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 where 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 Choosing Where to Live
Before diving into online listings, take a moment to think about what really matters for you and your family. Finding the best place 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.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living around Washington State can vary. Factor in housing, utilities, and other expenses to find a place that fits your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and financial goals.
- 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 areas 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.
Take a look at this resource to find area-specific crime rates in the JBLM Area
Cities by Commute Distance
Let’s explore some of the best places to live near JBLM, categorized 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. You’ll find plenty of parks and recreational activities here, as well as a growing number of shopping and dining options.
DuPont (About 15 min)
This small city combines small-town charm with modern amenities. Located on Puget Sound, it’s ideal for outdoor activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. DuPont also features new housing developments and a strong community vibe.
Spanaway (About 15 min)
If you’re looking for a more rural vibe with larger lots and affordable housing, Spanaway could be a great choice. It offers a laid-back atmosphere and easy access to outdoor activities.
Tacoma (About 20 min)
If you’re after an urban vibe, Tacoma is a great pick. It has a thriving arts and culture scene, a revamped waterfront, and neighborhoods with a lot of character to explore.
Puyallup (About 20 min)
Famous for the Washington State Fair, Puyallup combines a rich history with a charming downtown. It offers a blend of suburban and rural living, great schools, and plenty of housing options.
Lacey (About 25 min)
If a short commute and a family-friendly atmosphere are top priorities, Lacey is an excellent choice. Lacey offers great schools, plenty of parks, and easy access to shopping and dining.
You’ll also find a variety of housing options here, from single-family homes to apartments.
Olympia (About 25 min)
Washington’s capital combines urban perks with natural beauty. You can stroll through downtown with its shops, restaurants, and cultural spots, or soak in the waterfront views and hit the nearby hiking trails.
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.
Finding Your Perfect Place
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 RedDot, 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.