Fife, WA, is a Washington state city in Pierce County—not King County. It’s a suburb of the lovely Tacoma, making its location highly desirable. We’re referring to the city, not Fife Heights, which is located near this community but outside of its incorporated bounds.
History
Living in Fife comes with special meaning, thanks to its rich history rooted in Native American culture. The city sits in the ancestral lands of the Puyallup people, who were relocated after the 1854 Medicine Creek Treaty. Fife’s area is contained by the Puyallup Indian Reservation. In 1940, Fife, WA, United States, was characterized as a valley crossroads surrounded by a densely populated area known for its thickly settled berry growing and truck gardening district. Fife was a growing community that was popular for its markets, shops, and distinctive balloon-roofed dance hall positioned along the highway.
The city was officially incorporated on February 11, 1957, and established its independence due to increased traffic between Puyallup and Tacoma. Fife’s name likely honors either William J. Fife, a notable Tacoma lawyer and military figure, or the historic Scottish county of Fife.
Is Living in Fife Good?
After relocating here, you’ll find living in Fife is great! Fife is known for hosting many attractions, including the Fife History Museum, Firwood Farm Alpacas, and Brookville Gardens Park.
Whether you’re a first time home buyer in Washington or a third, relocating to a new city can be overwhelming. All Ready Moving has helped thousands of people relocate and can help you, too! Contact us at (360) 507-2447 for a free estimate; we have trustworthy Tacoma movers to handle your transition. Other areas we serve near Fife are Edgewood, Milton, Sumner, and many more.
Where Is Fife?
The city of Fife is located in Pierce County, Washington, northwest of Tacoma; Edgewood, Tacoma, and Puyallup border the city. Seattle and Fife are 28.6 miles apart, but if you’re seeking a day trip after moving to Fife, WA, It’s 146 miles from Portland to Fife, Washington. Fife is one of the wonderful Pierce County cities that boasts proximity to Tacoma and its big-city amenities. It’s 5.6 miles from Fife, WA, to Tacoma, WA.
Public Transportation
Living in Fife gives you access to great public transit options. Like many Tacoma cities, Pierce County Transit (PCT) provides public transportation to those living in Fife. PCT offers bus, paratransit, rideshare, and on-demand riding services (Runner). Passengers 18 and under ride for free, and adults pay $2 per ride or $1 if they pay with an Orca Lift Card. Seniors (65+) pay $1 per ride.
PCT offers ample scheduling and route information online to ensure you’re prepared to ride Pierce Transit.
Fife Population & Demographics
One major pro to living in Fife is its diverse demographics! The population of Fife, WA, is 10,999, per the 2020 census; this figure has decreased by 2.8% since 2010. Although the poverty rate is 0.2% above the US rate (11.5%), the median household income here is $84,538, which is $9,389 above the US median household income. Its income per capita is $36,226, compared to the US average of $41,261.
The city has a diverse racial and ethnic makeup: 43.7% White (39.2% White non-Hispanic or Latino), 16.3% Asian, 15.9% Hispanic or Latino, 13.0% Black or African American, 12.6% two or more races, 7.6% Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, 2.6% American Indian or Alaska Native.
The city’s median age is 32.5; 27% of its residents are under 19, and only 6% are above 70. This makes it ideal for people with children or young adults seeking proximity to Tacoma.
Additional demographics:
- Sex ratio: 52 males to 48 females
- Marital status: 50% married vs. 50% unmarried
- Educational attainment: 88.2% have high school diplomas, and 25.6% have bachelor’s degrees
- Foreign-born population: 21.3%
- Veteran status: 8.8%
Living in Fife means you experience multiple cultures and people from varying backgrounds.
Crime Rate
Something to consider before moving to Fife is its crime rate; we use information provided by the FBI to give you a clear idea of how safe the city is.
According to the FBI, Fife has a crime rate of 10,125 per 100k people, which is 234.6% higher than the state and 331.6% higher than the country.
- Washington crime rate per 100k people: 3,026
- US crime rate per 100k people: 2,346
- Fife violent crime rate per 100k people: 1,379
- Washington violent crime rate per 100k people: 294
- US violent crime rate per 100k people: 388
- Fife property crime rate per 100k people: 8,747
- Washington crime rate per 100k people: 2,732
- US crime rate per 100k people: 1,958
According to the city’s crime rate map, the inner city near I-5 has the highest crime rate in the Fife area. However, many other safe areas exist, particularly the outer city, further away from Tacoma. The Fife Police Department has 23 sworn officers working hard to keep the city safe.
