How's it like to live in Tacoma,Washington?

Question

I'm not happy in Eugene, OR anymore, so i'm looking into exploring Tacoma,Washington as a possible place to live. I'd like to know if it is a city that is clean,safe enough for a single woman. Is it a g*y friendly city? What kinds of shopping, restaurants and recreation are there? And I heard the North side of the city is "bad", should I avoid there? I'd like to hear from people who have a more positive but truthful opinion about Tacoma, and have lived there a good amount of time. Also would an Errand Service be a good idea there? It's where I offer to do shopping,etc for people and businesses. Thanks, I appreciate all help.

Answer 1

The water front is dirty and ugly, though its getting a lot better. The area around the Tacoma Dome is pretty run down and commercial, not a friendly place. I dont really like the area around McChord Air Force Base, but thats me. Theres lots of places away from the I-5 corridor and train tracks thats nice though. Lakewood, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Federal Way. If you like a litte more rural theres Auburn, Graham, Orting. As far as the g*y scene, I wouldn't know. I think theres a pride parade up on capitol hill in seattle but I never paid much attention.