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Scenic harbor with boats at sunset
Washington's Waterfront Gem

Moving to
Gig Harbor

Discover Washington's most charming maritime village. Where upscale boutiques meet authentic harbor life, and every day feels like a coastal getaway.

12K
Population
$850K
Median Home
9/10
School Rating
25 min
To Tacoma
A Waterfront Paradise

Welcome to Gig Harbor's
Maritime Charm

Nestled along the pristine waters of Puget Sound, Gig Harbor is a postcard-perfect maritime village that perfectly balances small-town charm with upscale sophistication. Originally a fishing village with Croatian roots, this waterfront gem has evolved into one of Washington's most desirable communities while carefully preserving its authentic harbor character.

The downtown harbor district invites leisurely strolls past boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants. Watch sailboats glide across the bay, explore local galleries showcasing Pacific Northwest artists, or simply enjoy a latte while taking in views of Mount Rainier across the water.

With excellent schools in the Peninsula School District, a thriving arts scene, abundant outdoor recreation, and a genuine sense of community, Gig Harbor offers an idyllic escape from big-city stress - while remaining just a scenic bridge crossing away from Tacoma.

Marina Lifestyle
Vibrant Arts Scene
Top-Rated Schools
Rainier Views
Find Your Perfect Harbor

Gig Harbor Neighborhoods

From walkable downtown village life to secluded island retreats, Gig Harbor offers diverse neighborhoods for every lifestyle.

Downtown Gig Harbor waterfront
01

Downtown Harbor

The heart of Gig Harbor's charm. Walk to waterfront restaurants, boutique shops, art galleries, and the marina. Perfect for those who want to be immersed in village life with everything at their doorstep.

Walkable Waterfront Access $700K-$1.5M
Luxury home in Canterwood
02

Canterwood

An exclusive gated golf community featuring luxury homes, a championship golf course, and elegant amenities. Ideal for those seeking upscale living with resort-style recreation on their doorstep.

Gated Community Golf Course $1M-$3M+
Fox Island waterfront property
03

Fox Island

A true island escape connected by bridge, offering seclusion, stunning water views, and a tight-knit community. Features waterfront estates and wooded properties for those craving privacy and natural beauty.

Island Living Water Views $650K-$2M
Rosedale family home
04

Rosedale

A charming, established neighborhood with genuine small-town character. Features larger lots, mature trees, community events, and the beloved local Rosedale Market. Perfect for families seeking space and community.

Family-Friendly Larger Lots $600K-$1.2M
Living the Harbor Life

What Makes Gig Harbor Special

From morning kayak paddles to sunset gallery walks, discover the upscale yet relaxed lifestyle that draws families and professionals alike.

Boating & Water Activities

Launch your kayak, paddleboard, or sailboat right from the harbor. Multiple marinas offer moorage, and sailing clubs welcome newcomers. The calm harbor waters are perfect for beginners, while Puget Sound beckons experienced boaters.

Art Galleries & Boutiques

Downtown is home to numerous galleries featuring Pacific Northwest artists, unique boutiques, and artisan shops. The monthly Art Walk draws art lovers from across the region, and the community strongly supports local creatives.

Waterfront Dining

From the legendary Tides Tavern to upscale restaurants like Brix 25, Gig Harbor's dining scene punches above its weight. Fresh seafood, waterfront patios, and locally-sourced menus define the culinary experience here.

Peninsula School District

Highly-rated Peninsula School District is a major draw for families. Gig Harbor High School and Peninsula High School consistently rank among Pierce County's best, with strong academics, arts programs, and athletics.

Maritime Heritage

Gig Harbor's Croatian fishing heritage lives on through community events, the Harbor History Museum, and annual Maritime Gig Festival. The working harbor still sees commercial fishing boats alongside pleasure craft.

Outdoor Recreation

Miles of waterfront trails, numerous parks, and easy access to the Kitsap Peninsula's forests. Kopachuck State Park offers camping and beaches, while the Cushman Trail connects neighborhoods for walking and cycling.

Bridge background
Tacoma Narrows Crossing

Bridge Commute to Tacoma

The iconic Tacoma Narrows Bridge connects Gig Harbor to Tacoma and the greater Seattle metro area. While the bridge commute does involve a toll, many residents find the trade-off worthwhile for the quality of life on the peninsula side.

