WELCOME TO Old Town, Tacoma

Discover the Heart of Old Town Tacoma

Living in Old Town is an ideal fit for those who value history, walkability, and a close connection to the water. As one of Tacoma’s oldest neighborhoods, Old Town offers a distinctive lifestyle shaped by its coastal setting, historic roots, and intimate scale. Life here feels calm and intentional, grounded in a sense of place that is both timeless and deeply connected to the city’s beginnings.

The original site of the Tacoma settlement, Old Town holds a special place in the city’s story. It’s literally where Tacoma began, and that legacy remains in the neighborhood today. From its street patterns to its architecture, Old Town reflects the city’s earliest growth, creating an environment that feels rooted, authentic, and enduring rather than reimagined or replaced.

Residents enjoy sweeping views of Commencement Bay, easy access to waterfront paths, and a neighborhood atmosphere that feels personal rather than busy. Time spent outdoors, whether walking along the bay or taking in the view from a nearby overlook, becomes part of everyday life instead of an occasional escape. With downtown Tacoma and North Tacoma just minutes away, Old Town offers a rare balance of serenity and proximity.

A Neighborhood Rich in History and Character

The neighborhood is home to a distinctive collection of historic residences, including classic Craftsman houses, early-twentieth-century homes, and thoughtfully updated properties that honor their original design. Rather than erasing the past, many renovations here are careful and respectful, allowing the neighborhood’s architectural heritage to remain visible and intact.

Many homes still showcase original details that speak directly to Old Town’s history. Facades, rooflines, and layouts were shaped by both the era in which they were built and the land they occupy. Positioned along hillsides and near the shoreline, these homes feel responsive to their surroundings, creating a sense of intention that is difficult to replicate in newer developments.

Sloping streets, mature landscaping, and varied lot sizes further reinforce Old Town’s organic character. The natural topography plays a visible role in how streets unfold and how homes are arranged, influencing views, light, and the overall experience of moving through the neighborhood. Each block offers subtle shifts in perspective, making the streetscape feel layered and visually engaging.

A Close-Knit Community With a Local Feel

Old Town draws people who appreciate connection, continuity, and a strong sense of place. Its smaller footprint naturally fosters a close-knit atmosphere where neighbors recognize one another, exchange greetings, and share pride in their surroundings. There is a familiarity here that develops easily, supported by the neighborhood’s scale and shared history. Many residents choose Old Town for its quiet, residential feel while remaining closely connected to the rest of Tacoma.

People walk their streets, enjoy time outdoors, and move through the neighborhood at a pace that encourages interaction rather than anonymity. Local businesses and gathering places contribute to this sense of connection. Small restaurants, coffee spots, and nearby neighborhood amenities become part of everyday routines, offering natural opportunities for conversation and familiarity. Community events and informal meetups further strengthen relationships without feeling forced or overly structured.

Walkability With Waterfront Access

Everyday life in Old Town is shaped by walkability and proximity. The neighborhood’s compact layout allows many residents to walk comfortably to the waterfront, nearby dining, and local services without relying heavily on a car. Daily routines feel unrushed, supported by streets that are easy to navigate and designed at a human scale. Just steps away is Ruston Way, a scenic stretch along Commencement Bay that offers walking and biking paths, waterfront dining, and expansive views of the Sound. This access makes time outdoors part of everyday life rather than something reserved for weekends or special occasions.

A morning walk, an afternoon stroll, or an evening along the water can easily fit into a typical day. Old Town also benefits from quick access to downtown Tacoma, nearby employment centers, and surrounding neighborhoods. Convenience here feels natural rather than congested. You can move easily between quiet residential streets and the broader city while still returning home to a setting that feels calm, personal, and grounded.

Old Town, Tacoma Neighborhood Boundaries & Zip Codes

Old Town is a well-recognized historic neighborhood with boundaries shaped more by geography, waterfront access, and long-standing local understanding than by formal zoning lines. Its identity is closely tied to its setting along the water and its position between downtown and North Tacoma, giving it a distinct sense of place within Tacoma. The neighborhood is most commonly understood to extend north toward the Ruston boundary, south toward downtown Tacoma, west along Commencement Bay and Ruston Way, and east as it transitions into North Tacoma’s residential streets.  

Primary Zip Codes Serving Central Tacoma: