Overview: Nursing Jobs in Tacoma, WA
Tacoma, Washington, is a bustling port city that offers a compelling blend of professional opportunities and a high quality of life. Unlike bigger cities like Seattle, Tacoma offers a lower cost of living while still providing competitive nurse salaries and abundant job opportunities at top hospitals, specialty clinics, and care centers. And when it’s time to unwind, you can explore waterfront trails at Owen Beach, hike Mount Rainier, or lose yourself in the city’s rich arts scene.
Looking for full-time, part-time, contract, temporary, or per diem nursing jobs in Tacoma, WA? Let’s explore the nursing job market and the city’s vibrant scene beyond the hospital walls.
Quick Facts About Nursing Jobs in Tacoma, WA
- Is Washington a compact state? Yes, Washington is a part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) agreement. Learn more about the Nurse Practice Act in different states.
- What do nurses earn in Tacoma? Here’s a breakdown of the average salaries for various nursing roles:
- NP salary in Tacoma: $150,170
- RN salary in Tacoma: $115,170
- LPN salary in Tacoma: $78,460
- CNA salary in Tacoma: $48,320
- Where can I find information about nurse license requirements in Washington? The Washington Board of Nursing is your best resource for anything nursing-related in the state. When it’s time to renew your license, check our guide on nursing license renewal in Washington for all the details.
- Where can I search for nursing jobs in the Tacoma area? If you’re considering a move to Tacoma but aren’t sure where to live, take a look at nursing jobs in these nearby cities:
- Nursing jobs in Olympia, WA
- Nursing jobs in Lakewood, WA
- Nursing jobs in Kent, WA
- Nursing jobs in Federal Way, WA
- Nursing jobs in Bellevue, WA
What to Know When Pursuing Nursing Jobs in Tacoma
Tacoma, WA, is home to over 222,000 residents from diverse backgrounds: 59.4%of the population identifies as White, 14.3% identifies as multicultural, 13.1% identifies as Hispanic or Latino, 10.5% identifies as Black, 8.8% identifies as Asian, 1.6% identifies as American Indian or Alaska Native, and 0.9% identifies as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. Recognizing and respecting this diversity is crucial for delivering culturally competent care.
Tacoma is a youthful city, with a median age of 36.7, younger than the national median of 38.4. Additionally, the area welcomes 6 million visitors each year. Whether your passion is in pediatrics, geriatrics, or adult care, Tacoma’s demographics (13.8% aged 65 and over, 20.7% under 18, and 65.5% adults) enable you to shape your practice according to your strengths and interests.
You’ll have a multitude of career choices to explore, including:
- Nurse practitioner jobs in Tacoma, WA
- Nurse midwife jobs in Tacoma, WA
- Registered nurse jobs in Tacoma, WA
- Licensed practical nurse jobs in Tacoma, WA
- Nursing assistant jobs in Tacoma, WA
- CMA jobs in Tacoma, WA
- HHA jobs in Tacoma, WA
- Surgical tech jobs in Tacoma, WA
- Caregiver jobs in Tacoma, WA
- Student nurse jobs in Tacoma, WA
Working in Tacoma, WA
In Tacoma, the healthcare sector is a major player, with 15.7% of the workforce employed in healthcare and social assistance. This means there are plenty of career opportunities available across various settings.
Enjoy the hustle and bustle of acute care? You’ll find a variety of nursing jobs in Tacoma, WA, in hospitals and medical centers:
If you're looking for post-acute care roles, nursing homes and long-term care centers offer many options. Nursing jobs in Tacoma, WA, can also be found in community health organizations such as Link Community Clinic, government institutions like Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department, and holistic health centers like Holistic Health Clinic.
The city emphasizes mental health services, with facilities like the Emerald City Behavioral Health and Comprehensive Life Resources providing a range of essential services.
Wondering what commuting looks like in Tacoma? You can expect an average drive time of 28.1 minutes — slightly longer than the national average. Approximately 75.1% of commuters drive alone, 10.6% share rides, 5.6% use public transportation, and 4% work remotely.
If you need someone to watch your kids or pets while you’re working, Tacoma offers plenty of daycare centers and pet-sitting services to keep your loved ones safe and happy while you focus on work.
Living in Tacoma, WA
Tacoma is a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts. At Point Defiance Park, you can hike scenic trails, relax at Owen Beach, and visit the city’s zoo. Just a quick drive away, Mount Rainier National Park offers breathtaking hikes with wildflowers and waterfalls, while Chambers Bay features a gorgeous golf course and walking paths. Finally, Fox Island has beautiful beaches, perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding.
Want to explore museums and galleries in Tahoma? The Museum of Glass is a must-visit, featuring beautiful glass art and live glassblowing demonstrations. The Washington State History Museum dives into captivating stories of the region's past, while the LeMay America’s Car Museum showcases an impressive collection of over 300 vehicles. And for a dose of artistic inspiration, check out the Tacoma Art Museum’s impressive collection of pieces from local and international artists.
Tacoma is known for its cultural festivals. The Tacoma Film Festival highlights independent cinema and emerging filmmakers, while the Tacoma Pride Festival celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with lively parades and events. And in October, Tacoma Arts Month brings together a variety of art activities, workshops, and exhibitions.
The city’s food scene features a delicious blend of classic Pacific Northwest flavors, international cuisines, and farm-to-table dining, offering something for everyone. Plus, being near Puget Sound means Tacoma enjoys a bounty of fresh seafood.
Wondering about Tacoma’s weather? Summers are typically short, warm, and partly cloudy, while winters are cold and wet. Throughout the year, temperatures generally range from 37 to 78 degrees.
Interested in what your wallet will look like in Tacoma? The cost of living here sits at 22.7% higher than the national average. If you’re looking to buy, homes here average around $454,100, while renting typically runs about $1,560 a month — 9.1% higher than the average rent across the country.
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