Moving to Tukwila, WA:
Your 2026 Guide
Welcome to Tukwila - home to Westfield Southcenter Mall, one of Washington's most diverse communities, and your gateway to affordable Seattle-area living with incredible transit connections.
Quick Answer
Tukwila is ideal for: Budget-conscious shoppers, diverse families, airport/transit commuters, and those seeking urban convenience at affordable prices. Light rail gets you to downtown Seattle in 25 minutes or SeaTac Airport in 5 minutes.
Retail Stores
at Westfield Southcenter
Languages Spoken
in Tukwila Schools
To Downtown Seattle
via Light Rail
To SeaTac Airport
via Light Rail
Key Facts About Tukwila
In This Guide
The Pacific Northwest's Premier Shopping Destination
Tukwila is home to Westfield Southcenter Mall - the largest shopping center in the region with over 200 stores, plus countless retail corridors and dining options.
Westfield Southcenter Mall
Over 200 stores including Nordstrom, Macy's, Apple, and more. The ultimate shopping destination with dining, entertainment, and year-round events.
Tukwila Retail District
Beyond the mall, discover big-box retailers along Southcenter Boulevard including Costco, IKEA, Home Depot, and countless specialty shops.
International Dining Scene
Tukwila's diversity shines through its food. From Vietnamese pho to Ethiopian injera, Somali cuisine to Mexican taquerias - a world of flavors awaits.
Local & Specialty Shops
Discover unique international markets, ethnic grocery stores, and locally-owned boutiques that reflect Tukwila's multicultural heritage.
Entertainment & Recreation
AMC Theatres, bowling alleys, arcades, and family entertainment centers make Tukwila a destination for fun beyond just shopping.
One of Washington's Most Diverse Communities
Tukwila celebrates its status as one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the entire United States. With over 80 languages spoken in local schools and residents hailing from every corner of the globe, this is a community where different cultures don't just coexist - they thrive together.
From Somali community centers to Vietnamese Buddhist temples, from Hispanic cultural events to Ethiopian restaurants, Tukwila offers a genuine multicultural experience that's rare even in the Pacific Northwest.
80+ Languages
Spoken in schools
Global Community
Cultures from everywhere
Tukwila Neighborhoods
Explore the distinct neighborhoods that make up Tukwila, each with its own character and advantages.
Thorndyke
A peaceful residential area perfect for families seeking quiet streets and established homes. Good access to schools and parks while remaining close to retail areas.
McMicken Heights
Ideal for frequent travelers and airport workers. Offers some of the most affordable housing options in the area with quick access to SeaTac Airport.
Allentown
The heart of Tukwila's diversity. A welcoming community with excellent multicultural amenities, international markets, and community services.
Affordable Living in the Seattle Metro
Tukwila offers one of the most affordable entry points into the Seattle metropolitan area. While Seattle and Bellevue prices continue to climb, Tukwila maintains reasonable housing costs without sacrificing access to jobs, transit, or amenities.
Median Home Price
$485,000
Average 1BR Rent
$1,650/mo
vs. Seattle Prices
25-35% Less
Light Rail Access to Seattle & Airport
Tukwila International Boulevard Station connects you to downtown Seattle in 25 minutes and SeaTac Airport in just 5 minutes - no traffic, no parking hassles.
Link Light Rail
Direct service to Seattle, UW, Capitol Hill, and Bellevue
Metro Bus Routes
Multiple bus lines connecting to surrounding cities
I-5 & I-405 Access
Quick freeway access to Seattle, Bellevue, and Tacoma
SeaTac Airport
5-minute light rail ride or 10-minute drive
Tukwila School District
The Tukwila School District serves approximately 3,000 students across 6 schools. With over 80 languages spoken by students, the district has developed exceptional multilingual programs and cultural support services.
Foster High School
Comprehensive high school with diverse programs
Showalter Middle School
Grades 6-8 with STEM programs
Elementary Schools
Thorndyke, Cascade View, Tukwila Elementary
Note: Some Tukwila addresses may fall within Highline, Renton, or Kent school districts. Verify school boundaries when house hunting.
Job Opportunities
Tukwila's location makes it a hub for retail, warehouse, and logistics jobs - plus easy commutes to Seattle's tech industry.
Retail & Customer Service
Westfield Southcenter alone employs thousands in retail positions. Additional opportunities at nearby big-box stores and restaurants.
High DemandWarehouse & Logistics
Amazon fulfillment centers, distribution hubs, and freight companies operate throughout the area with competitive wages.
Growing SectorAirport & Aviation
SeaTac Airport provides jobs in airlines, ground services, TSA, and airport retail. Easy commute from Tukwila neighborhoods.
5 Min AwayClose to SeaTac Airport
For frequent travelers or aviation industry workers, Tukwila's proximity to SeaTac Airport is unbeatable. Just 3 miles away, you can reach the terminal in 5 minutes by light rail or about 10 minutes by car.
This makes Tukwila perfect for business travelers, flight crews, and anyone who values easy airport access without paying Seattle prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about moving to Tukwila, WA
What is Tukwila, WA known for?
Tukwila is best known for Westfield Southcenter Mall, the largest shopping center in the Pacific Northwest with over 200 stores. The city is also recognized for its exceptional diversity, affordable housing options compared to Seattle, and excellent light rail connections to downtown Seattle and SeaTac Airport.
Is Tukwila a good place to live?
Yes! Tukwila offers affordable housing, incredible retail access, light rail transit to Seattle and the airport, and one of Washington's most diverse communities. It's ideal for those seeking urban convenience at suburban prices, especially frequent travelers and retail/warehouse workers.
How diverse is Tukwila?
Tukwila is one of the most diverse cities in Washington State and the entire United States. Over 80 languages are spoken in Tukwila schools, and the community represents cultures from around the world including Somali, Vietnamese, Hispanic, Ethiopian, and many other backgrounds.
Does Tukwila have light rail?
Yes! Tukwila International Boulevard Station connects you to Seattle downtown in about 25 minutes and to SeaTac Airport in just 5 minutes via the Link Light Rail. This makes Tukwila extremely convenient for commuters and travelers who want to avoid traffic and parking costs.
What are the best neighborhoods in Tukwila?
Popular neighborhoods include Thorndyke (quiet residential area perfect for families), McMicken Heights (close to the airport with affordable options), and Allentown (diverse community with good multicultural amenities). Each offers different advantages depending on your priorities for housing, transit access, or community character.
How much does it cost to live in Tukwila?
Tukwila is significantly more affordable than Seattle. The median home price is around $485,000 (vs. Seattle's $850K+), and average 1-bedroom rent is about $1,650/month. Overall, expect to pay 25-35% less than Seattle while still having excellent access to jobs and amenities.
Planning Your Move to Tukwila?
Next Phase Moving provides premium residential and commercial moving services throughout the Seattle metro area. Let us help you settle into your new Tukwila home - whether you're coming for the shopping, the diversity, or the affordable living.
