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Sixth Ave (6th Avenue District)

Tacoma, WA

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$605,732 (as of early 2025, 98406)
Median Home Price
75–85 (Very Walkable in core 6th Ave corridor)
Walkability Score
Above average for Tacoma; some schools (Stadium, Grant) highly rated, others average.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Generally runs along 6th Avenue from Sprague Ave (east) to Orchard St (west), bordered by North End, Central Tacoma, and West End neighborhoods.

Zip Codes

9840698405

Market Data Summary

Price Range$490,000–$730,000+ (varies by size, condition, and proximity to 6th Ave core)
Price per Sq Ft$320–$380/sqft (estimate for 2025)
Inventory LevelsLow inventory; 1,283 homes for sale in Tacoma as of June 2025, up 4.4% MoM but still below demand.

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Single-family homesCraftsman bungalowsMid-century housesTownhomesSmall multifamily (duplexes, triplexes)

Architectural Styles

CraftsmanTudorMid-century modernContemporary infill

Property Details

Typical Lot Sizes3,500–7,000 sqft (urban lots, some larger west of Alder)
Home Age Range1900s–1960s (historic core), some new infill (2000s–2020s)
Construction QualityGenerally solid; many homes updated, but some older stock may need modernization.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Diverse mix: young professionals, families, artists, students (UPS nearby), and long-term residents.

Community Vibe

Eclectic, vibrant, artsy, and community-oriented. Strong local pride and neighborhood events.

Typical Residents

  • Young professionals
  • Families
  • Students
  • Artists
  • Retirees

Family Friendly

Moderate to high; parks, schools, and walkable amenities attract families, though some nightlife may be less appealing for those seeking quiet.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • • Jefferson Park
  • • Franklin Park
  • • People’s Community Center
  • • Nearby Ruston Way waterfront

Dining Options

  • • Craft breweries
  • • Ethnic eateries
  • • Farm-to-table restaurants
  • • Casual cafes

Shopping Centers

  • • 6th Ave retail corridor
  • • Proctor District (nearby)
  • • Tacoma Central Shopping Center (short drive)

Local Businesses

  • • Coffee shops
  • • Boutique retailers
  • • Music venues
  • • Art galleries
  • • Fitness studios

Education & Schools

Above average for Tacoma; some schools (Stadium, Grant) highly rated, others average.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • • Grant Elementary
  • • Franklin Elementary

Middle Schools

  • • Jason Lee Middle School

High Schools

  • • Stadium High School
  • • Silas High School

Private Schools

  • • Annie Wright Schools (nearby)
  • • Bellarmine Prep

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • • Pierce Transit bus lines (6th Ave corridor)

Major Roads

  • • 6th Avenue
  • • Sprague Ave
  • • Orchard St
  • • SR-16 (quick access to I-5)

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times10–15 min to downtown Tacoma; 40–60 min to Seattle (traffic dependent)
WalkabilityHigh along 6th Ave; moderate in adjacent residential streets.
ParkingStreet parking can be tight near 6th Ave businesses, easier in residential zones.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Young professionals
  • Investors
  • Families valuing walkability
  • Artists/creatives

Key Selling Points

  • Vibrant 6th Ave lifestyle
  • Walk to dining, nightlife, parks
  • Historic charm with modern updates
  • Strong community vibe

Pricing Considerations

Homes priced at or just below market value sell fastest; premium for updated, move-in ready properties.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Older homes may need repairs or updates.

Response Strategy:

Provide inspection reports, highlight recent upgrades, offer home warranty.

Objection: Noise from nightlife or traffic.

Response Strategy:

Showcase quieter bedrooms, double-pane windows, and proximity to quieter side streets.

Objection: Limited parking near 6th Ave businesses.

Response Strategy:

Highlight residential parking options, walkability, and alternative transit.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Strong; 6th Ave’s popularity and limited supply drive steady price growth.

Rental Demand

High, especially for updated homes and units near UPS or 6th Ave amenities.

Buyer Competition

Intense for well-priced homes; multiple offers common.

Best For

  • Young professionals
  • Investors
  • Families seeking walkability
  • First-time buyers

Potential Concerns

  • Older homes may need updates
  • Noise near nightlife
  • Limited parking in core

Professional Recommendations

1

Educate buyers on fast-paced market and need for strong offers.

2

Highlight walkability, amenities, and community events in marketing.

3

Network with local business owners for cross-promotion.

4

Stage homes to reflect urban, creative lifestyle.

5

Prepare sellers for multiple-offer scenarios and appraisal strategies.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Proctor District
  • North End
  • Central Tacoma

Market Positioning

Trendy, walkable, and community-focused urban neighborhood.

Competitive Advantages

  • More affordable than Proctor/North End
  • Superior walkability and nightlife
  • Eclectic, artsy vibe

Price Comparison

6th Ave median ($605K) is below Proctor ($650K+) and West End ($611K), above Central Tacoma ($490K).

Investment Metrics

4.5–5.5% (for well-located small multifamily or updated SFR rentals)
Cap Rates
5–6% gross yield (higher for duplexes/triplexes)
Rental Yields
17–20 (favorable for long-term hold)
Price-to-Rent
Positive for updated properties with strong rental demand.
Cash Flow
3–5% annual appreciation expected through 2026.
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Strong competition; focus on move-in ready homes or value-add opportunities. Be prepared for quick decisions and competitive offers.

Move-Up Buyers

Appealing for those seeking more space and walkability; limited inventory of larger homes.

Downsizers

Attractive for those wanting urban lifestyle and low maintenance, but may face competition from younger buyers.

Investors

High rental demand and appreciation; focus on properties near UPS or with ADU potential.

Relocators

Appealing due to lifestyle, amenities, and access to downtown and highways.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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