TL;DR:
- Top Safe Neighborhoods: DuPont, Steilacoom, Lacey, Yelm, and Puyallup offer family-friendly living with good schools and low crime.
- Key Considerations: Check crime reports, visit at different times, and seek advice from other military families.
- Expert Help: Work with a military-friendly realtor like Operation Red Dot for a smooth transition.
Finding the right place to live is a top priority for military families stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). Safety, convenience, and a strong sense of community all play a role in choosing the perfect home. Fortunately, there are several safe neighborhoods near JBLM that offer low crime rates, excellent schools, and family-friendly amenities.
Whether you’re moving to the area for the first time or looking for a new home near the base, this guide will highlight some of the safest neighborhoods for military families. We’ll cover what makes these areas secure, their unique benefits, and tips for finding the best fit for your family’s needs.
Top JBLM Neighborhoods for Military Families
Here are some of the best neighborhoods near JBLM for military families, especially when it comes to safety.
1. DuPont
DuPont is one of the most popular JBLM neighborhoods for military families, and for good reason. It has a small-town feel with well-maintained parks, walking trails, and a tight-knit community.
Plus, it’s just minutes from the base, making for an easy commute. With top-rated schools and a reputation as one of the safest neighborhoods close to JBLM, DuPont is a great choice for military families. NeighborhoodScout backs this up, showing that residents see much lower violent crime rates than the national average.
2. Steilacoom
If you prefer a quieter setting with waterfront views, Steilacoom might be the perfect fit. This historic town has a strong community feel and is known for its safety.
The schools are excellent, and the crime rate is low, making it one of the safest neighborhoods near JBLM. According to CrimeGrade.org, Steilacoom ranks in the 64th percentile for safety, meaning its crime rate is lower than the national average. That adds up to a greater sense of security for residents compared to many other places.
It’s also a bit farther from the base than some other options, but the peaceful atmosphere makes up for the extra drive.
3. Lacey
Lacey is another great option for families looking for affordable housing without sacrificing safety. It’s also about a 20–30 minute commute to JBLM, depending on traffic. This growing city offers plenty of parks, shopping, and family-friendly activities.
The schools are strong, and many military families call Lacey home because of its safe, suburban feel.
Lacey ranks in the 62nd percentile for safety on CrimeGrade.org, meaning it’s safer than most cities in the U.S. In fact, 62% of cities have higher crime rates, making Lacey a better choice for those looking for a secure community.
4. Yelm
For those who enjoy a small-town vibe, Yelm is worth considering. It’s a little farther from JBLM, but the cost of living is lower, and it offers a great sense of community.
Yelm has been growing in popularity among military families thanks to its safe neighborhoods, good schools, and access to outdoor activities.
When it comes to safety, Yelm ranks in the 82nd percentile for safety, meaning it’s safer than most cities in the U.S. In fact, 82% of cities have higher crime rates, making Yelm a standout choice for a secure community.
5. Puyallup
Puyallup offers a great mix of suburban comfort and easy access to JBLM, making it a popular for military families. With a reasonable commute, the city has a variety of housing options, from established neighborhoods to new developments, fitting different budgets and lifestyles.
Safety is also a priority in Puyallup. CrimeGrade.org ranks it in the 77th percentile, meaning it’s safer than most U.S. cities. With many other cities having higher crime rates, Puyallup stands out as a secure and family-friendly place to call home.
How to Choose the Safest Neighborhoods in Washington State
Here are some tips to help you pick the best neighborhood near JBLM for your needs.
Check Crime Reports and Safety Ratings
Before settling on a neighborhood, look up local crime data and safety ratings.
Websites like NeighborhoodScout, CrimeGrade, and local police department reports can give you a clear picture of which areas are considered the safest.
Visit Neighborhoods at Different Times
A neighborhood may feel different depending on the time of day. Drive through potential JBLM neighborhoods in the morning, afternoon, and evening to get a sense of the overall atmosphere.
Talk to Other Military Families
Nobody knows JBLM living better than fellow service members and their families. Ask for recommendations on base, join local military spouse groups, or check online forums for insights into the best neighborhoods.
Work With a Military-Friendly Realtor
Working with a real estate agent who understands JBLM and military relocations can make the home-buying process much easier.
Experts like our military real estate agents at Operation RedDot specialize in helping military families find homes in the safest neighborhoods.
We take into account factors like commute time, resale value, and military housing benefits. Our experience with PCS moves and VA loans can help ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
Find Your Perfect Home
Finding the right place to live near Joint Base Lewis-McChord is about more than just location. It’s about finding a safe, welcoming community where your family can thrive.
Whether you’re drawn to the waterfront charm of Steilacoom, the suburban appeal of Lacey, or the convenience of Lakewood, there are plenty of safe neighborhoods to choose from.
Start your home-buying journey with us at Operation Red Dot. Our team specializes in helping military families find the best homes near JBLM, ensuring a smooth transition and a secure place to call home.