Gig Harbor, WA Facts, Population, Income, Demographics, Economy

Population (total): Population in 2017: 9,507 (100% urban, 0% rural). >Population change since 2000: +47.1%

Population (male): 4,621

Population (female): 4,886

Median Rent: Median gross rent in 2017: $1,366.

Cost of Living: March 2019 cost of living index in Gig Harbor: 115.2 (more than average, U.S. average is 100)

Ancestries: Ancestries: German (16.5%), American (8.2%), Norwegian (6.6%), Scottish (6.1%), European (5.7%), English (4.8%).

Median Incomes:
      Estimated median household income in 2017: $80,424 (it was $43,456 in 2000)
      Estimated per capita income in 2017: $45,273 (it was $28,318 in 2000)
      Estimated median house or condo value in 2017: $444,667 (it was $194,200 in 2000) Gig Harbor:$444,667WA:$339,000

After the completion of the replacement bridge in 1950, Gig Harbor and the surrounding area quickly began to develop as a suburb of neighboring Tacoma. First, the area had substantial residential development as families retreated from Tacoma in favor of the tree-lined neighborhoods and waterfront lots available on the Gig Harbor Peninsula. What had once been summer cabins became primary residences for people who commuted daily over the bridge to Tacoma. Medium-sized housing development sprang up across the peninsula. The 1980s and 1990s had substantial retail development near State Route 16 to serve the growing residential population, shifting the economic center of Gig Harbor out of downtown. For some time, city leaders were unsure how to handle the growth while maintaining the character of the city. Ultimately, the city decided to aggressively annex the surrounding rural areas and convert them into high-density commercial and housing districts, forever changing the rural character of the area, but assuring that little new development happens in the historic downtown area, preserving its history and charm. By the 1970s, local merchants had begun actively promoting the downtown area for its historic value, and tourism became prominent on the list of economic engines in Gig Harbor. Today, downtown Gig Harbor is a very active place for tourists with shopping, dining, and recreation on every block. The last large swath of undeveloped waterfront property at the south end of downtown was recently developed into the headquarters of the Russell Foundation, named for George Russell, founder of Russell Financial.

Goldribbon

Recognitions and Certifications

Accredited Drug Testing has been recognized as one of the "Top 10 drug testing companies" for excellent customer service and we have received TPA Accreditation from the National Drug and Alcohol Screening Association. We are active in all drug testing industry associations and our staff are trained and certified as drug and alcohol testing specialists.

Important Links

National Drug and Alcohol Screening Association (https://ndasa.com/)

National Drug Free Workplace Alliance (https://www.ndwa.org/)

Substance Abuse Program Administrators Association (https://www.sapaa.com/)

Substance Abuse Mental Health Safety Administration (https://www.samhsa.gov/)

US Drug Enforcement Administration (https://www.dea.gov/)

Office of Drug alcohol Policy Control (https://www.transportation.gov/odapc)

DNA Testing

DNA Testing Gig Harbor

Paternity DNA Testing Immigration DNA Testing Relationship DNA Testing

Accredited Drug Testing Inc (ADT) provides DNA testing Gig Harbor using certified DNA collection specialists and nationally accredited AABB Laboratories for all DNA testing Gig Harbor needs which will insure the highest accuracy for DNA testing Gig Harbor results. DNA testing Gig Harbor centers are usually located within minutes of your home or office and the entire process to schedule and conduct a DNA test is Fast, Easy and Confidential.

To schedule a DNA testing Gig Harbor location call (800) 221-4291.

Accredited Drug Testing provides DNA testing in all cities throughout the State and in the event the parties for the DNA test are located in different cities or States, Accredited Drug Testing will coordinate and schedule all of the DNA tests to ensure that all parties are accommodated in a convenient manner. As an example if the mother and child are in one city, but the alleged father is in another, we will contact all parties to schedule the DNA test at a convenient location and time and report the results back to the authorized parties.

Accredited Drug Testing takes the stress, out of a stressful situation!

DNA testing Gig Harbor centers are available to assist you in finding the answers you need, call (800)221-4291 to schedule a DNA test appointment.

The Accredited Drug Testing, DNA testing Gig Harbor staff are committed to providing convenient, compassionate and confidential DNA testing Gig Harbor services which will give you personalized customer service and will assist you in making these very important decisions, Call (800)221-4291 and speak to a DNA specialist.

Legal or NON-Legal DNA Tests

At times persons in need of a DNA test will look for the cheapest method or a home DNA kit, however a cheap or "do it yourself" DNA test many times are not accurate or will stand a legal challenge or can successfully defend a legal challenge in a court of law. Not all laboratory's or DNA testing centers are equal. Accredited Drug Testing only uses DNA testing Gig Harbor qualified and certified testing centers and nationally recognized DNA testing Gig Harbor laboratories.

When scheduling a DNA test regardless of the purpose, Accredited Drug Testing recommends always utilizing a legal DNA test procedure for current or future use. A legal DNA test has very specific Chain of Custody test procedures which insures that the DNA test results can be used in a legal proceeding. A non-legal DNA test will provide the results, but cannot be used in any type of legal matter. When conducting a legal DNA test all parties must present a valid form of identification, photographs will be taken of all parties, legal guardian documentation and or birth certificates of any minor children may be required. These procedures for a legal DNA test insure that should the DNA test results be used in a legal proceeding, the chain of custody is carefully followed and no challenge to the results can be successfully made, that's why it's always best to schedule a legal DNA test.

DNA testing can be used for the following purposes

  • Birth Certificate Modification
  • Child Support
  • Child Custody
  • Adoption
  • Wills/Insurance
  • Immigration

DNA Paternity Testing Gig Harbor

A DNA test for paternity purposes determines the biological father of a child. Every human inherits specific DNA from both biological parents, half from the mother and half from the father. A DNA test examines a child's DNA pattern with that of a alleged father to determine if the child and the alleged father have the same DNA. Results of a properly administered DNA test utilizing a AABB accredited laboratory are 99.9% accurate. While DNA paternity testing maybe stressful for some parties involved, Accredited Drug Testing is committed to making the entire DNA paternity testing experience, professional, convenient, confidential and Stress Free.

Establishing a biological relationship is important and has many benefits including

  • Medical history for the child
  • Establishing legal, custodial and inheritance claims
  • Enhances the family unit and bond between father and other family members

When administering a DNA test to a child/minor, the legal guardian must be present and provide authorization for the DNA test to be conducted. The legal guardian can be the mother, father or other natural or court ordered person who has legal decision making authority over the minor child.

DNA Immigration Testing

DNA testing can be used for reasons relating to immigration and the biological relationship between a petitioner and affiliated individual. DNA immigration testing can be used for paternity tests, maternity tests, sibling relationship and other purposes required by the U.S Department of State. Accredited Drug Testing will coordinate the entire process, including scheduling the DNA test for parties located in the United States and forward the DNA collection kit to the U.S Embassy located in a foreign country where the other party is located. Once the DNA collection has occurred at one of our testing centers in the U.S and at the U.S Embassy where the other parties are located, Accredited Drug Testing will ensure that all specimens are sent to the lab for DNA testing and provide the results once the AABB laboratory has analyzed the DNA test.

What is a DNA test?

A DNA test is a procedure to determine if exact biological characteristics exist in one person's DNA and those exact same DNA characteristics in another person's DNA makeup. As humans each of us have different DNA makeup, however parents and children have the same DNA, siblings from the same parents have the same DNA and grandparents have the same DNA as grandchildren. A DNA test is a non-intrusive procedure usually utilizing a oral swab from all parties, which then follows a specific chain of custody process in which the oral swab specimens are sent to a certified and accredited AABB laboratory. The Laboratory than analyzes the DNA specimen and provides the results. DNA test results are 99.9% accurate.

AABB Laboratory Accreditation information - Click Here

How to schedule a DNA Testing Gig Harbor?

It's simple, contact Accredited Drug Testing at (800)221-4291, and provide various information including the city you wish to take the DNA test, who will be taking the DNA test, mother, child and alleged father. When the parties are available to take the DNA test (Accredited Drug Testing will schedule the appointment with each available party). Once the results are received from the AABB laboratory Accredited Drug Testing will forward the results by email and U.S Mail (Hard Copy) to all authorized parties.

How long does it take for DNA test results?

Once all parties have completed the DNA test collection, the specimens are immediately sent to the certified AABB laboratory and results are usually available in 3-5 business days.

On-Site/Mobile DNA Testing Gig Harbor

We come to you!, Accredited Drug Testing can provide on-site/mobile DNA testing at your home, office, hospital or other location. (Additional on-site fees may apply)

4700 POINT FOSDICK DR NW STE 210 2.0 miles

4700 POINT FOSDICK DR NW STE 210
GIG HARBOR, WA 98335
Categories: GIG HARBOR WA

11567 CANTERWOOD BLVD NW 2.9 miles

11567 CANTERWOOD BLVD NW
GIG HARBOR, WA 98332
Categories: GIG HARBOR WA

1812 S MILDRED ST STE F 6.2 miles

1812 S MILDRED ST STE F
TACOMA, WA 98465
Categories: TACOMA WA

14473 CLAYTON RD SE 6.5 miles

14473 CLAYTON RD SE
PORT ORCHARD, WA 98367
Categories: PORT ORCHARD WA

S 19th St And W Union Ave 7.5 miles

S 19th St And W Union Ave
TACOMA, WA 98405
Categories: TACOMA WA

1901 S UNION AVE STE A-203 7.5 miles

1901 S UNION AVE STE A-203
TACOMA, WA 98405
Categories: TACOMA WA

3401 S 19TH ST STE 220 7.6 miles

3401 S 19TH ST STE 220
TACOMA, WA 98405
Categories: TACOMA WA

1901 South Union, Suite B3005 7.6 miles

1901 South Union, Suite B3005
Tacoma, WA 98405
Categories: Tacoma WA

3124 S 19TH ST BLDG C STE 110 7.7 miles

3124 S 19TH ST BLDG C STE 110
TACOMA, WA 98405
Categories: TACOMA WA

702 BROADWAY STE 102 8.2 miles

702 BROADWAY STE 102
TACOMA, WA 98402
Categories: TACOMA WA

2624 S 38TH ST 8.4 miles

2624 S 38TH ST
TACOMA, WA 98409
Categories: TACOMA WA

1717 S J ST 8.4 miles

1717 S J ST
TACOMA, WA 98405
Categories: TACOMA WA

1123 PACIFIC AVE 8.5 miles

1123 PACIFIC AVE
TACOMA, WA 98402
Categories: TACOMA WA

1930 PORT OF TACOMA RD 9.7 miles

1930 PORT OF TACOMA RD
TACOMA, WA 98421
Categories: TACOMA WA

2818 SW 327TH ST 9.9 miles

2818 SW 327TH ST
FEDERAL WAY, WA 98023
Categories: FEDERAL WAY WA

5920 100th Street SW, Suite 29 11.6 miles

5920 100th Street SW, Suite 29
Lakewood, WA 98499
Categories: Lakewood WA

5700 100TH ST SW STE 510 11.7 miles

5700 100TH ST SW STE 510
LAKEWOOD, WA 98499
Categories: LAKEWOOD WA

4703 PACIFIC HWY E 11.7 miles

4703 PACIFIC HWY E
FIFE, WA 98424
Categories: FIFE WA

502 54TH AVE E 11.7 miles

502 54TH AVE E
FIFE, WA 98424
Categories: FIFE WA

33440 1ST WAY S STE 103 11.8 miles

33440 1ST WAY S STE 103
FEDERAL WAY, WA 98003
Categories: FEDERAL WAY WA

720 S 320th Street, Suite B 12.0 miles

720 S 320th Street, Suite B
Federal Way, WA 98003
Categories: Federal Way WA

1300 S 320TH ST 12.4 miles

1300 S 320TH ST
FEDERAL WAY, WA 98003
Categories: FEDERAL WAY WA

11315 BRIDGEPORT WAY SW 12.6 miles

11315 BRIDGEPORT WAY SW
LAKEWOOD, WA 98499
Categories: LAKEWOOD WA

34616 South 347th Place, Suite 2 12.8 miles

34616 South 347th Place, Suite 2
Federal Way, WA 98003
Categories: Federal Way WA

10 E WESTLAKE PL 12.9 miles

10 E WESTLAKE PL
ALLYN, WA 98524
Categories: ALLYN WA

250 SW 193RD PL 13.2 miles

250 SW 193RD PL
NORMANDY PARK, WA 98166
Categories: NORMANDY PARK WA

450 S KITSAP BLVD STE 144 13.8 miles

450 S KITSAP BLVD STE 144
PORT ORCHARD, WA 98366
Categories: PORT ORCHARD WA

15870 1ST AVE S Ste 101 14.7 miles

15870 1ST AVE S Ste 101
BURIEN, WA 98148
Categories: BURIEN WA

2529 S 194TH ST 14.8 miles

2529 S 194TH ST
SEATAC, WA 98188
Categories: SEATAC WA

15500 1ST AVE S STE 106A 14.8 miles

15500 1ST AVE S STE 106A
BURIEN, WA 98148
Categories: BURIEN WA

128 WASHINGTON AVE N 16.0 miles

128 WASHINGTON AVE N
KENT, WA 98032
Categories: KENT WA

18012 W VALLEY HWY STE 101 16.0 miles

18012 W VALLEY HWY STE 101
KENT, WA 98032
Categories: KENT WA

202 N DIVISION ST 16.5 miles

202 N DIVISION ST
AUBURN, WA 98001
Categories: AUBURN WA

1 E MAIN ST STE 130 16.5 miles

1 E MAIN ST STE 130
AUBURN, WA 98002
Categories: AUBURN WA

532 5TH ST STE 19 16.6 miles

532 5TH ST STE 19
BREMERTON, WA 98337
Categories: BREMERTON WA

202 CROSS ST SE 16.6 miles

202 CROSS ST SE
AUBURN, WA 98002
Categories: AUBURN WA

230 AUBURN WAY S STE B 16.7 miles

230 AUBURN WAY S STE B
AUBURN, WA 98002
Categories: AUBURN WA

800 S Meridian, Suite B 16.7 miles

800 S Meridian, Suite B
Puyallup, WA 98371
Categories: Puyallup WA

19032 62ND AVE S 16.7 miles

19032 62ND AVE S
KENT, WA 98032
Categories: KENT WA

222 STATE AVE N 16.8 miles

222 STATE AVE N
KENT, WA 98032
Categories: KENT WA

6642 S 193RD PL STE N107 16.9 miles

6642 S 193RD PL STE N107
KENT, WA 98032
Categories: KENT WA

1011 E Main, Suite 301 16.9 miles

1011 E Main, Suite 301
Puyallup, WA 98372
Categories: Puyallup WA

407 14TH AVE SE 17.1 miles

407 14TH AVE SE
PUYALLUP, WA 98372
Categories: PUYALLUP WA

13030 MILITARY RD S STE 100 17.2 miles

13030 MILITARY RD S STE 100
TUKWILA, WA 98168
Categories: TUKWILA WA

12844 MILITARY RD S 17.2 miles

12844 MILITARY RD S
TUKWILA, WA 98168
Categories: TUKWILA WA

1450 5TH ST SE STE 1500 17.2 miles

1450 5TH ST SE STE 1500
PUYALLUP, WA 98372
Categories: PUYALLUP WA

3850 S MERIDIAN 17.6 miles

3850 S MERIDIAN
PUYALLUP, WA 98373
Categories: PUYALLUP WA

2528 WHEATON WAY STE 202 17.7 miles

2528 WHEATON WAY STE 202
BREMERTON, WA 98310
Categories: BREMERTON WA

2601 Cherry Avenue, Suite 206 17.7 miles

2601 Cherry Avenue, Suite 206
Bremerton, WA 98310
Categories: Bremerton WA

818 39TH AVE SW ste A2 17.7 miles

818 39TH AVE SW ste A2
PUYALLUP, WA 98373
Categories: PUYALLUP WA

200 ANDOVER PARK E STE 8 17.8 miles

200 ANDOVER PARK E STE 8
TUKWILA, WA 98188
Categories: TUKWILA WA

1412 SW 43rd Street, Suite 101 17.9 miles

1412 SW 43rd Street, Suite 101
Renton, WA 98057
Categories: Renton WA

24031 104TH AVE SE 18.1 miles

24031 104TH AVE SE
KENT, WA 98030
Categories: KENT WA

6720 FORT DENT WAY STE 110 18.1 miles

6720 FORT DENT WAY STE 110
TUKWILA, WA 98188
Categories: TUKWILA WA

1005 185TH STREET CT E 18.3 miles

1005 185TH STREET CT E
SPANAWAY, WA 98387
Categories: SPANAWAY WA

3908 10TH ST SE 18.5 miles

3908 10TH ST SE
PUYALLUP, WA 98374
Categories: PUYALLUP WA

3600 LIND AVE SW STE 170 18.6 miles

3600 LIND AVE SW STE 170
RENTON, WA 98057
Categories: RENTON WA

400 S 43RD ST 18.8 miles

400 S 43RD ST
RENTON, WA 98055
Categories: RENTON WA

10209 136TH ST E 19.1 miles

10209 136TH ST E
PUYALLUP, WA 98374
Categories: PUYALLUP WA

2414 SW ANDOVER ST STE E130 19.4 miles

2414 SW ANDOVER ST STE E130
SEATTLE, WA 98106
Categories: SEATTLE WA

650 S ORCAS ST STE 125 19.4 miles

650 S ORCAS ST STE 125
SEATTLE, WA 98108
Categories: SEATTLE WA

17709 108TH AVE SE 19.6 miles

17709 108TH AVE SE
RENTON, WA 98055
Categories: RENTON WA

304 MAIN AVE S STE 202 20.4 miles

304 MAIN AVE S STE 202
RENTON, WA 98057
Categories: RENTON WA

3223 1ST AVE S STE C 20.5 miles

3223 1ST AVE S STE C
SEATTLE, WA 98134
Categories: SEATTLE WA

4515 Martin Luther King Jr Way S #200 20.9 miles

4515 Martin Luther King Jr Way S #200
Seattle, WA 98108
Categories: Seattle WA

11102 Sunrise Boulevard E, Suite 105 21.3 miles

11102 Sunrise Boulevard E, Suite 105
Puyallup, WA 98374
Categories: Puyallup WA

1737 AIRPORT WAY S STE 200 21.6 miles

1737 AIRPORT WAY S STE 200
SEATTLE, WA 98134
Categories: SEATTLE WA

1400 S JACKSON ST STE 24 22.4 miles

1400 S JACKSON ST STE 24
SEATTLE, WA 98144
Categories: SEATTLE WA

509 OLIVE WAY STE 1664 22.6 miles

509 OLIVE WAY STE 1664
SEATTLE, WA 98101
Categories: SEATTLE WA

1100 9TH AVE 22.6 miles

1100 9TH AVE
SEATTLE, WA 98101
Categories: SEATTLE WA

1800 NW MYHRE RD 22.7 miles

1800 NW MYHRE RD
SILVERDALE, WA 98383
Categories: SILVERDALE WA

420 Lilly Road NE, Suite 101 22.8 miles

420 Lilly Road NE, Suite 101
Olympia, WA 98506
Categories: Olympia WA

1229 MADISON ST STE 610 22.8 miles

1229 MADISON ST STE 610
SEATTLE, WA 98104
Categories: SEATTLE WA

500 17TH AVE 22.9 miles

500 17TH AVE
SEATTLE, WA 98122
Categories: SEATTLE WA

9621 RIDGETOP BLVD NW 22.9 miles

9621 RIDGETOP BLVD NW
SILVERDALE, WA 98383
Categories: SILVERDALE WA

610 1st Ave North 23.0 miles

610 1st Ave North
Seattle, WA 98109
Categories: Seattle WA

550 17TH AVE STE 200 23.0 miles

550 17TH AVE STE 200
SEATTLE, WA 98122
Categories: SEATTLE WA

1151 DENNY WAY 23.0 miles

1151 DENNY WAY
SEATTLE, WA 98109
Categories: SEATTLE WA

1512 Broadway 23.1 miles

1512 Broadway
Seattle, WA 98122
Categories: Seattle WA

803 20TH AVE 23.2 miles

803 20TH AVE
SEATTLE, WA 98122
Categories: SEATTLE WA

10513 SILVERDALE WAY NW STE 104 23.2 miles

10513 SILVERDALE WAY NW STE 104
SILVERDALE, WA 98383
Categories: SILVERDALE WA

3928 PACIFIC AVE SE 23.3 miles

3928 PACIFIC AVE SE
LACEY, WA 98503
Categories: LACEY WA

Handy Resources

Comprehensive Online Resources for Drug Testing

  1. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

    Provides comprehensive information on drug testing and its role in substance use disorder treatment.

  2. FDA: Drug Testing

    Explains the FDA's role and regulations concerning drug testing for consumers.

  3. PDR.net

    Provides detailed drug information and safety updates through a mobile-friendly platform.

  4. BeSafeRx - FDA

    Resource by the FDA to help consumers identify and choose safe online pharmacies.

  5. SAMHSA: Drug Testing Resources for the Workplace

    Resources and guidelines for drug testing in the workplace.

  6. Drugs.com

    Provides drug information, side effects, and interactions for consumers and professionals.

  7. Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST)

    Online version of the DAST to help individuals assess whether they have a drug problem.

  8. Merck Manuals

    Consumer-friendly medical resource providing comprehensive information on a wide array of health topics, including drug testing.

  9. SAMHSA Store

    Provides access to resources and publications on substance use prevention and treatment.

  10. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)

    Information on state boards of pharmacy and regulations, including those related to drug testing.

  11. CDC: Workplace Health Promotion

    CDC's resources on substance use and drug testing in the workplace.

  12. Mayo Clinic: Drug Testing

    General information about the procedures and types of drug tests.

  13. MedlinePlus: Drug Testing

    Offers information about various drug tests and their uses in medical diagnosis and treatment.

  14. University of Rochester Medical Center Health Encyclopedia

    Provides a detailed entry on drug testing, including how tests are conducted and what they detect.

  15. World Health Organization (WHO)

    International guidelines and information on public health, including substance abuse and drug testing.

  16. Healthline: Drug Testing

    Consumer health site offering information on how drug tests work and what they look for.

  17. WebMD: Drug Testing

    Provides a patient-oriented overview of drug testing and its purposes.

  18. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)

    Provides a vast database of scientific studies, including research on drug testing and its effectiveness.

AI Overview

Overview of DNA Testing

DNA testing is a sophisticated scientific method used to analyze genetic material from an individual to discover genetic information that can influence health, ancestry, and personal characteristics. It has revolutionized fields such as medicine, forensics, and genealogy by providing deep insights into genetic backgrounds and health predispositions.

Common Types of DNA Testing

  • Medical Genetic Testing: Identifies changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins to confirm or rule out a suspected genetic condition or help determine a person's chance of developing or passing on a genetic disorder.
  • Ancestral DNA Testing: Analyzes DNA to provide insights into one’s ethnic background and ancestral origins, often revealing geographical and migratory histories of ancestors.
  • Forensic DNA Testing: Focuses on identifying individuals based on their unique genetic makeup for criminal investigations or legal matters such as paternity tests.

Benefits of DNA Testing

DNA testing offers a range of benefits:

  1. Enhanced Medical Understanding: Helps in understanding genetic diseases and can lead to more effective treatment and prevention strategies.
  2. Personal Ancestry Insights: Provides a deeper understanding of one's roots and personal history related to ethnic groups and migration patterns.
  3. Assistance in Forensic Investigations: Essential in solving crimes, identifying perpetrators or victims, and resolving civil disputes.

Challenges and Considerations in DNA Testing

While DNA testing provides valuable insights, it comes with challenges:

  • Ethical Issues: Genetic testing raises ethical questions, particularly concerning privacy, consent, and the right to not know genetic information.
  • Accuracy and Interpretation: Results can sometimes be inconclusive or misinterpreted, requiring careful consideration and potentially further testing.
  • Psychological Impact: Discovering genetic information can be distressing and have significant emotional impacts on individuals and families.

Choosing the Right DNA Test

When considering a DNA test, it is important to:

  1. Select the Appropriate Test: Choose a test that suits your specific needs, whether for health, ancestry, or legal purposes.
  2. Consider Privacy Policies: Understand how your genetic information will be used, stored, and shared.
  3. Seek Professional Guidance: Consult healthcare professionals or genetic counselors to help interpret results accurately and responsibly.

In conclusion, DNA testing offers profound insights but requires careful consideration of ethical issues, potential emotional impacts, and the challenges of dealing with complex genetic information. With the right approach and professional support, it can provide invaluable benefits.

