Living in Tukwila, WA is exceptionally nice–this Seattle suburb has a suburban-urban mixed ambiance that provides the perfect amount of quiet suburbia and big-city convenience. The city of Tukwila is located in King County, Washington, and is a part of the Seattle Metropolitan Area. It was incorporated in 1908. The name means hazelnut in Chinook Jargon (a pacific northwest language.)
The very first settler was Joseph Foster, in 1853, who was a Duwamish person. The Duwamish people were foragers and lived in cedar longhouses. The city began as a main trading post and agricultural center, but as the population grew, so did the industries, and Tukwila’s mainly farm-oriented commerce developed into the global aerospace and advanced manufacturing industry it is today.
Tukwila is a nice place to live. While a smaller Seattle suburb, there are plenty of things to do and places to eat. Residents consider the city a suburban-urban mix, ideal for families and young adults. Does this city sound like a place you’d enjoy? Before moving to Tukwila, check out the comprehensive guide we’ve written.
Where Is Tukwila Washington?
Tukwila, WA, is a city in King County and is a part of the Seattle Metropolitan Area. It’s 12 miles from Tukwila, WA, to Seattle, WA. The city borders Seattle, Renton—an affordable Seattle suburb, and SeaTac. Most of the city is developed, but untouched areas provide optimal Washington scenery—like western red cedars and maple trees.
Sound Transit provides public transportation for Tukwila, which has over 15 different stations spanning the Seattle Metro Area. The Sound Transit routes and schedules are convenient and easy to follow.
Tukwila Population & Demographics
The Tukwila population is 21,798, compared to 19,107 in 2010—19.6% are under the age of 18, and the median age is 36.1 years old.
Tukwila Demographics:
- Racial makeup: 32.6% White, 19.2% Black, 24.1% Asian, 18% Hispanic, 6.5% Two or More, 3.5% Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islanders
- Foreign-born population: 39.2%
- Median household income: $71,688
- Educational attainment: 81.5% have high school diplomas or higher, 25.6% have high school diplomas or higher
Tukwila has a very diverse population. Around 60% of its residents are African American, Hispanic, or Asian.
Famous people from Tukwila:
- Jim North
- William Cumming
- Mario Segale
Is Tukwila safe? According to the FBI, the Tukwila crime rate is 15,154 per 100k people, compared to Washington’s 3,026 per 100k people and America’s 2,346 per 100k people. The city’s overall crime rate is 400.8% higher than the state and 545.9% higher than the country.
Although the Tukwila crime rate is high according to the FBI, the Federal Bureau Investigations crime rate statistics aren’t always 100% accurate at determining a place’s overall safety. Crime rate statistics are pulled from specific areas, and some cities can have very high crime areas, which makes their crime rate high (like the case with Tukwila, Washington.) Even if a city has a high crime rate, it doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of super safe places to live!
- Tukwila violent crime rate per 100k people: 737
- Washington’s violent crime rate per 100k people: 294
- US violent crime rate per 100k people: 388
- Tukwila property crime rate per 100k people: 14,417
- Washington property crime rate per 100k people: 2,732
- US property crime rate per 100k people: 1,958
Despite the few high-crime areas in Tukwila, Washington, there are plenty of safe neighborhoods to reside in (which we have listed below!)
The 66 sworn officers of the Tukwila Police Department work very hard to keep the citizens safe.
Tukwila WA Cost of Living
The Tukwila WA cost of living is higher than the US average by 30.4%, putting its Cost of Living Index (COLI) at 130.4.
According to BestPlaces, the Tukwila housing index is 173.3, compared to the US housing index of 100—Tukwila homes are 73.3% more expensive than the US average. The Tukwila utility index is 70.8, which is 29.2% lower than the US average. The Economic Policy Institute suggests a salary of $109,434 to live comfortably in King County.
Typical Tukwila living expenses:
- Inexpensive restaurants meal: $25.00
- Gallon of milk: $4.37
- Loaf of white bread: $3.88
- Carton of eggs: $4.47
- One pound of apples: $2.88
- Average Tukwila utilities per month: $406 (per Doxo)
Source: Numbeo—these figures are for Seattle, but expect similar prices in Tukwila.
