Fife Apartments and Rentals

The town of Fife, Wash., was once a sleepy farming town, but over the years it has prospered into a bustling community offering a high quality of life. Now a hub for industrial and retail opportunities, many are attracted to the community. Located perfectly between Seattle and Tacoma, residents of Fife have the amenities of a metropolitan area without the hustle and bustle of living in one. Situated near Interstate 5, Fife provides residents with convenient access to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, the Port of Tacoma and on the edges of Pierce and King Counties. The centrally located community is family friendly with welcoming citizens and stunning scenery.

Fife apartments for rent are perfect for someone seeking a laidback atmosphere in a growing community. This could be one reason why the population of Fife has spiked in the past two decades. According to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, the population was less than 5,000 residents in 1990, but is now more than 9,200 people.

The first settlers in Pierce County were among the Nisqually, Puyallup, Squaxin, Steilacoom, and Muckleshoot tribes. They settled in the area because of the abundant food sources and many lakes and rivers. Pierce County was created after officials believed that Thurston County was far too large and needed to be divided into smaller counties. It was then that Pierce, King and Jefferson counties were created.

During the late 1800s, the lumber industry caused a boom in growth in the county, and many towns were founded because settlers opened up their own sawmills. However, during the depression of 1893, many Tacoma banks closed and William Fife, who was able to grow his fortune in the area, went bankrupt and fled the area. The prominent Tacoma lawyer was the head of the Washington National Guard, and was a Lieutenant Colonel in the field during the Philippine Insurrection.

Fife, named after him, was founded in 1957, and spans roughly 5.7 square miles between the Puyallup River and Puget Sound.

Centrally located Fife is an ideal place for students and workers. Since they have the opportunities available in Seattle and Tacoma at their fingertips, the options are virtually endless. Students living in apartments in Fife may attend school at Bates Technical College, Tacoma Community College, Green River Community College and City University of Seattle.

Some of the top local employers in nearby Tacoma include Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Multicare Health System, Franciscan Health System, Pierce County Government and Emerald Queen Casino. In Seattle, the top employers include Boeing, Microsoft, the University of Washington and Amazon.

Considering the scenic community and close proximity to both Seattle and Tacoma, the cost of living in Fife is relatively affordable. According to Best Places, the overall cost of living is 11 points higher than the national average, food is 8 points higher and utilities are 9 points lower. The average cost of rentals in Fife is fairly inexpensive, although it depends on the location and amenities one is looking for. According to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, the monthly median gross rent is $881. 

One of the most beloved attractions in Fife is the annual Harvest Festival. Since 2005, the festival has grown into the biggest community celebration with an estimated 5,000 visitors each year. The free event boasts a kid’s zone, live performances and countless art, craft and food vendors.

Another community event is the Walt’s Family Car Show. This free event displays unique cars old and new. Awards are given out to some of the best cars at the show and the family-friendly event is a unique one in the community.

Rent.com® can help you get settled in a Fife apartment. Look through our rental listings and find the perfect home for your needs.