Tukwila is a suburban city in King County, Washington, United States, located immediately to the south of Seattle. The population was 21,798 at the 2020 census.

A large commercial center draws workers and consumers to the city daily; industry thrives with the confluence of rivers, freeways, railroads, and Seattle–Tacoma International Airport.

The earliest people in Tukwila were the Duwamish, who made their homes along the Black and Duwamish rivers. The name “Tukwila” is the Chinook Jargon word for “nut” or “hazelnut”, referring to the hazelnut trees that grew in the area. The Duwamish lived in cedar longhouses, hunted and fished, picked wild berries, and used the river for trade with neighboring peoples.

Tukwila’s location at the confluence of rivers, freeways and railroads has made it an important center of commerce. Approximately 45,000 people work in Tukwila. Westfield Southcenter (formerly Southcenter Mall), Puget Sound’s largest shopping complex, is located in the city, as well as a number of Boeing corporation facilities. 

Are you planning to move soon?

Moving Quote within few clicks! Instant Pricing!