Also in Central Tacoma is DeLong Park, which has a wetland setting and a trail popular among bird watchers. Senator Rosa Franklin Park has a playground, fields and a community garden.
Tacoma Nature Park with charm you with its many features in Central Tacoma.
Tacoma Nature Park give you a country escape right in the heart of Central Tacoma.
Central Tacoma's golf course will make you think your out in some country course.
Out for a run in Central Tacoma Park area.
Two pedestrians walk a baby through Franklin Park.
1/5
Craftsmans, condos and comparative affordability
Murphy describes Tacoma neighborhoods as pedestrian and pet friendly. "The walkability is fantastic. There are a lot of grid blocks, there are sidewalks everywhere and crosswalks." Central Tacoma has houses dating back to the early 20th century. "One of the cool things about Tacoma as a whole is it's got really beautiful early-1900s to 1930s Craftsman homes," Murphy says. "Highly coveted properties that fit into that category are in North Tacoma, but those home styles are also in Central and South Tacoma." Later builds include Cape Cods, contemporary and ranch-style homes. There are also condos, including those with views of the Allenmore Golf Course.
Home prices are in the $300,000s to $800,000s, with condos maxing out in the $500,000s. "It's one of the areas where we're seeing the greatest amount of price appreciation, and that's largely because it was some of the more affordable real estate in Tacoma and the greater Puget Sound," Murphy says. "In general, King County is two times more expensive. The median selling price there is probably a million dollars, and down here, it's probably $500,000 to $550,000."
New homes speckle the Central Tacoma neighborhood.
Central Tacoma has pockets of new construction homes.
Central Tacoma has many variations of craftsman homes.
You find craftsman and cape cod homes mixed together in Central Tacoma.
1/4
Traveling with Pierce Transit and Sound Transit
State Route 16 and Interstate 5 are both in proximity to Central Tacoma. Pierce Transit bus routes have stops along 19th Street and Sixth and South Union avenues. Sound Transit's Link light rail T Line connects the city's stations, such as Tacoma Dome, Downtown Tacoma and Hilltop. A light rail extension from Seattle is a future possibility. "I think the light rail will inevitably come through; the rumor is 2040," Murphy says. Commuter rail to Seattle is already available with the S Line — Sounder South. There is also an Amtrak service via the Tacoma Dome Station.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Sea-Tac, is roughly 23 miles away. The Port of Seattle has a multiyear study to track noise from the airport. "There can be airplane noise from JBLM. That's a really massive military installation," Murphy says. Large-scale operations like artillery training are announced in advance, and comments can be directed to the base's public affairs hotline.
Central Tacoma's commercial area is conveniently located in a walking neighborhood.
Waiting for the bus in the Central Tacoma area.
Pedestrian waiting on the bus in Central Tacoma.
1/3
Franklin Elementary, Hilltop Heritage Middle
Public schools include Franklin Elementary School and Hilltop Heritage Middle School, both earning C grades from Niche. Hilltop, formerly Jason Lee Middle School, offers monthly field trips, summer academic opportunities and free tutoring through the Peace Community Center Hilltop Scholars Program. Foss High School receives a C-plus. From late June through August, Tacoma Public Schools hosts Summer Teen Late Nights, a free, district-wide program that includes a meal and activities, such as a trip to a Rainiers game. Within a few miles of Central Tacoma are the University of Puget Sound, Tacoma Community College and the University of Washington Tacoma.
Hilltop Heritage Middle School front entrance.
Entrance to Foss High School on a cool December morning.
1/2
Cheney Stadium baseball, golf and the Tacoma Dome
Cheney Stadium, home to the Tacoma Rainiers, the Triple-A Minor League Baseball (MiLB) affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, is in Central Tacoma, close to Foss High School. Nicknamed "R House," the stadium hosts various calendar game events like Craft Brew Night, La Familia de Tacoma and Hot Dogs & Hot Rods, complete with a car show.
Allenmore Golf & Event Center on Cedar Street is a public course with daily green fees, instruction and clubs. Allenmore offers dining at the Urban Elk Restaurant & Bar, part of the Elks Lodge community, with members provided special golf rates. Downtown, the Tacoma Dome is a distinctive indoor arena, bringing audiences of up to 21,000 people for basketball tournaments, concerts, festivals, trade shows and community events.
Central Tacoma's Cheney Stadium is anything but minor league.
Foss high school shares a space with the Tacoma Rainiers baseball team.
Cheney Stadium is home to the Tacoma Rainiers baseball team in Central Tacoma.
1/3
Art on the Ave, Washington State Fair and history
The Sixth Avenue Business District's Art on the Ave is a July event with over 175 art, food and product vendors, beer gardens, performance stages and children's activity areas. The Washington State Fair is held in August and September in Pullayup, about a dozen miles away. Well-known acts to have performed at the fair include Alabama, the Steve Miller Band, Matchbox Twenty and Kidz Bop.