Cost of Living in Fife Washington
Fife has a Cost of Living Index (COLI) of 140, making living 40% more expensive than in the average US city. This is high when compared to the cost of living in Tacoma, which is only 20% higher than the US average.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four must earn a household income of $106,961 or above to live comfortably in Pierce County.
Typical expenses when living in *Fife:
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: $16.50
- Gallon of milk: $4.05
- Loaf of white bread: $3.51
- Dozen eggs: $3.69
- Pound of local cheese: $5.52
- Pound of apples: $2.35
- Average Fife utilities per month: $236 (per Doxo)
Source: Numbeo
*The above figures are for Tacoma, meaning prices may differ after moving to Fife, WA.
Fife Real Estate Market
Buying a house in Washington State is a big step—it’s time to do adequate research. Before living in Fife becomes possible, you must figure out your living situation. Will you rent or buy? The information below will help you decide!
According to RedFin, Fife has a very competitive real estate market and a median sale price of $595,000. The average price per square foot is $287, which has seen a 14.6% decrease since last year. Homes for sale in Fife, WA, tend to sell within 12 days, and 0% go above the listing price. Highly desirable homes sell within about nine days and go around 2% above the listing price.
What About Rent?
Renting in the town is more affordable. The average rent in Fife per month is $1,776 for an 854-square-foot unit. RentCafe says it will cost you $2,227 per month to rent a smaller unit in Seattle.
Fife Neighborhoods | Primary Residental Area of Fife
Living in Fife is great, but especially when you reside in your dream neighborhood. Fife is a primarily residential area and consists primarily of single-family homes, meaning there are plenty of neighborhoods to choose from.
Central
The city’s center is near the History Museum Cultural Center and Wedge Park. Interstate 5 is also easily accessible, ideal for those commuting to Tacoma for school or work.
South
The south end of Fife is a great option for those seeking a more quiet lifestyle. You’re near another notable Tacoma suburb, Waller, and the Puyallup River also runs through this neighborhood, which provides lovely scenery.
Fife is also home to wonderful apartment complexes thousands of residents call home:
- Bella Sonoma, Fife, WA
- Rainier Pointe, Fife, WA
- Pointe East Apartments, Fife, WA
- Port Landing at Fife, Fife, WA
Fife Weather & Climate
One of the main perks of living in Fife is its climate. People move from all over to immerse themselves in its colorful falls, gloomy winters, and vibrant summers.
According to the Koppen climate classification, Fife experiences a Csb, warm and temperate climate; you will experience all four seasons when living in Fife. The summers are warm and dry and only last about two and a half months (June to September). The average high in the warm season is 73 degrees Fahrenheit, and the warmest month is August. The winters here are longer, almost four months (November to March), with an average low of 38 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re also very rainy—November alone sees an average of 8.3 inches.
The average annual rainfall here is 40 inches, whereas the US average is 38 inches. The community only sees about 3 inches of snow annually, which many people find appealing. There are only 142 sunnys in Fife per year; the average US state experiences 205.
The best time to visit Fife is in the summer, from early July to late August, as temperatures are warm and enjoyable, and the rain is infrequent.
Things to Do in Fife
There are many things to do in Fife, WA, and its nearby cities. The notable Tacoma Mall and Tacoma Central are less than 10 miles away. Tahoma Market is located in the town and is ideal for daily essentials. Explore all the wonderful options living in Fife brings.
Pacific Bonsai Museum – 6.5 MilesAway
The Pacific Bonsai Museum showcases an array of bonsai trees. Visitors can explore beautifully curated exhibits that highlight the artistry and cultural significance of bonsai. The museum’s tranquil setting makes this activity one of the most fun things to do in Fife.
2515 South 336th St, Federal Way, WA 98003, (253) 353-7345
Museum of Glass – 4.9 Miles Away
The Museum of Glass offers stunning displays of contemporary glass art and ideal views of the Thea Foss Waterway. The museum features live glass-blowing demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and a robust collection of glass artworks from talented artists.
1801 Dock St, Tacoma, WA 98402, (253) 284-4750
Fife History Museum and Cultural Center
The Fife History Museum and Cultural Center, run by the Washington State Historical Society, offers an engaging look into the city’s rich past. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase cultural heritage and local stories. It’s also cost-free to enter the Fife Musuem, making it one of the top free things to do in Fife!
2820 54th Ave E, Fife, WA 98424, (253) 896-4710
BJ’s Bingo & Gaming
BJ’s Bingo in Fife is an exciting destination for bingo enthusiasts and gamers alike. This venue features a variety of bingo games, electronic gaming options, and a welcoming atmosphere.
