Relocating from the East

[suprbowl]

Greetings to all the PNW Zoners! Not sure if this belongs here or in the Travel etc. subject. My wife and I are relocating to Tacoma area at the end of November. Long in the works, but things have sped it up a little so I thought I would reach out for some pointers

- I'm a self employed painter, how's the economy? Better off with a 9-5 to start?

- Surf spots? Looking like 2.5 to 3 to the coast. Is that right?

- How is public access for flatwater on the Sound? It's hard to find in NY

Any other tips from locals would be much appreciated. Looking forward to meeting some of you Zoners.