Best Honolulu to Tacoma Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Honolulu to Tacoma and need first-hand information you can trust to make this move from Hawaii to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 21 Honolulu to Tacoma moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is John Volken Academy Movers), how much the move costs (depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Honolulu compared to Tacoma. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Honolulu to Tacoma Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1John Volken Academy Movers9.349.65Authorized For HHG
2First Due Movers9.269.06Authorized For Property, HHG
3Ewa Moving Co.8.298.22Authorized For HHG
4Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC7.967.61Authorized For HHG
5Island Movers5.925.95Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428
Hawaii iconArrow iconWashington icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to Honolulu guide.

Compare the 5 Best Honolulu to Tacoma Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,485+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
1
First Due Movers Logo

First Due Movers

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,462+ data points

8126 304th Ave SE

Preston, WA, 98050

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Ewa Moving Co. Logo

Ewa Moving Co.

Very Good8.29/10
based on 181+ data points

91-593 Pohakupuna Rd

Ewa Beach, HI, 96706

About Ewa Moving Co.

Ewa Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company based in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The company provides residential and commercial...

Services

  • Residential moving services in Oahu
  • Local moving services in Oahu
  • Hourly rate moving services in Oahu

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3786678 / 1601075

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved50 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC Logo

Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC

Good7.96/10
based on 67+ data points

Honolulu, HI, 96825

About Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC

Mint Moving & Cleaning Solutions LLC is a locally owned and operated business based in Honolulu, HI, offering services throughout all...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/25/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3396143 / 1265966

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2019)
View Full Review
4
Island Movers Logo

Island Movers

5.92/10
based on 1,072+ data points

4397 Lawehana St

Honolulu, HI, 96818

About Island Movers

Multi-awarded Island Movers, Inc. has two locations in Hawaii, including one in Honolulu. The family-owned and operated business has over 60...

Services

  • Personal Moves
  • Business Moves
  • Cheap Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

105271 / FF-60965 135534

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans110
Registered Drivers71
Total Annual Miles Moved765,803 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven β€” movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Honolulu vs. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison

Embarking on a move can sometimes feel like deciphering a map to an unknown treasure. To ease this transition, we've paired Honolulu, HI & Tacoma, WA neighborhoods in a comparison. This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. Discover which local spots in Tacoma mirror those you've grown to love in Honolulu.

HonoluluTacomaHow They're Similar
WaikikiStadium DistrictVivid nightlife, beach proximity
ManoaProctor DistrictHistoric homes, academic vibe
Kakaako6th AvenueUrban arts, trendy eateries
Hawaii KaiPoint RustonWaterfront living, upscale amenities
KapoleiSouth TacomaGrowing community, family-friendly
Ala MoanaDowntown TacomaShopping, dining, and entertainment
Eastern HonoluluNorth EndQuiet, residential with beach access
Kalihi-PalamaLincoln DistrictDiverse community, historic charm
Waialae-KahalaOld TownLavish homes, waterfront allure
Mililani MaukaFircrestSuburban feel, parks and recreation

For those considering a move from Honolulu's vibrant Waikiki to Tacoma, the Stadium District captures a similar essence with its vivid nightlife and beach-adjacent locale. In Tacoma, the Proctor District resonates with the historic and academic atmosphere reminiscent of Manoa, boasting charming homes and proximity to the University of Puget Sound. Transitioning from Kakaako's contemporary art scene and foodie paradise, you'll find a kindred spirit on 6th Avenue in Tacoma, which is brimming with urban art and an array of trendy eateries. For waterfront enthusiasts, moving from Hawaii Kai to Tacoma's Point Ruston offers luxurious waterfront living with upscale amenities and picturesque views, solidifying it as an ideal locale for ocean lovers seeking a similar setting in their new city.

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Things to Do in Tacoma

  • Explore Point Defiance Park
  • Visit Museum of Glass
  • Stroll along Ruston Way Waterfront
  • Shop at Proctor District
  • Catch a movie at The Grand Cinema
  • Attend Tacoma Art Walk

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma

Moving is a significant life decision, and when considering a relocation from Honolulu, HI, to Tacoma, WA, it's essential to weigh the advantages against the drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation from Honolulu, HI to Tacoma, WA, highlighting aspects that could affect your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • High living cost
  • Island isolation
  • Limited job market
  • Heavy traffic
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • More affordable life
  • Easier mainland travel
  • Diverse employment ops
  • Less congested roads
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Colder weather
  • No natural beaches
  • More urban setting
  • Less diverse cuisine
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • Warm climate
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Lush landscapes
  • Cultural diversity

Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma introduces you to a new landscape of opportunities and challenges. While you might miss the warm climate and unique island life of Honolulu, including its world-renowned beaches like Waikiki, Tacoma welcomes you with a vibrant urban setting characterized by beautiful parks such as Point Defiance and cultural hotspots like the Museum of Glass. The transition offers a chance to explore places like Ruston Way Waterfront for picturesque views and dining or the historic Proctor District for shopping and entertainment. Although Tacoma may lack Honolulu's extensive variety of Asian and Polynesian cuisines, it compensates with a growing food scene featuring establishments like En Rama and local coffee shops such as Bluebeard Coffee Roasters, ensuring you won't be short on new flavors and experiences. This move is not just a change of scenery but an opportunity to embrace a different pace of life while discovering new communities and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Honolulu vs. Tacoma Food Guide

Food is a fundamental aspect of local culture and the living experience in any area. Moving from one place to another brings changes, not least in the culinary scene. To help you understand what awaits your palate, we're providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Honolulu & Tacoma . This way, you can get a taste of your new home before even arriving.

Honolulu
Tacoma
Most iconic local food item
Poke
Seafood chowder
Most popular meat dish
Loco Moco
Prime Rib
Most popular street food item
Spam Musubi
Hot Dogs
Most popular vegan food
Acai bowl
Vegetable Bibimbap
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Helena's Hawaiian Food
  • Alan Wong's
  • Roy's Hawaii
  • En Rione
  • MSM Deli
  • The Table
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
πŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺ
πŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺ
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Honolulu to Tacoma, you'll find a shift not only in scenery but also in culinary delights. Honolulu is celebrated for its unique fusion of Asian and Polynesian cuisines, with dishes like Poke and Loco Moco being local favorites. You can enjoy these specialties in neighborhoods like Waikiki and Kaimuki. In contrast, Tacoma offers a different vibe with a love for hearty meals like Seafood Chowder and Prime Rib, reflecting its cooler climate and coastal influence. The Proctor and Stadium districts in Tacoma are burgeoning foodie hubs where new restaurants like Thekoi offer a modern take on global cuisines, giving Tacoma an eclectic taste that's gradually cementing its status as a culinary destination.

Honolulu vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison

Making a new city feel like home often starts with finding your go-to spots for a memorable meal. Understanding the importance of cuisine in this transition, we've compared top restaurants in Honolulu to their closest matches in Tacoma , to assist you in discovering your new favorite eateries. This guide leverages your current tastes in Honolulu to explore similar culinary delights in Tacoma.

HonoluluTacomaWhat You'll Love
Alan Wong'sIndochine Asian Dining LoungeElegant setting with innovative dishes.
Merriman'sAsadoUnique meat dishes with a local twist.
MW RestaurantBiteContemporary dining with a creative menu.
The Pig and The LadyPho KingAuthentic Vietnamese with a modern flair.
Helena's Hawaiian FoodHawaiian KitchenTraditional Hawaiian dishes with a family feel.
Matsumoto Shave IceBliss Small Batch CreameryUnique ice creams, closest in spirit to shave ice.
SeniaPacific GrillInventive plates in an upscale environment.
Rainbow Drive-InShake Shake ShakeRetro diner vibes with an excellent burger lineup.
Roy's WaikikiBoathouse 19Waterfront dining with a focus on seafood and steaks.
Leonard's BakeryCorina BakeryCozy bakery known for its pies, pastries, and coffee.

For those who treasure the innovative Pacific Rim cuisine of Alan Wong's in Honolulu, Indochine Asian Dining Lounge in Tacoma offers a delightful alternative with its elegant setting and innovative dishes inspired by regions from Thailand to Vietnam. Meanwhile, fans of the casual yet unforgettable experience at The Pig and The Lady will find happiness in Tacoma's Pho King, which presents authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a modern flair, ensuring a seamless transition for your palate. And for those who simply cannot start their weekend without a visit to Leonard's Bakery for their famous malasadas, Corina Bakery provides a cozy alternative in Tacoma, with its wide selection of pies, pastries, and specialty coffee that rivals the satisfaction found at Leonard's, ensuring you're never too far away from a taste of home.

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Honolulu vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating. It's essential to understand how Honolulu, HI and Tacoma, WA compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle. This comparison will guide you in making an informed decision tailored to your needs and preferences.

Honolulu
Tacoma
Typical Architecture Style
Modern, Plantation
Craftsman, Mid-Century
Walkability
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πŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘Ÿ
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
πŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈ
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Ocean view, Open floor plan
Mountain view, Large backyard

When considering a move from Honolulu to Tacoma, the contrast in real estate costs is significant. With median home prices in Tacoma being nearly half of those in Honolulu, you might find more value for your money. The architecture style differs greatly as well, from Honolulu's modern and plantation-style homes to Tacoma's charming Craftsman and mid-century buildings. While both cities offer a vibrant urban lifestyle, Honolulu edges out with its ocean views and higher walkability score, suggesting a more compact city structure compared to Tacoma's appeal for spacious backyards and mountain views. These distinctions underline the varied experiences these cities offer, shaping a unique living environment that caters to different tastes and needs.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA

1. Proctor District : You'll love the welcoming atmosphere here, with its walkable streets and access to parks that make it perfect for leisurely strolls with your pet.

