Washington / County

Moving to University Place, WA

Thinking of making a move to University Place, WA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to University Place, WA

Considering a move to University Place, WA? This welcoming community of 34,866 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $567,000 and average rents near $1,690. Commute times average 28 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (47% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore University Place's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - University Place, WA

University Place has a population of 34,866 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 40 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 69% White, 7% Black, and 11% Asian residents, and over 18% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
34,866
Density
4,300 per sq mi
Median Age
40.2
Gender Ratio
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
17.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
69.1%
Black
7.1%
Asian
10.9%
Others
12.9%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in University Place, WA?

The cost of living in University Place is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 124.3. Median home values are around $567,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,690. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$567,000
Gross Rent
$1,690
Monthly Electricity Charges
$110
Auto Insurance
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$2,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$720
State Taxes
Low: 0%| High: 9.0%
Cost Of Living Index
124.3
Grocery
116.8
Housing
142.6
Utilities
88.2
Transportation
117.1
Health Care
110.2
Miscellaneous
108.8

Crime

Is University Place, WA a safe place to live?

University Place is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 185 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 47. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Washington.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
185
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,136
Crime Index
2,321
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 541
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 47

Weather

What is the weather like in University Place, WA year-round?

University Place experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 77°F and cold winters dipping to 36°F. The area receives about 40 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 47% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
36°F
Max
47°F

Summer

Min
55°F
Max
77°F

Spring

Min
44°F
Max
61°F

Fall

Min
46°F
Max
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches
39.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
47%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $84,500 and a low poverty rate of 7.8%. Over 95% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 40% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 28 minutes, and almost 4% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$44,700
Household Income
$84,500
Family Income
$100,400
Per Capita Income
$41,200
Income Male
$52,200
Income Female
$44,600
Poverty Rate
7.8%
Non English Speakers
17.5%
Rent
$1,690
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
Public Transport Usage
4.2%
Commute Time
28.1 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
94.9%
Bachelors or More
39.7%

Education

How are the schools in University Place, WA?

University Place offers quality education options, with public schools like Curtis Senior High School and Drum Intermediate School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including University of Puget Sound and Tacoma Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Curtis Senior High School
Street
8425 40th St W
Phone
253-566-5710
Students
1,370
Student Teacher Ratio
21.5
Name
Drum Intermediate School
Street
4909 79th Ave W
Phone
253-566-5660
Students
650
Student Teacher Ratio
20.3

Private Schools

Name
Charles Wright Academy
Street
7723 Chambers Creek Rd W
Phone
253-620-8300
Students
625

Colleges

Name
University of Puget Sound
City
Tacoma
State
WA
Distance
6 miles
Students
2,600
Name
Tacoma Community College
City
Tacoma
State
WA
Distance
3 miles
Students
6,600

Healthcare

University Place residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like MultiCare Allenmore Hospital and St. Joseph Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.4 per 1,000 people and 94.6% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
MultiCare Allenmore Hospital
Address
1901 S Union Ave, Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone
(253) 403-1000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes
Name
St. Joseph Medical Center
Address
1717 S J St, Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone
(253) 426-4101
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage
94.6%
Health Care Index
76.5

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in University Place, WA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $567,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 57%. The market has seen a 2.1% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 4.6%. University Place offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$567,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,690
Owner Occupied Rate
57.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate
4.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
2.1%
New Construction Rate
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate
0.4%

DMV Information

Residents of University Place handle vehicle services through the Washington Department of Licensing, conveniently located in Tacoma. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Washington
Department
Washington Department of Licensing
Address
2121 S State St, Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone
1-360-902-3900

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.

FAQs About Moving to University Place, WA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to University Place, review the core fields on this page: population 34,866, median home value $567,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,690, commute time 28.1 minutes, and sunny days percentage 47%.

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