Redfin says the Tukwila real estate is very competitive. On average, a Tukwila home for sale will receive 11 offers and sell within 9 days. The median Tukwila home price is $475,000. And the average price per square foot is $313.
While the market can be tough, that means any purchase is a great investment. Browse the homes for sale in Tukwila, WA; maybe your dream house was just listed!
According to RentCafe, the average rent in Seattle is $1,731 for a 777-square-foot rental; Tukwila will have similar prices.
Tukwila Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Tukwila
Are you wondering where to live outside of Seattle? Tukwila, Washington, has its fair share of terrific neighborhoods.
Tukwila Hill | Centrally located neighborhood
Tukwila Hill is located in west central Tukwila and is positioned along the Duwamish River. Tukwila Elementary School is located in the neighborhood, and Tukwila Family Fun Center is just around the corner. The home prices in Tukwila Hill vary and will range from as low as the mid-200s to the high 700s. Most people rent in the city, so condos and Tukwila apartments are common.
Whether looking for homes for sale in Tukwila Hill or available rentals, you’ll find the neighborhood charming and optimally located.
Foster | Family-friendly Tukwila neighborhood
Foster is located near a great park in Tukwila—Foster Memorial Park. The Tukwila Pool is also in Foster, which is extra convenient for busy families. The median sale price in this neighborhood is $610,000, which is down 43.5% since 2022. Although Foster is small, the housing market isn’t too competitive, and you’ll find houses for sale in Foster often.
The monthly HOA fee is $257, covering maintenance for common areas, trash removal, and water/sewer. If you want to explore what living in Tukwila is like, check out Foster Golf Links or Juba Restaurant & Café, which are both right near this vibrant Tukwila neighborhood.
Allentown | Safe Tukwila neighborhood
According to a Tukwila crime map, the north end of the city sees the least amount of crime, which is where Allentown is located. Many homes in Allentown are positioned along the city’s river resulting in breathtaking views. The real estate market in this area is highly competitive and expensive, likely due to its location and safety. The median sale price is $663, and there are rarely rental properties available.
The Tukwila Community Center, which has numerous amenities like a skating center, weekly events, and water-front walking trails, is a part of this great neighborhood. Other conveniences like Starbucks are close by. Are you considering moving to Tukwila? Browse these Allentown homes for sale.
Tukwila Weather
According to the Koppen classification. The city’s climate is Csb, or warm and temperate. The summers are mild, dry, and breezy, but the winters are cold and wet. The Tukwila temperature will vary from 37 degrees Fahrenheit to 79 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tukwila, Washington, will typically see 154 sunny days a year with an annual snowfall of 6 inches and annual rainfall of 28 inches. January, November, and December have the highest precipitation, and July has the least. The city saw the most rainy days of 2022 in December. December is also the coldest month, with an average of 46 degrees Fahrenheit.
The best time to visit Tukwila is mid-July to late August—it’s not too hot or humid, but you won’t get stuck in the cold rain every day. Visit in the summertime to enjoy the water weather activities.
Things to Do in Tukwila
Do you want to get a better idea of what living in Tukwila is like? There are countless fun, family-friendly Tukwila activities. We have our top three listed below! But before you start your busy day of excursions, consider checking out the Westfield Southcenter, commonly referred to as the Tukwila WA Mall or Medina Mall.
Tukwila Pool
Optimal on a hot summer day—Tukwila’s public pool. The Tukwila Pool is a great family-friendly activity. They provide swim lessons for the kiddos, and you have access to the 25-yard, six-lane lap pool and shallow pool area.
Keep an eye on the Tukwila swimming pool schedule and programs.
4414 S 144th St, Tukwila, WA 98168, (206) 267-2350
AMC Southcenter 16
Are you looking for a spot to hang with friends and have a romantic date night? AMC Southcenter 16 is a great choice. It’s the only Tukwila, WA, movie theater with a full dine-in menu and bar.
3600 Southcenter Mall, Tukwila, WA 98188, (206) 214-0180
Tukwila Community Center
The Tukwila Community Center is one of the best places for children. There is a constant stream of events, various hiking and walking trails, and even adult wellness programs. Don’t miss anything important; watch the Tukwila community center events calendar.