2. North End : This area offers an abundance of green spaces and dog-friendly eateries, ensuring that both you and your furry friends can enjoy the neighborhood's lively yet laid-back vibe.

3. Old Town : Known for its picturesque waterfront views and pet-friendly community events, you can enjoy exploring this charming neighborhood with your pets by your side.

Honolulu vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Honolulu, HI to Tacoma, WA, it's critical to understand how the weather will shift in your new home. This comparison aims to highlight the weather dynamics between Honolulu and Tacoma , ensuring you're well-prepared for the change.

Honolulu
Tacoma
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦
Avg. UV Index
πŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈ
πŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈ
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Tsunamis
Earthquakes, Volcanoes
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (Β°F)

88Β°F / 75Β°F
77Β°F / 53Β°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (Β°F)

80Β°F / 65Β°F
47Β°F / 37Β°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

17 in
39 in
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
6.8


Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma, expect to trade abundant sunshine and warm temperatures for cooler, cloudier days with more pronounced seasons. While Honolulu offers a fairly consistent climate with minor fluctuations between summer and winter, Tacoma’s weather varies significantly across seasons, including a notable winter chill that might require a wardrobe update. Additionally, the increase in annual rainfall and the experience of occasional light snowfall in Tacoma present a distinct contrast to Honolulu's predominantly dry conditions. Adapting to these changes will be key to enjoying the beautiful, diverse landscape and outdoor opportunities awaiting in Tacoma.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Honolulu to Tacoma

When planning your move from Honolulu, HI to Tacoma, WA, it's crucial to grasp how the shift will affect your finances. This comparison aims to illustrate the financial adjustments you'll face, focusing on the cost of living, taxes , and income prospects in both cities . Understanding these differences will help you better prepare for your relocation.

Honolulu
Tacoma
Avg. Household Income
$73,434
$77,141
Cost of Living Index
165.7
109.5
State Income Tax
8.25
0
Avg. Property Tax
0.28
1.02
Avg. Sales Tax
4.5
10.1
Top 3 Industries
Tourism, Defense, Agriculture
Retail, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Affluence
Moderately affluent
Moderately affluent
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
High
Moderate

The cost of living in Honolulu is significantly higher than in Tacoma, most notably reflected in its living index. This financial pressure is cushioned by the substantially higher average household income in Honolulu. However, Tacoma presents an attractive proposition with no state income tax, whereas Honolulu residents face a considerable tax rate. While property taxes are higher in Tacoma, the lower cost of living and absence of state income tax could balance your financial equation. The dominant industries vary between the two, suggesting a potential shift in employment opportunities depending on your profession. Understanding these nuances is key to a smooth financial transition.

Honolulu vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Honolulu, HI to Tacoma, WA, it's useful to grasp a quick overview of the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison will focus on providing a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Honolulu & Tacoma , aiming to give you a better understanding of the local culture in both cities.

Honolulu
Tacoma
Political Make-up
Democratic
Democratic
Local Politics
Liberal-leaning, with issues such as environmental conservation taking precedence
Progressive, with active discussions on social justice and community development
Religion
Multicultural and diverse, with Christianity, Buddhism, and Shinto being prominent
Mainly Christian, with a significant presence of other faiths reflecting a diverse population

In both Honolulu and Tacoma, the political makeup heavily leans Democratic, a reflection of their coastal city statuses that commonly prioritize liberal values. However, the local political landscapes reveal distinctive focal points; in Honolulu, environmental conservation is often at the forefront, a testament to the island's pristine natural beauty and the communal effort to preserve it. Tacoma, on the other hand, tends to gravitate towards social justice and community development, highlighting the city's progressive approach to fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. Religious diversity is another common thread, though the specific mix and presence of religions differ, with Honolulu showcasing a unique blend that includes Buddhism and Shinto due to its considerable Asian influence. Tacoma's religious scene is predominantly Christian but is similarly enriched by a tapestry of other faiths, representing its multicultural inhabitants.

Honolulu vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Honolulu, HI to Tacoma, WA requires an understanding of how your daily commute and traffic will change. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Honolulu & Tacoma will help you prepare for your new routines and daily travels in Tacoma.

Honolulu
Tacoma
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
27
26
Traffic Congestion
8 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Difficult
Very difficult

In both cities, the average commute time is fairly similar, though Honolulu edges out just a bit higher in traffic congestion due to its densely populated nature and limited routes for commuting. Public transit in Honolulu, facilitated by services like TheBus, provides more comprehensive coverage compared to Tacoma, where public transit options are spread thinner and more focused around the downtown area. In Tacoma, being without a car is challenging due to the city's spread-out nature and the gap in public transportation availability, making it essential for most residents to have their own vehicle for daily commuting and errands.

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