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Eviction-Friendly Apartments in Tacoma, WA

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Renting After an Eviction in Tacoma

Tacoma offers more affordable rents than Seattle while sharing Washington's strong tenant protections. The state's eviction record sealing law, source-of-income protections, and Tacoma's own Rental Housing Code provide meaningful tools for renters with eviction histories. The city's diverse neighborhoods and proximity to JBLM create a dynamic rental market.

Washington Eviction Record Laws

Eviction Record Sealing
Available. Washington allows sealing of eviction records for dismissed cases and tenant victories.
Screening Lookback Period
Sealed records not accessible. Most landlords check 7 years.
Tenant Screening Restrictions
Washington has source-of-income protections. Tacoma has its own Rental Housing Code with tenant protections.

Housing Options in Tacoma After an Eviction

Likelihood indicates how likely each option is to accept applicants with eviction records.

TypeDescriptionLikelihood
Private individual landlordsTacoma has many privately owned rentals.high
LIHTC / affordable housingPierce County has affordable housing.moderate
Second-chance housingSome management companies accept tenants with barriers.moderate
Tacoma Housing AuthorityManages public housing and Section 8.low
Transitional housingTacoma Rescue Mission, Salvation Army, and Associated Ministries provide transitional housing.moderate
Room rentalsRoom rentals near UPS and TCC.high

Strategies for Renting with an Eviction in Tacoma

  1. 1.

    Petition to seal your eviction

    WA's sealing law applies. Contact Northwest Justice Project.

  2. 2.

    Use source-of-income protections

    WA landlords cannot refuse vouchers.

  3. 3.

    Focus on South Tacoma and Eastside

    South Tacoma, Eastside, and Hilltop have affordable private rentals.

  4. 4.

    Leverage military rental culture

    JBLM's proximity means landlords are accustomed to turnover.

  5. 5.

    Work with Tacoma Housing Authority programs

    THA provides housing assistance.

  6. 6.

    Explore Lakewood and Parkland

    Adjacent communities offer affordable options.

Local Housing Resources in Tacoma

Organizations that can help you find housing after an eviction.

Tacoma Housing Authority

Housing Authority

Manages public housing and Housing Choice Vouchers.

(253) 207-4400website

Northwest Justice Project — Tacoma

Legal Aid

Free legal services including record sealing.

(253) 272-8731website

211 Pierce County

Helpline

Dial 211 for housing referrals.

211

Tips for Renting with an Eviction in Tacoma

  • 1.Contact Northwest Justice Project for record sealing help.
  • 2.WA landlords cannot refuse vouchers.
  • 3.South Tacoma, Eastside, and Hilltop have affordable options.
  • 4.WA limits deposits to 1 month's rent.
  • 5.Consider Lakewood and Parkland for additional options.
  • 6.JBLM proximity means military-friendly landlords.
  • 7.Apply during winter for best selection.
  • 8.Tacoma is more affordable than Seattle.

Average Rent in Tacoma

$1,350

/month (1BR)

$1,650

/month (2BR)

With subsidized housing (LIHTC or Section 8), you typically pay 30% of your adjusted gross income — often significantly less than market rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent in Tacoma with an eviction?
Yes. WA's strong protections and Tacoma's affordable market help.
Can I seal my eviction in WA?
Yes. Contact Northwest Justice Project.
Does WA have source-of-income protections?
Yes.
Best areas?
South Tacoma, Eastside, Hilltop, and Lakewood.
Does THA accept applicants with evictions?
Reviewed individually.
Free legal help?
Northwest Justice Project.

Related Resources

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Helpful guides

Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Eviction laws, tenant screening practices, and housing availability change frequently. Always contact properties directly to confirm current policies. An eviction on your record does not automatically disqualify you from housing — many landlords evaluate applicants individually. For legal advice about your eviction record or tenant rights, contact a legal aid organization or a HUD-approved housing counselor.

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