12424 42nd Ave S, Tukwila, WA 98168, (206) 768-2822
Additional attractions in Tukwila
- DEFY Seattle | Tukwila trampoline park
- Bowlero
- Fort Dent Park
The 18 beautiful Tukwila parks are maintained by the Tukwila Parks and Recreation Department. The city is no stranger to community events, which you can browse on the special events calendar.
Restaurant in Tukwila
There are many Tukwila restaurants worth visiting. Here is our perfectly curated list of the best places to eat in Tukwila.
Bahama Breeze
While the area is more known for traditional seafood dishes and game meats, that’s not to say Bahama Breeze’s delectable menu isn’t up to par. Devour a Caribbean classic like jerk shrimp while sipping their signature Bahamarita® cocktail.
15700 Southcenter Pkwy, Tukwila, WA 98188, (206) 241-4448
Simply Thai
Simply Thai is one of the few highly-reviewed Thai restaurants in Tukwila. This gem has over 1,400 reviews while maintaining a nearly 4.5-star reputation—talk about consistency. Their Phad Thai, chicken satay, and prompt service are raved about in the reviews.
235 Strander Blvd #140, Tukwila, WA 98188, (206) 575-8777
Corner Bakery Cafe
It’s the most important meal of the day, and luckily breakfast in Tukwila is known for being delicious and nutritious! Corner Bakery offers comforting favorites like pancakes and bacon or healthier choices like overnight oats. You can enjoy your meal with a specialty cafe coffee.
393a Strander Blvd, Tukwila, WA 98188, (206) 673-2955
Jobs in Tukwila
The city of Tukwila has a thriving economy; it’s seen a job market increase of 2.6% since 2022 and has a projected future job growth of 40.5% by 2033. According to the city’s economic website, there are over 40,000 jobs in Tukwila—-the city employs more people than 29 Washington counties.
The main industries are manufacturing, transportation and warehousing, retail trade, and healthcare and social services. The main employers in Tukwila are BECU, Genoa, and Moneytree.
Retail trade is a huge driver of the city’s economy—Westfield Southcenter is the largest mall in the Pacific Northwest. In 2016 the city generated 2.0 billion dollars in taxable retail sales.
Before moving to Tukwila, having your finances in order is important, and knowing how your current salary compares is a great start. Here are the average wages and salaries:
- The average hourly rate in Tukwila is $19.80
- The average salary is $79,000
Popular positions and their average hourly rate in the city:
- Officer Manager: $28
- Delivery Driver: $18
- Front Desk Agent: $17
- Account Manager: $19
- Field Service Technician: $26
Source: PayScale
If you aren’t moving to Tukwila for a job, you’re likely on the prowl for a new position. Don’t let the stress of job searching damper your excitement! There are plenty of Tukwila jobs hiring and high-paying Tukwila city jobs.
Tukwila Schools
The Tukwila School District serves the city. The school district is smaller, with only three preschools, three elementary schools, two middle schools, and three high schools.
The student body is diverse; 19.7% Black, 25.9% Asian or Asian/Pacific Islander, 31.7% Hispanic/Latino, 4.2% Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, and 0.8% American Indian or Alaska Native. 6% of students are of two or more ethnicities, and 1% haven’t specified.
The student-teacher ratio is 17:1, which is the state average. 53% of high school students are graded high in reading proficiency.
Tukwila Elementary School and Showalter Middle School are great choices and provide unique resources. For example, Tukwila Elementary has clubs like Lego Robotics and Choir. They also have frequent field trips to fun places like the zoo!
Tukwila Statistics & Information
- Tukwila, WA County: King County
- Tukwila area: 9.6 mi²
- Tukwila zip codes: 98032, 98057, 98108, 98138, 98168, 98178, 91888
- Tukwila area code: 206
- Tukwila elevation: 138′
- Tukwila time zone: Pacific Daylight Time
- The closest airport to Tukwila: Tukwila is 2.3 miles from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
Map of Tukwila WA
Are you looking for explore for activities in Tukwila? Here is a map of the city!
Living in Tukwila is fantastic; the economy is thriving, with countless job opportunities, and many great neighborhoods, the parks are delightful, and the cost of living is only slightly above the US average. Let the trusted Tukwila movers at All Ready Moving handle the stress and heavy lifting during your relocation to this fine city. Call us at 360-507-2447 for a free estimate.
