Considering the University of Washington, Tacoma weather? Located in Tacoma, this Pacific Northwest gem offers a mild maritime climate ideal for outdoor activities and focused studies, though frequent rain shapes daily life. Average annual temperatures hover around 52°F (11°C), with summers reaching 75°F (24°C) and winters rarely dipping below 40°F (4°C). Precipitation totals about 40 inches yearly, mostly from October to March, influencing everything from campus commutes to utility bills. Environmental factors like good air quality and proximity to Puget Sound enhance liveability, but natural hazards such as earthquakes and flooding require awareness. Our ratings highlight temperature comfort at 4/5 stars and overall liveability at 4/5, helping students, faculty, staff, parents, and job seekers decide if Tacoma suits them. Explore higher-ed-jobs at University of Washington, Tacoma while planning your move to this vibrant area. AcademicJobs.com provides insights into academic jobs in Tacoma, Washington university opportunities, and jobs across the United States.
The weather at University of Washington, Tacoma features mild temperatures year-round, with an annual average of 52°F (11°C). Summers are pleasant with highs of 75°F (24°C) and low humidity, perfect for campus events. Winters bring cooler 47°F (8°C) averages and frequent rain, totaling 40 inches annually. Extremes include a record high of 93°F (34°C) and low of 0°F (-18°C). This climate supports comfortable studying but requires preparation for wet conditions. Faculty and students appreciate the lack of extreme heat or cold, though overcast skies can affect mood. Check Rate My Professor reviews from University of Washington, Tacoma for how locals adapt.
Temperatures rise from 45°F (7°C) to 60°F (16°C), with increasing rain (4-5 inches/month). University schedules outdoor orientations; students need rain jackets. Extra costs: $50-100 for layered clothing.
Highs of 70-75°F (21-24°C), dry with <1 inch precip/month. Ideal for hiking near campus; minimal AC needs keep utilities low at $100/month.
Cools to 50-60°F (10-16°C), rain ramps up to 6 inches/month. Leaves color campus; boots essential for wet paths, adding $75 insurance for gear.
Averages 45°F (7°C), 5-6 inches rain/month, rare snow. University activates snow protocols; prepare with waterproof boots ($80) and higher heating bills ($150/month).
Safety tip: Follow University of Washington, Tacoma alerts for windstorms. Higher-ed career advice includes relocation tips for rainy climates.
Tacoma sits at sea level near Puget Sound, with stable geology but earthquake-prone due to Cascadia fault. Air quality is good, averaging AQI 40, thanks to ocean breezes dispersing pollutants. Low pollution density supports health for University of Washington, Tacoma commuters. University provides indoor air monitors and green spaces. Compare to Tacoma environment trends.
| Hazard | Frequency | University Protocols |
|---|---|---|
| Earthquakes | Moderate (every 10-20 yrs significant) | Drop-cover-hold drills, evacuation to fields |
| Flooding | Annual minor, major every 5-10 yrs | Flood barriers, class cancellations |
| Wildfire Smoke | Summer occasional | Indoor advisories, masks provided |
| Tsunami/Lahar | Rare (centuries) | Vertical evac plans, alerts via app |
Low drought risk. Access Rate My Professor at University of Washington, Tacoma for student safety experiences.
These ratings aid job seekers eyeing university salaries in Tacoma. Students note rain boosts cozy study vibes; see Rate My Professor.
Expect $200-300/year extra for rain gear, boots, and jackets. Winter utilities rise $50/month for heating. No major AC costs. Earthquake insurance adds $500/year. Equip with umbrellas, waterproof backpacks. Shop locally or via free resume templates for budgeting jobs. Link to higher-ed-jobs for income to cover.
Rainy weather promotes vitamin D supplements; university wellness centers offer free checks. Good air reduces respiratory issues. Campus shuttles handle wet commutes. Liveability supports biking in dry months. Parents appreciate low extreme weather health risks. Read student perspectives on University of Washington, Tacoma environment via Rate My Professor.
Many students at University of Washington, Tacoma discuss how the local climate impacts focus and productivity; the mild temperatures encourage outdoor study sessions in summer, but persistent rain in winter leads to cabin fever for some, prompting cozy library habits. Faculty note the environment fosters resilience, with fresh air enhancing lectures. Read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor. Job seekers value the liveability for work-life balance in Washington academic jobs.