The fair site has historical importance, as it was used as a temporary internment camp for over 7,500 Japanese Americans forcibly removed from their homes during World War II. The Tacoma Japanese American Day of Remembrance is an educational and commemorative event held in May at the Washington State History Museum in downtown Tacoma.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tawnia Coulter,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Jefferson Park
Franklin Park
Irving Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Picnic Area
Oakland/Madrona Park
Delong Park
Peck Athletic Complex
Discovery Pond Play Area
Snake Lake Trail
Heidelberg-Davis Skatepark
Transit
Airport
Seattle-Tacoma International
38 min drive
Bus
12th St S & Union Ave
Bus
12th St S & Stevens St
Bus
12th St S & Tyler St
Bus
Union Ave S & Tacoma Ctrl Plaza
Bus
19th St S & Trafton St
Bus
State St & S 24th St
Bus
19th St S & Proctor St
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Central Tacoma
US
Homicide
3
4
Sexual Assault
3
4
Assault with Weapon
3
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Central Tacoma, Tacoma sell after 26 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Central Tacoma, Tacoma over the last 12 months is $474,965, up 2% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
So much more to this home than meets the eye. What looks to be your typical, classic, craftsman bungalow, has, upon closer inspection, had every single major system updated bar none. Exterior paint, windows, central heating AND cooling, carpet, water heater, plumbing, sewer line, roof, wiring . . . it's a lot, all it needs is your own cosmetic touches. You'll find an open living/dining/kitchen
Beautiful and encompassing tale of Tacoma. This 1900s model craftsman home has more storytelling and memories to give for the willing new owner. This two-story, functionally designed home boasts wonderful spacious rooms that flow. Old wood panels, high trim, emulate the craftsmanship homes once showcased. Fully fenced-in yard. Parking just off the backyard's alley is designated for this
Discover this delightful rambler nestled in a quiet neighborhood! Thoughtfully updated throughout, this vintage 1937 home features charming custom shelves, stylish tile, wood flooring, & modern accent walls, creating an inviting feel. The layout is smart & functional, with two bedrooms flanking a spacious full bath. Primary bedroom offers generous space. Second bedroom has a built-in desk.
Aloha and welcome to your charming retreat in the heart of Tacoma. Nestled on a peaceful, tree-lined corner lot, this delightful home effortlessly blends comfort and character. Gleaming hardwood floors lead you through an oversized living room filled with natural light from large picture windows, a cozy fireplace, and a formal dining space perfect for gathering. A covered patio invites year-round
Investor special! This one's a real piece of work (literally). But with URX zoning, it's the kind of mess that dreams are made of. Build up to 45 ft high with no front, back, or side setbacks. Zoning requires at least 4 units when building new, but why stop there? Tear it down and go full multifamily mode, or revive the gutted 2 bed/1 bath and stack a few more units out back. One block from 6th
Immaculate Turn-Key Craftsman, in Fantastic Sought-After Neighborhood! Timeless character meets Modern comfort w/ this Thoroughly Remodeled Home, offering perfect blend of classic architectural detail & contemporary upgrades. Professionally Painted Inside & Out w/ Light-filled living areas ideal for both relaxing & entertaining. Features Original woodwork & BRAND NEW: LVP flooring, Kitchen w/
1500 Orchard home to beautiful modern Tacoma apartments. Situated in the greenery Washington is known for. Spacious, attractive, with easy access to Highway 16 and area conveniences. We are pet-friendly, within walking distance to Cheney Stadium, and has all the amenities you will enjoy.
One of the most thoughtfully designed apartment communities is also the most conveniently located one in Tacoma. - A 5 minute walk to some of the best and most diverse restaurants and bars in the city. Including Asado, La Ca Bar, The Table, and many, many, more. - A 5 minute drive to all the major supermarkets in the city. From The Metropolitan Market, to the Tacoma Boys, to the Walmart
Visit Community Terrace. This community is located at 5401 S 12th St in Tacoma. From pricing to features, the leasing staff will assist you in finding the best floor plan for your lifestyle. At Community Terrace you're home.
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tawnia Coulter,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
13,023
Median Age
40
Population Density
8 ppl/acre
Population under 18
20.5%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
17.4%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$81,931
Above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$95,416
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
93.5%
On par with the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
30.2%
Advanced Degrees
12.9%
% Population in Labor Force
69.1%
On par with the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
40''
Average Winter Low Temperature
37°F
Average Summer High Temperature
77°F
Annual Snowfall
2''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
41/ 100
Somewhat Walkable
Walk Score®
59/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
