Located at the southern end of Puget Sound, Tacoma has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing cities in Washington in recent years. The relatively lower housing prices compared to Seattle and the Eastside are a major factor attracting new residents.

The population of Tacoma is projected to be around 231,700 by 2026, having increased by approximately 2,600 people, or about 1.1%, over the past year. The annual growth rate is about 0.84%, which is modest but steady, and compared to the 2020 Census population of 220,182, this represents a 5.25% increase. The recent mention of both Seattle and Tacoma as the fastest-growing cities in Washington is not unrelated to this trend.

In terms of industry structure, the largest sector is healthcare and social services, employing about 17,300 people, followed by retail and educational services. The Port of Tacoma remains a key pillar of the local economy, supporting logistics and manufacturing employment. However, between 2023 and 2024, the total number of employees is expected to slightly decrease from about 113,000 to 112,000, indicating some adjustments during this industrial transition period.

In terms of income, the median household income in Tacoma is estimated at about $85,884, which is somewhat below the Washington state average, but has shown a gradual upward trend in recent years. However, the poverty rate, which is in the low 12% range, is still not insignificant and should be considered in a balanced manner.

From an infrastructure perspective, the expansion of the Tacoma Link light rail line and downtown redevelopment projects are steadily underway. Investments in modernizing port facilities are also ongoing, suggesting that the job base centered around logistics may be maintained for the time being.

However, Tacoma is not completely insulated from the overall employment slowdown in Washington state. Manufacturing and logistics are sectors that respond sensitively to interest rates and trade conditions, so there is a cautious view that a nationwide economic adjustment could impact port cargo volumes and related employment.

Regarding long-term prospects, cautious optimism prevails among local economic experts. The relatively low cost of living compared to Seattle and the stability of port-based industries are seen as potential foundations for long-term growth, but this is contingent upon adequate housing supply and job creation that matches the pace of population influx.

For Korean households, Tacoma may be worth considering as an alternative residential area within the Seattle metropolitan area. The relatively low entry prices and stable employment structure based on port and logistics could be attractive in terms of long-term rental income. However, it seems advisable to carefully compare income levels and poverty rate indicators, as well as the variations in local business districts and school districts.