Commute times to downtown Tacoma average 20-30 minutes in normal traffic, with peak rush hour extending to 35-50 minutes. Seattle is approximately 50-70 minutes depending on traffic.

To Tacoma
20-30 min
via Highway 16
To Seattle
50-70 min
via I-5 North
Bridge Toll
$5-6
Good To Go pass recommended
Remote Work
Popular
Many residents work from home
Bridge crossing at sunset
Pro Tip

Get a Good To Go pass for discounted bridge tolls and faster crossings through the electronic lanes.

Making Your Decision

Is Gig Harbor Right For You?

Every community has its trade-offs. Here's an honest look at what living in Gig Harbor is really like.

Why You'll Love It

  • Charming waterfront village atmosphere with genuine character
  • Excellent Peninsula School District with top-rated schools
  • Active boating, sailing, and outdoor recreation community
  • Upscale shops, galleries, and restaurants within walking distance
  • Strong sense of community with festivals and events
  • Stunning views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier
  • Safe, family-friendly environment with low crime

Consider These Trade-offs

  • Bridge toll adds to daily commute costs ($5-6 each way)
  • High home prices compared to other Pierce County areas
  • Limited public transit options - car is essential
  • Bridge backups can significantly extend commute times
  • Smaller selection of restaurants and nightlife vs. cities
  • Tourist crowds during peak summer months
  • Limited shopping - major retailers require a bridge trip
Financial Considerations

Cost of Living in Gig Harbor

Understanding the financial landscape helps you plan your move. Here's what to expect.

$850K
Median Home Price
$2,000
2BR Apartment Rent
+32%
vs National Average
0%
State Income Tax
Category Gig Harbor WA State Avg National Avg
Housing $850,000 $650,000 $420,000
Rent (2BR) $1,800-$2,200 $1,600-$2,000 $1,400
Groceries +8% above avg +5% Baseline
Utilities $150-$200/mo $160/mo $175/mo
Transportation +15% (tolls) +5% Baseline
Common Questions

Gig Harbor Moving FAQ

Is Gig Harbor, WA a good place to live?
Yes, Gig Harbor is one of Washington's most desirable communities. It offers a charming waterfront village atmosphere, rich maritime heritage, upscale boutiques and galleries, excellent Peninsula School District schools, an active boating and outdoor lifestyle, and a relaxed yet sophisticated small-town feel. The trade-off is higher home prices (median around $850,000) and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge commute.
What are the best neighborhoods in Gig Harbor?
The best neighborhoods depend on your priorities. Downtown Harbor offers walkable village living with waterfront shops and restaurants. Canterwood is an upscale golf community with luxury homes. Fox Island provides secluded island living with stunning water views. Rosedale offers a quieter, more rural feel with larger properties and strong community character.
How long is the commute from Gig Harbor to Tacoma?
The commute from Gig Harbor to downtown Tacoma is approximately 20-30 minutes via Highway 16 and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge in light traffic. During peak rush hour, expect 35-50 minutes. Note that there is a toll on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge ($5-6 depending on payment method). Many residents use Good To Go passes for discounted tolls.
Are Gig Harbor schools good?
Yes, Gig Harbor is served by Peninsula School District, one of Pierce County's top-rated districts. The district includes highly-regarded schools like Gig Harbor High School, Peninsula High School, Goodman Middle School, and Harbor Heights Elementary. Many families choose Gig Harbor specifically for the quality of education.
What is Gig Harbor known for?
Gig Harbor is known for its picturesque waterfront downtown with boutiques and galleries, rich maritime and fishing village heritage, the iconic Tacoma Narrows Bridge views, excellent boating and sailing opportunities, charming art galleries and local shops, summer festivals including the Maritime Gig Festival, and stunning views of Mount Rainier across the water.
Is Gig Harbor expensive?
Gig Harbor's cost of living is approximately 30-35% higher than the national average, primarily driven by housing costs. The median home price is around $850,000, while rentals average $1,800-$2,200 for a 2-bedroom. The bridge toll adds to commute costs. However, Washington has no state income tax, which provides meaningful savings.

Ready to Drop Anchor in Gig Harbor?

Let Next Phase Moving handle your relocation to this beautiful maritime village. Our experienced crew knows the area, the bridge logistics, and how to make your move smooth sailing.

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