Is Gig Harbor Still Worth It in 2025? The Real Pros, Cons & Updates

It’s been 5 years since we filmed our original Pros & Cons of Gig Harbor and so much has changed. In this updated deep-dive, we break down the real experience of living in Gig Harbor in 2025:
• Small-town charm + big-box convenience
• Water access, boating perks… and boating pains
• Community events from Maritime Gig Fest to magical winters
• Traffic, school updates, and affordability
• Nightlife (or lack thereof), walkability, and overall lifestyle
• What newcomers love and what longtime locals still grumble about
So… is Gig Harbor still a dream town? We’re sharing our honest take.
If you’re thinking about moving here, have questions, or want local insight, drop a comment or stop by—our team is here to help you explore your options.

Key2see Team | REALTORS Jennifer Hawkins, CJ Stewart, Whitney Johnsen
From first to forever, let's find your home together
(253)229-1414 | [email protected]

00:00 – Intro: Gig Harbor Pros & Cons, 5 Years Later
Revisiting what’s changed, what’s the same, and what no one talks about.
00:29 – Small Town Charm + Big Town Perks
Walkable downtown, no chains, boutique vibe.
00:50 – Big Box Stores & Daily Conveniences
Target, Costco, Home Depot right up the hill.
01:03 – Water Activities & Lifestyle
Crabbing, fishing, paddle boarding, kayak clubs, sail school, boat camp.
01:48 – Water-Based Cons
Limited boat launches, no fuel in the harbor, marina waitlists, tie-up challenges.
03:30 – Community Vibe & Summer Events
Maritime Gig Festival, Blessing of the Fleet, Farmers Market, concerts.
02:50 – Fall & Winter Community Events
Sip & Stroll, Film Festival, Cider Swig, Halloween shutdown, boat parades, Christmas festivities.
05:17 – Gig Harbor’s Croatian Fishing History
Harbor History Museum and cultural roots.
06:05 – Con: Parking Challenges Downtown
Events = limited parking and shuttle reliance.
06:22 – Schools: Big Improvements
Bond-funded projects, new elementary schools, remodeled schools.
06:49 – School Con: High Schools Need Love
1980s time capsules, but strong test scores.
07:18 – Women’s Prison & Dog Training Program
Unique local feature that’s surprisingly beloved.
07:40 – Con: Limited Nightlife
Early closing hours, quiet harbor vibe.
08:09 – Crossing the Bridge for Options
Tacoma’s nightlife, comedy club, restaurants, tiki bar.
09:19 – Traffic: Getting Worse (But Still Mild)
Narrows Bridge delays, local rush hour, perspective from longtime locals.
09:48 – Narrows Bridge Toll Explained
One-way toll, GoodToGo rates, walking path.
10:15 – Ferries & Regional Commuting
Access to Seattle and Vashon Island.
11:00 – Pro: Tacoma Narrows Airport
Private flights, helicopter access.
11:18 – Cost of Living Overview
Why it’s hard to classify as pro or con.
11:33 – Housing Prices Breakdown (2025)
Gig Harbor median, state median, national median, pricing differences by area.
12:43 – Taxes: No State Income Tax + Low Property Taxes
Sales tax ranges, property tax comparison.
13:10 – Insurance Costs
Lower car/home insurance due to mild weather and slower driving.
14:01 – Pro: Utility Costs
Hydroelectric power, strong water table, natural gas, affordable rates.
14:40 – Con: High Gas Prices
Fuel costs compared to other states.
15:00 – Labor Shortage & Trades
Contractor/trades scarcity = higher costs.
15:19 – City Layout: No Master Plan
Organic development, inconsistent grid, diverse home styles.
16:20 – Con: Limited Cultural Diversity
Room for community growth.
16:30 – Weather: Four Seasons
Mild summers, gloomy winters, low snow, vitamin D talk.
17:12 – Outdoor Access
Mountains, snow sports, seasonal appreciation.
17:25 – Verdict: Dream Town or Overrated?
Pros outweigh the cons.
17:32 – Invitation to Viewers
Comment your pros/cons, visit the office, check “Why I Moved to Gig Harbor” videos.
18:10 – Blooper Moments & Wrap-Up