Gig Harbor or University Place: how do they compare?
They sit on opposite ends of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Gig Harbor (city population about 12,000 in 2020, with a much larger surrounding area) offers waterfront, view, and acreage homes and a harbor-front downtown, served by the Peninsula School District; Tacoma-bound commuters pay the bridge’s eastbound toll. University Place (about 34,900 in 2020) is a compact city on the Tacoma side with Chambers Bay, more condos and townhomes, and the University Place School District — and no toll to reach Tacoma, JBLM, or I-5. From July through September 2026, the residential median was $910,000 in Gig Harbor and $688,750 in University Place (NWMLS InfoSparks).
Gig Harbor and University Place are only a few miles apart across the Narrows, and buyers who love the water often consider both. But the bridge changes a lot — your commute, your costs, and the kind of home you’ll find.
Here’s an objective side-by-side. For more options, visit our Pierce County Relocation Hub and the Gig Harbor community page.
At a glance
| Gig Harbor | University Place | |
|---|---|---|
| Population (2020) | About 12,000 (city); larger peninsula area | About 34,900 |
| Median residential sale price (Jul–Sep 2026) | $910,000 | $688,750 |
| Median days on market (Jul–Sep 2026) | 19 | 17 |
| School district | Peninsula School District | University Place School District |
| Bridge toll to Tacoma | Yes, eastbound on the Narrows Bridge | No |
| Signature outdoors | The harbor, Cushman Trail, parks | Chambers Bay and Chambers Creek trails |
| Main housing | Single-family, view, waterfront, acreage, new construction | Single-family, condos, townhomes, view homes |
Housing differences
Gig Harbor
- Larger lots and acreage outside the city, often with septic and wells
- Waterfront and view homes around the harbor, Fox Island, and the peninsula
- Newer subdivisions and planned communities
- Higher median price, with a wide range
Here’s what to know about Gig Harbor waterfront properties.
University Place
- Established neighborhoods, many built from the 1950s through the 1990s
- Condos and townhomes, a good fit for lower-maintenance living
- View homes looking out over Puget Sound and the Narrows
- Mostly on public sewer, with smaller city lots
Read more about moving to University Place.
Commute and daily life
- To Tacoma, JBLM, or I-5: University Place has the shorter, toll-free trip. Gig Harbor commuters cross the Narrows on SR 16 and pay the eastbound toll.
- To Bremerton or the Kitsap Peninsula: Gig Harbor is closer via SR 16.
- Errands and services: Both have grocery, dining, and medical options. University Place is closer to Tacoma’s larger shopping areas.
- Outdoors: Gig Harbor centers on the harbor and boating. University Place has Chambers Bay’s trails, beach access, and golf course.
Which fits you?
| If you want… | Look closer at… |
|---|---|
| Acreage, shops, or a rural setting | Gig Harbor area |
| A toll-free commute to Tacoma or JBLM | University Place |
| A condo or townhome | University Place |
| Waterfront with boating access | Gig Harbor area |
| A lower median price | University Place |
Also weighing Tacoma or the Key Peninsula? See Gig Harbor vs. Tacoma and Gig Harbor vs. Key Peninsula.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gig Harbor more expensive than University Place?
Yes, on average. From July through September 2026, the NWMLS residential median was $910,000 for Gig Harbor and $688,750 for University Place. Prices in both vary widely by view, waterfront, and lot size.
Do you pay a toll to commute from Gig Harbor to Tacoma?
Yes. The Tacoma Narrows Bridge charges a toll eastbound, toward Tacoma. University Place is on the Tacoma side, so there’s no bridge toll for trips to Tacoma or JBLM.
What school districts serve Gig Harbor and University Place?
Gig Harbor is served by the Peninsula School District, and University Place by the University Place School District. Verify school assignment for a specific address with the district.
Does University Place have condos and townhomes?
Yes. University Place has more condos and townhomes than Gig Harbor, along with established single-family neighborhoods and view homes.
Are there homes with acreage in Gig Harbor?
Yes. Much of the greater Gig Harbor area outside city limits has larger lots and acreage, often with septic systems and private or shared wells.
Decide which side of the bridge fits
Gig Harbor and University Place both offer water, views, and a strong sense of place. Your commute, budget, and preferred home type will usually make the choice for you.
If you’re considering a move to Pierce County, text RELOCATE to 253-677-5765 for a personalized consultation covering neighborhoods, housing options, and what life here actually looks like.
About Josh Barnard
Josh Barnard is the founder of The Barnard Group and has spent over 20 years helping families navigate some of life’s biggest moments through real estate. Known for his “Work Hard. Be Kind.” approach, Josh combines expert market knowledge, innovative marketing, and genuine care to help homeowners make confident decisions about their next chapter. Whether someone is buying their first home, moving up, downsizing, or relocating to Pierce County, his mission is simple: serve people well, create unforgettable experiences, and help families build a life they love.
Market data: NWMLS InfoSparks, residential (Gig Harbor postal area; University Place), rolling three months ending September 2026. Population: 2020 U.S. Census. Researched October 26, 2026. Verify schools, utilities, and commute times for the exact address.
