Commute
A high commute score suggests convenient, easy access to public transportation, with shorter-than-average work commute times to work.
Employment
This area excels in the employment category with a score well above average, primarily due to the higher median home income, per capita income and low unemployment rates.
Housing
High scores in the housing category are attributed to this area, possibly pointing to a favorable home affordability ratio, robust appreciation rates or elevated home values.
Schools
The schools category boasts a high score thanks to factors like excellent test scores, impressive graduation rates and the convenient placement of elementary and high schools in this area.
Ratings
Locals express favorable opinions about the proximity of everyday local amenities, parks, public transit, neighborly atmosphere, strong sense of community and the general safety of the area.
Amenities
A large portion of amenities are not ideally situated within walking distance, potentially requiring residents to utilize a vehicle or public transportation.
Cost Of Living
The cost of living in this area is notably high, making it a more expensive place to live. You'll find higher expenses for everyday goods and services, housing and groceries.
Gig Harbor, Washington is a moderately-sized city with a population of 10,659 inhabitants. The majority of Gig Harbor residents report their race to be White; this is followed by Asian and Black. Long commute times to work can be incredibly frustrating, ranking just behind housework on the list of life's annoyances. If you opt to make Gig Harbor your home, your one-way commute time will typically last around 28 minutes, a duration that aligns with the national average commute time of 26 minutes.
Living in Gig Harbor can be a great experience for anyone moving to the town. Having said that, in the state of Washington, there are many desirable places to live, so choose wisely! When searching for a new neighborhood, several factors play a vital role in determining its suitability. Safety should be a top priority, ensuring a secure environment with low crime rates. Proximity to your workplace or school helps minimize commuting time and allows for a better work-life balance. Availability of essential amenities such as parks, coffee shops, restaurants, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities contributes to convenience and well-being. Access to reliable public transportation options facilitates easy commuting and connectivity. Additionally, considering the sense of community and the overall atmosphere that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences fosters a harmonious living experience. The best areas in Gig Harbor and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from amenities, crime, education, housing, you will see a detailed breakdown of the most important information as well as comparisons to the Washington and national averages.
The livability score in Gig Harbor is 74 out of 100 and the city is ranked in the 86th percentile of all cities across America. Based on the scores for each individual category, Gig Harbor has been rewarded with high marks for education (A+), employment (A+) and housing (A-). There are some categories that Gig Harbor scores poorly for, including: amenities (F), crime (F) and cost of living (F). It might be worth taking a closer look to find out why.
When contemplating a move, job prospects often top the list of priorities. In Gig Harbor, the outlook for new employment is notably brighter than in many other areas. The low unemployment rate of 0.7% points to a surge in job opportunities, the potential for higher wages, enhanced workforce productivity and increased economic growth. These favorable conditions bode well for individuals seeking career advancement and financial stability, making this area an appealing destination for those prioritizing professional opportunities and economic prosperity.
Standardized school test scores offer a valuable benchmark for assessing the quality of educational programs, instructional methods, and curriculum effectiveness. Recognizing that Gig Harbor schools excel in test scores is a crucial consideration when determining the suitability of this area for residence. The local schools boast an impressive average test score of 65%, significantly higher than the national average. This stellar academic performance not only attests to the excellence of the educational system but also underscores the area's commitment to providing a high-quality education, making Gig Harbor an appealing choice for those prioritizing their children's educational prospects.
Finding affordable real estate and housing in Gig Harbor can be tricky. Having said that, this area might be the place to get the best of both worlds. Based on factors like home/rental affordability and appreciation rates, this area has received an above average score in the housing category. A healthy real estate market can lead to wealth appreciation for property owners, as rising property values can contribute to homeowners' equity, financial stability and the ability to build long-term wealth.
Being close to public transit, grocery stores, parks and other conveniences are all important when weighing your options for a new home in Gig Harbor. Before you determine if any of these amenities are available in the area, you will also want to know if the real estate prices in Gig Harbor are affordable. Median real estate prices in Gig Harbor come in at $934,406, which is 90% higher than the Washington average. The home price to income ratio compares the median home prices to the median household income. In Gig Harbor, the home price to income ratio is 7.4, which is 37% higher than the Washington average.
Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Statistic | Gig Harbor | Washington | National |
| Average one way commute | 28min | 27min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 81.8% | 72.3% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 4.7% | 10.2% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 1.6% | 6.2% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 1.3% | 0.9% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 1.6% | 3.6% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 8.2% | 5.6% | 4.6% |
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