4411 Pacific Hwy E, Fife, WA 98424, (253) 922-0430
Additional Attractions
There are 11 parks in Fife, which are all maintained by the Fife Parks and Recreation Department. The city keeps the community’s parks clean and hosts ample special events for its residents to enjoy.
Fife Restaurants
While the city’s food scene isn’t known for a specific dish, you’ll find countless delicious restaurants in Fife to choose from.
Poodle Dog Restaurant
Poodle Dog is one of the most-reviewed restaurants in Fife, WA. Per the reviews, visitors rave about the chicken fried steak, bloody marys, and nostalgic ambiance. Their menu offers all types of breakfast and fare, including hearty sandwiches and rich eggs benedict.
1522 54th Ave E, Fife, WA 98424, (253) 922-6161
Warthog Barbeque Pit
If you’re seeking the best BBQ in the Tacoma area, consider paying Warthog Barbeque Pit a visit. Reviewers adore the moist brisket, perfectly cooked cornbread, and heartwarming pies. After you settle into your new home, this restaurant in Fife is a must-try.
4921 20th St E, Fife, WA 98424, (253) 896-5091
Joe’s Deli
Joe’s Deli is a beloved sandwich shop that provides tasty and convenient options like breakfast burritos and uniquely crafted sandwiches. It’s a must-try when living in Fife! Reviewers claim their carrot cake is the best of the best.
3216 20th St E, Fife, WA 98424, (253) 926-6994
Other Places to Eat in Fife
- Sapporo & Sushi Restaurant – fresh sushi
- Pho Tai Restaurant Fife – best Thai in Fife, WA
- Taqueria Tres Hermanos – unique Mexican cuisine
Jobs in Fife
Although Fife, Washington, has an unemployment rate that’s 0.8% above the US average and has only seen a 2.9% job market decrease in the past year, the city’s economy is still in terrific condition. Its projected job market growth by 2034 is 41.3%, which is 7.8% above the US average. Its economy employs 5,930 people, meaning many people living in Fife likely commute to nearby Tacoma or other suburbs for work.
There are many businesses here; according to Wikipedia, car dealerships, warehousing, and industrial facilities are very popular. But its leading industries are healthcare & social assistance, retail trade, and transportation and warehousing. Major employers in Pierce County are Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Multicare Health System, and the State of Washington. The average hourly wage in Fife is $20, and the average salary is $42,350. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the median hourly rate in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA, metropolitan area is $31.38, and the mean hourly wage is $41.60.
If you’re seeking jobs in Fife, there are over 200 positions taking applications on Indeed within the city limits and over 4,000 if you’re willing to travel just 10 miles outside of Fife for work. City of Fife jobs should certainly be considered if you work in the public sector.
Fife Schools
Fife Public Schools serves Fife, Edgewood, and Milton. K-12 public school students have one high school in their school district, Fife High School, meaning your children will experience diverse classrooms. According to U.S. News World & Report, Fife High School is one of the best Tacoma public schools, as it ranked 100 among Washington high schools.
U.S. News also states that 52% of Elementary-aged students attending Fife public schools tested above proficiency in reading, and 50% tested above proficiency in mathematics. 77% of high school students living in Fife tested above proficient in reading and writing.
Fife School District makes ample efforts to ensure all children, even special education students, are adequately cared for. Teachers attend the Council for Exceptional Children Convention to continue learning the best educational practices to implement in their classrooms.
Colleges
If you or a loved one is interested in furthering their education, consider one of Tacoma’s top colleges. The University of Puget Sound and the University of Washington Tacoma are terrific universities less than a few miles from the city of Fife, WA.
Additional Educational Resources
For more educational resources, look to the Pierce County Library System.
Fife Pierce County Library is located east of the city, off I-5, making it easily accessible. There are kids’ STEM programs, free online activity sheets for K-8 students, and adult educational assistance like book clubs and digital literacy courses.
Fife Statistics & Information
- Fife, WA, County: Pierce County
- Fife area: 5.89 miles
- Fife zip code: 98424
- Fife area code: 253
- Fife elevation: 23 feet
- Fife time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC-7 and -8)
- Closest airport to Fife: Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is 20.3 miles from Fife
Map of Fife
Explore more of this unique Tacoma suburb with this Map of Fife, WA.
Moving to Fife WA, With All Ready Moving
Anywhere in the Evergreen State is lovely, but living in the Fife region is particularly wonderful! You can access top-tier education, a great economy, and beautiful neighborhoods. If you need help with your transition, call All Ready Moving at (360) 507-2447 for a free quote; we have the best Fife WA movers to serve you.