ScheduleButton CityPagesV2 300x88

When you need a test, choose the best!

Alcohol Testing Gig Harbor, WA Services

(800) 221-4291

For more information regarding the effects of drug abuse - Click Here

For more information on a drug free work place - Click Here

Local Area Info: Gig Harbor, Washington

Gig Harbor is one of several cities and towns that claim to be "the gateway to the Olympic Peninsula". Due to its close access to several state and city parks, and historic waterfront that includes boutiques and fine dining, it has become a popular tourist destination. Gig Harbor is located along State Route 16, about 6 mi (10 km) from its origin at Interstate 5, over the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. A $1.2 billion project to add a second span to the bridge was completed in 2007. From Gig Harbor, Tacoma can be reached in just under 20 minutes and Seattle in just under an hour.

During a heavy storm in 1840, Captain Charles Wilkes brought the captain's gig (small boat) into the harbor for protection. Later, with the publication of Wilkes 1841 map of the Oregon Territory, he named the sheltered bay Gig Harbor.

Gig Harbor was officially incorporated on July 12, 1946. Commercial fishing, boat building, and logging dominated the economy until the construction of the first Tacoma Narrows Bridge in 1940. Until then, the primary method of transportation between Gig Harbor and the economic center of nearby Tacoma was by steamship. Starting in 1836, steamships started plying the waters of Puget Sound and quickly developed into what was eventually dubbed the "Mosquito Fleet". Gig Harbor, isolated from Tacoma and Seattle by Puget Sound and the Tacoma Narrows, could not be reached by automobile or horseback except by a very long and arduous trip south around Puget Sound and Hammersly Inlet. The boom was to be short lived, as the first bridge collapsed just months after it was completed. The resource demands of World War II prevented another bridge from being built until 1950. Between the time when the first bridge collapsed and when the second bridge was completed, a state-run ferry service delivered drivers directly into downtown Gig Harbor. Remains of the ferry dock can still be seen just outside the mouth of the harbor at the southeast end of Harborview Drive. The area has been turned into a small park, where the public can see a panoramic view of the Cascade Mountains, Point Defiance, and Mount Rainier.

Show Regional Data

Population (total): Population in 2017: 9,507 (100% urban, 0% rural). >Population change since 2000: +47.1%

Population (male): 4,621

Population (female): 4,886

Median Rent: Median gross rent in 2017: $1,366.

Cost of Living: March 2019 cost of living index in Gig Harbor: 115.2 (more than average, U.S. average is 100)

Ancestries: Ancestries: German (16.5%), American (8.2%), Norwegian (6.6%), Scottish (6.1%), European (5.7%), English (4.8%).

Median Incomes:
      Estimated median household income in 2017: $80,424 (it was $43,456 in 2000)
      Estimated per capita income in 2017: $45,273 (it was $28,318 in 2000)
      Estimated median house or condo value in 2017: $444,667 (it was $194,200 in 2000) Gig Harbor:$444,667WA:$339,000

After the completion of the replacement bridge in 1950, Gig Harbor and the surrounding area quickly began to develop as a suburb of neighboring Tacoma. First, the area had substantial residential development as families retreated from Tacoma in favor of the tree-lined neighborhoods and waterfront lots available on the Gig Harbor Peninsula. What had once been summer cabins became primary residences for people who commuted daily over the bridge to Tacoma. Medium-sized housing development sprang up across the peninsula. The 1980s and 1990s had substantial retail development near State Route 16 to serve the growing residential population, shifting the economic center of Gig Harbor out of downtown. For some time, city leaders were unsure how to handle the growth while maintaining the character of the city. Ultimately, the city decided to aggressively annex the surrounding rural areas and convert them into high-density commercial and housing districts, forever changing the rural character of the area, but assuring that little new development happens in the historic downtown area, preserving its history and charm. By the 1970s, local merchants had begun actively promoting the downtown area for its historic value, and tourism became prominent on the list of economic engines in Gig Harbor. Today, downtown Gig Harbor is a very active place for tourists with shopping, dining, and recreation on every block. The last large swath of undeveloped waterfront property at the south end of downtown was recently developed into the headquarters of the Russell Foundation, named for George Russell, founder of Russell Financial.

(800) 221-4291