Cost of Living: Tampa, FL vs Tacoma, WA (2026)

Tampa

Florida
113
VS

Tacoma

Washington
126

Tampa is 10% cheaper than Tacoma.

$1,567/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,597/mo ↑ 2%
$71,302/yr ↓ 15%
Median Income
$83,857/yr ↑ 18%
$375,300 ↓ 17%
Home Value
$454,600 ↑ 21%
$1,553/mo ↓ 11%
Owner Costs
$1,747/mo ↑ 12%
393,389
Population
220,482

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
0.86%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

26.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tampa, FL and Tacoma, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 113 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $12,555/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tampa is $375,300 compared to $454,600 in Tacoma.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tampa vs Tacoma — common questions

Is Tampa or Tacoma cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tampa is cheaper to live in with an index of 113 compared to 126 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Tampa and Tacoma?
Median rent in Tampa is $1,567/month and in Tacoma it's $1,597/month — a difference of $30/month.
Which city has higher income, Tampa or Tacoma?
Median household income is $71,302 in Tampa and $83,857 in Tacoma. Median household income is $12,555/year higher in Tacoma.
How do taxes compare between Florida and Washington?
Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Tampa or Tacoma?
It depends on your priorities. Tampa has a cost index of 113 with median rent of $1,567/mo, while Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,597/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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