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National study of renter’s satisfaction with their cities and states
Apartment List has released Tacoma’s results from the third annual Apartment List Renter Satisfaction Survey. This survey, which drew on responses from over 45,000 renters nationwide, provides insight on what states and cities must do to meet the needs of the country’s 111 million renters.
"Tacoma renters expressed general satisfaction with the city overall," according to Apartment List. "They gave most categories average scores."
Key Findings in Tacoma include the following:
For more information on the survey methodology and findings or to speak to one of our researchers, please contact our team at rentonomics@apartmentlist.com.
*Based on base prices that don’t include fees
South End offers affordable living with historic character in southern Tacoma. Rental homes typically feature more yard space and square footage than similarly priced options in North End or downtown areas. The neighborhood provides good access to both Highway 16 connections and Lincoln District shopping and dining, creating practical convenience for households seeking value within Tacoma city limits.
Industrial heritage transforms in New Tacoma, where historic warehouses and commercial buildings find new purpose as urban lofts and creative spaces near the port. Residents enjoy the developing waterfront with its museums, restaurants, and walking paths alongside the working port's continued operations. Though ongoing redevelopment means some services remain under development, pioneers appreciate participating in the neighborhood's evolution from industrial center to urban community. Many buildings feature impressive adaptive reuse where loading docks become patios and freight elevators serve residential floors, creating distinctive living spaces connecting to Tacoma's commercial history while accommodating contemporary needs.
Working-class authenticity thrives in South Tacoma, where the historic Lincoln District features family-owned pho restaurants and international markets reflecting the area's diverse community. Affordable bungalows with character details appeal to first-time renters, though street quality varies block by block. The STAR Center provides recreation facilities, while the neighborhood's central location offers quick access to both downtown Tacoma and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, making it popular with military families seeking off-base housing.