Student Housing in Tacoma

Finding the right student housing Tacoma can shape how students experience both campus life and the city itself. Tacoma offers a coastal-urban mix with waterfront views, arts and culture, and a growing student population, making it a practical place to study and live. With a wide range of Tacoma student apartments, students can choose shared layouts, private studios, or full apartments depending on budget and routine. Choosing student accommodation Tacoma also gives students more independence and easier access to transit, groceries, and daily essentials. Amber simplifies the search by listing verified student apartments Tacoma with transparent pricing and student-friendly amenities.

Many options come furnished and include Wi-Fi, study areas, and flexible leases that support academic schedules. Students attending nearby universities often explore off-campus living for more flexibility while staying close to classes. For students thinking about safety while choosing housing, guides like the safest neighborhoods in Washington DC often remind renters how important neighborhood research is before signing a lease, a mindset many apply when selecting housing in Tacoma, too. With options ranging from a room for rent in Tacoma WA, to full apartments, amber helps students find housing that fits both their budget and student lifestyle.

Tacoma sits along Washington’s Puget Sound, blending waterfront scenery, arts and culture, and a strong student presence that makes the city appealing for academic life. The city is home to roughly 220,000 residents, with over 940,000 people in the Pierce County metro, giving it urban energy without Seattle’s scale. Historically, Tacoma grew as a railroad and port city in the late 1800s, earning the nickname “City of Destiny” for its role in westward expansion. Over time, it evolved into a hub for healthcare, education, logistics, and public services. Today, Tacoma posts an employment rate of around 60 to 62%, supporting part-time work and internships for students.

The city’s livability score typically ranks in the mid-60s out of 100, reflecting solid amenities, transit access, and outdoor recreation. Tacoma’s safety index sits around 55 to 60, with crime rates moderate compared to national averages, roughly 38 to 40 crimes per 1,000 residents annually, varying by neighborhood. Students choosing student housing Tacoma often focus on areas near campuses and transit for convenience. The city’s social calendar adds to student life, with events like the Tacoma Film Festival, Taste of Tacoma, Tacoma Pride Festival, and the Daffodil Festival bringing community energy throughout the year. This mix of history, culture, and opportunity makes Tacoma practical for student living.

When choosing student housing Tacoma, students look for comfort, commute convenience, and a setup that supports study routines. Many prefer off-campus Tacoma student apartments for more independence and flexible leases. Amber helps simplify the search by listing verified student accommodation Tacoma with clear pricing and student-friendly amenities.
1. Ellis Apartments Tacoma – From $1,160/month
Modern units with updated interiors, private bedroom options, and shared community spaces. The property offers convenient access to transit, groceries, and campus areas, making it a practical choice for students balancing academics and daily life.

Students comparing student apartments Tacoma often consider location and amenities before signing a lease. Whether choosing a shared unit or a room for rent in Tacoma WA, amber makes it easier to find housing that fits student budgets and routines.

Tacoma offers several neighborhoods that work well for students, each with different strengths in affordability, commute time, and access to essentials. If you’re comparing student housing Tacoma options before signing a lease, these areas help simplify daily routines thanks to short travel times to campuses and access to groceries, cafes, and study spots. With the right mix of convenience and community, choosing student accommodation Tacoma becomes easier.
1. Downtown Tacoma
Downtown is a top pick for students due to its walkability, cafes, transit hubs, and waterfront access. Essentials like gyms, pharmacies, and restaurants are nearby. Commutes to campus areas typically take 5 to 10 minutes by bus or bike.
2. North End Tacoma
Known for safer residential streets and historic charm, North End offers parks, coffee shops, and grocery stores. Students appreciate its calm environment and 10 to 15-minute commutes to nearby universities.
3. University Place
Popular among students attending local colleges, this area offers suburban comfort, retail centers, and reliable bus routes. Commutes average 10 to 20 minutes.
4. Hilltop
Hilltop has growing apartment options, transit access, and more affordable rents. Many students looking for Tacoma student apartments consider this area for value and convenience.
5. South Tacoma
A quieter residential zone with budget-friendly rentals and shopping centers. Commutes range from 15 to 25 minutes, appealing to students wanting lower rent and more space.

Understanding the cost of living in Tacoma helps students plan and manage budgets while studying in the city. Tacoma is generally more affordable than Seattle while still offering strong amenities, transit, and student-friendly neighborhoods. On average, monthly student expenses range between $1,600 and $2,300, excluding rent for student housing Tacoma. Careful budgeting allows students to balance academics and social life while living in student accommodation Tacoma.
1. Food & Groceries: $300–$450/month
2. Transportation: $70–$120/month
3. Utilities (including Internet): $120–$180/month
4. Clothing & Personal: $60–$100/month
5. Sports & Leisure: $100–$180/month