TL;DR:
- JBLM offers a variety of nearby cities with different commute times, lifestyles, and amenities.
- Consider your priorities: commute time, cost of living, lifestyle, family needs, and amenities.
- Cities closest to JBLM: Lakewood, DuPont, and Spanaway (10-15 minutes).
- Cities with urban amenities: Tacoma and Olympia (20-25 minutes).
- Family-friendly options: Lacey and Puyallup (20-25 minutes).
Located in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) offers easy access to stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and charming towns. But with so many options, figuring out the best place to live near JBLM can feel overwhelming.
To help you decide, we’ll break down different cities and towns by commute distance and highlight the key features so you can find the best fit for your lifestyle and needs.
Factors to Consider When Exploring Towns Near JBLM
Before diving into online listings, take a moment to think about what really matters for you and your family. Figuring out where to live near JBLM isn’t just about being close to base; It’s about finding a community that matches your lifestyle and priorities.
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you figure out where to live if stationed at JBLM:
- Commute Time: There are a lot of cities within a 30-minute drive of JBLM under ideal traffic, but traffic patterns during peak hours can vary. Be sure to explore routes and use tools like Google Maps to get a realistic idea of commute times.
Keep in mind that I-5 is usually the shortest distance between cities in this area, but it might not be the shortest commute due to often unpredictable traffic. - Cost of Living: Housing prices and rental rates differ across cities and towns near JBLM. Compare your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) with average costs in the areas you’re considering.
- Lifestyle: Do you prefer the buzz of city life or the quiet of a rural area? Knowing what you want in your day-to-day life will help you narrow your options.
- Family Needs: If you have kids, consider schools, childcare, and family-friendly activities. Some cities near JBLM have great schools and family networks.
- Amenities: Think about access to shopping, healthcare, public transit, and entertainment.
Crime & Your Safety
At Operation RedDot, our top priority is being open and honest with our fellow veterans, service members, and their families. We want you to be safe.
One important thing to remember for those missing an adult or having a family member deployed is always to follow base regulations, be aware of your surroundings, and report any suspicious activity. Check for any wildlife before entering heavily wooded areas, and sign up for JBLM Alert notifications to receive updates on potential hazards or emergencies.
You can also check public safety resources to compare crime statistics in different communities near JBLM.
Cities Near JBLM by Commute Distance
Below are some of the best places to live near Joint Base Lewis-McChord , organized by commute distance in ideal traffic.
Lakewood (Just over 10 min)
Located just outside JBLM, Lakewood offers a mix of affordable housing options and convenient access to base. The city has several large parks, including American Lake Park for swimming, boating, and fishing. Residents have convenient access to major shopping centers like Lakewood Towne Center and medical facilities, along with quick connections to I-5 for commuting.
DuPont (About 15 min)
This small city combines small-town charm with modern amenities. Located on the Puget Sound, DuPont is perfect for outdoor activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. The Sequalitchew Creek Trail takes you right to the waterfront, and the city regularly hosts seasonal events that bring neighbors together. Newer neighborhoods with sidewalks and green spaces make it one of the most family-friendly communities near JBLM.
Spanaway (About 15 min)
If you want more space and a quieter setting, Spanaway is one of the towns near JBLM worth checking out. It’s close to Spanaway Lake Park and Sprinker Recreation Center, offering plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. The area has a mix of older homes and new builds, so you can find something that fits your style and budget.
Tacoma (About 20 min)
Tacoma is one of the largest cities near Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and it’s full of personality. From the Museum of Glass to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, there’s always something to do. The Ruston Way waterfront is great for dining with a view, and neighborhoods like North End and Proctor are known for their charm. South Tacoma offers more affordable housing closer to the base.
Puyallup (About 20 min)
Puyallup blends a small-town vibe with suburban convenience. Known for its historic downtown and the Washington State Fair, it’s also home to great schools, parks, and farmers markets. Highway 167 makes it easy to get to Tacoma or Seattle, and it’s a popular pick for those who want both community feel and accessibility.
Lacey (About 25 min)
Lacey is a short drive from base and has a reputation for being family-friendly. It’s packed with parks, lakes like Long Lake and Hicks Lake, and plenty of playgrounds. Housing ranges from affordable starter homes to modern builds and even waterfront properties. Being right next to Olympia also means more options for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Olympia (About 25 min)
Olympia, Washington’s capital, combines a unique mix of culture and outdoor beauty. Downtown is full of shops, art galleries, and restaurants, while the Olympia Farmers Market is a local favorite. With access to the Puget Sound and nearby trails, it’s a great spot for nature lovers. Housing includes historic homes, new developments, and everything in between
These are just a few of the many great places where you can live in Washington State near JBLM. Ultimately, the “best place” is subjective and depends entirely on your individual needs, priorities, and lifestyle.
Our local experts know these communities inside and out. Contact us today for personalized guidance and the latest real estate opportunities in this area.
Finding the Best Places to Live Near Joint Base Lewis-McChord
As you start this exciting journey, take time to explore neighborhoods, visit potential homes, and picture yourself in each community. Talk to locals, get a feel for the area, and see how each option fits your long-term goals.
When you’re ready to take the next step in your home search, remember that you don’t have to navigate this process alone.
At Operation Red Dot, we specialize in providing housing solutions for military families, veterans, and the communities that stand by them. We understand the unique challenges and time pressures of military life, and our team is here to help you find the perfect home near JBLM quickly and efficiently.