The Tacoma Mall Won’t Exist in 10 Years (That’s a Good Thing)

Why the Future of Retail in Tacoma Looks a Lot More Like U-Village Than a Mall

Let’s get real: the Tacoma Mall, as we know it today, is living on borrowed time.

The indoor mall experience that dominated the early 2000s? It’s aging fast — and it’s no longer aligned with how consumers shop, explore, and spend their money. Here’s the hot take: within the next decade, the Tacoma Mall will be replaced by a more modern, walkable, outdoor retail concept that better fits the times. Think University Village in Seattle or outlet-style centers where people actually want to spend a day.

🧠 What’s Changing?

Consumer behavior. That’s what.

Today’s shoppers crave two things:

1. Experiences they can’t get online

2. Deals they can’t get on Amazon

People are still willing to drive — but only if what’s waiting on the other side feels worth it. And right now, the Tacoma Mall struggles to deliver on that.

Meanwhile, outdoor centers with exclusive, high-end brands, cool restaurants, and Instagram-worthy aesthetics are thriving. The model is simple: blend shopping, dining, and lifestyle into a walkable area. That’s what the Tacoma retail scene is missing, and that’s where we’re headed.

🏗️ What Would Replace It?

You won’t see the Tacoma Mall bulldozed overnight — but over time, expect to see:

• 🏞️ Open-air shopping promenades

• 🛍️ Premium outlet-style stores

• 🍽️ Destination dining and cafe experiences

• 🏢 Possibly even residential and mixed-use developments layered in

The land is valuable. And with south Tacoma poised for revitalization, the smart money is already shifting gears.

🚘 Why This Matters to Locals

Tacoma has always been a city on the edge of something bigger. This isn’t just about retail — it’s about the identity of the South Sound.

A major shift like this could:

• Boost property values around the area

• Create jobs through new construction and retail growth

• Draw more foot traffic from neighboring cities like Lakewood, University Place, and even Olympia

🧭 Final Thoughts

The Tacoma Mall might feel like a staple, but it’s no longer the anchor it once was. This is a city with big potential — and the future of retail here should reflect that. Whether you agree with this take or not, one thing’s for sure:

The next 10 years in Tacoma are going to look a whole lot different.

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🔗 For more hot takes, development scoops, and stories shaping the South Sound, follow @aaronthomaspnw and subscribe to the newsletter at southsoundreport.com