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Lakewood, WA Real Estate & Lifestyle

Overview of Lakewood Living for Military Families

Patriotic picnic for military personel and their families in Lakewood, WA

Lakewood, WA, is a favorite spot for military families, thanks to its quick access to Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), scenic lakes, and a mix of shops and dining. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy suburban comfort without losing the perks of nearby city life.

At Operation Red Dot, we help families find homes for sale in Lakewood, WA, sell homes, secure rentals, and explore neighborhoods that fit their lifestyle and budget. We also offer property management services to help homeowners keep their investments in good hands while they’re away.

School Quality and District Ratings

Lakewood is served by Clover Park School District, which is known for supporting military-connected students. Schools like Clover Park High School and Harrison Prep offer strong programs.

We make it easier to compare schools and understand boundaries so families can make confident decisions.

Safety and Crime Rates

Neighborhoods around Lake Steilacoom and Gravelly Lake are often highlighted for their quiet, family-friendly feel. Other areas are more urban, offering a different pace of living.

Our local insight and crime mapping tools help families weigh the best options for their needs.

Home Prices and Property Trends

The Lakewood, WA, real estate market has something for everyone, from entry-level condos to lakeside estates. Properties near the water usually carry higher prices, but overall, the market is still competitive compared to Tacoma or Seattle.

Many listings fall within BAH budgets, and houses for rent in Lakewood, WA, are in steady demand.

Commute Times and Transportation Access

Lakewood is one of the closest cities to JBLM, with many neighborhoods less than 10 minutes from the gates. Direct access to I-5, plus an Amtrak station and Park-and-Ride lots, makes getting around simple.

We help families evaluate commute times and pinpoint the most convenient military homes for sale in Lakewood, WA.

Neighborhood Vibe and Community Amenities

Life in Lakewood revolves around its lakes, including American Lake, Gravelly Lake, and Lake Steilacoom. These spots are perfect for boating, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors.

Families also appreciate Lakewood Towne Center for shopping, along with a wide range of international dining and cultural events.

Taxes and Cost of Living

Washington has no state income tax, and property taxes in Lakewood are moderate. Waterfront properties come at a premium, while inland neighborhoods are often more affordable.

Growth, Zoning, and Future Development

Lakewood continues to invest in revitalizing its downtown and transit-oriented areas. These projects create more housing options and add value for buyers and investors alike.

Diversity and Demographics

One of the most diverse cities in Pierce County, Lakewood is home to a wide mix of cultures and backgrounds. Military families find it easy to connect and feel at home here.

Specialty Healthcare and Medical Access

From St. Clare Hospital and MultiCare clinics to Madigan Army Medical Center, families have quick access to healthcare and specialty services right in or near the city.

Environmental Quality and Noise Levels

Some neighborhoods close to I-5 or the JBLM airfield can be noisier, while lakefront and residential areas are usually calm and scenic. We offer environmental and flood zone reviews so families know exactly what to expect.

Veteran Services and Job Opportunities

Lakewood is deeply connected to the veteran community, with the American Lake VA Medical Center, local VFW posts, and JBLM resources nearby. The city’s job market includes roles in retail, healthcare, education, and logistics.

Featured Listings in Lakewood

Looking for your next home? From starter houses to lakefront properties, Lakewood has plenty of options. Explore the latest Lakewood, WA homes for sale and current rentals to find the right fit for your family.

Want the full market report for Lakewood?

Stay up to date on the latest sales trends, pricing details, and neighborhood insights. Our complete market report covers everything from recent homes for sale to houses for rent in Lakewood, WA, along with helpful demographic information. Enter your details below for instant access and make your next move with confidence.

Lakewood
Market Report

Schools In the Area

Browse local schools, complete with ratings and contact info.
Cherrydale Elementary School 253-983-2570 Public KG-3
Lake Louise Elementary School 253-583-5310 Public KG-5
Harrison Preperatory School 253-583-5418 Public 6-12
Steilacoom High School 253-983-2300 Public 9-12
Cherrydale Elementary School 253-983-2570 Public KG-3
Lake Louise Elementary School 253-583-5310 Public KG-5
Four Heroes Elementary School 253-583-5340 Public KG-5
Oakbrook Elementary School 253-583-5330 Public KG-5
Tyee Park Elementary School 253-583-5380 Public KG-5
Park Lodge Elementary School 253-583-5350 Public KG-5
Custer Elementary School 253-583-5230 Public KG-5
Idlewild Elementary School 253-583-5290 Public KG-5
Tillicum Elementary School 253-583-5370 Public KG-5
Lakeview Hope Academy 253-583-5320 Public KG-5
Dower Elementary School 253-583-5240 Public KG-5
Clover Park Early Learning Program 253-583-5360 Public PK-PK
St Frances Cabrini School 253-584-3850 Private PK-8
Lakewood Lutheran School 253-584-6024 Private PK-10
Special Education Services/Relife 253-583-5170 Public PK-12
Birth to Three 253-874-5445 Public PK-PK
Oak Grove 253-756-2522 Public KG-7
Developmental Preschool 253-983-2238 Public PK-PK
Cherrydale Elementary School 253-983-2570 Public KG-3
Lake Louise Elementary School 253-583-5310 Public KG-5
Four Heroes Elementary School 253-583-5340 Public KG-5
Custer Elementary School 253-583-5230 Public KG-5
Tyee Park Elementary School 253-583-5380 Public KG-5
Park Lodge Elementary School 253-583-5350 Public KG-5
Oakbrook Elementary School 253-583-5330 Public KG-5
Saltars Point Elementary School 253-983-2600 Public 4-5
Harrison Preperatory School 253-583-5418 Public 6-12
Tillicum Elementary School 253-583-5370 Public KG-5
Hudtloff Middle School 253-583-5400 Public 6-8
Idlewild Elementary School 253-583-5290 Public KG-5
Lochburn Middle School 253-583-5420 Public 6-8
Lakeview Hope Academy 253-583-5320 Public KG-5
Dower Elementary School 253-583-5240 Public KG-5
Transition Day Students 253-756-2522 Public 5-12
Re-Entry Middle School 253-583-5420 Public 6-8
Oak Grove 253-756-2522 Public KG-7
St Frances Cabrini School 253-584-3850 Private PK-8
Firwood 253-756-2522 Public 4-12
Lakewood Lutheran School 253-584-6024 Private PK-10
Special Education Services/Relife 253-583-5170 Public PK-12
Harrison Preperatory School 253-583-5418 Public 6-12
Hudtloff Middle School 253-583-5400 Public 6-8
Lochburn Middle School 253-583-5420 Public 6-8
Transition Day Students 253-756-2522 Public 5-12
Special Education Services/Relife 253-583-5170 Public PK-12
Firwood 253-756-2522 Public 4-12
St Frances Cabrini School 253-584-3850 Private PK-8
Lakewood Lutheran School 253-584-6024 Private PK-10
Oak Grove 253-756-2522 Public KG-7
Re-Entry Middle School 253-583-5420 Public 6-8
Steilacoom High School 253-983-2300 Public 9-12
Harrison Preperatory School 253-583-5418 Public 6-12
Lakes High School 253-583-5550 Public 9-12
Cpsd Open Doors Program 253-583-5525 Public 9-12
Clover Park High School 253-583-5500 Public 9-12
Futures Program 253-583-7100 Public 11-12
Firwood 253-756-2522 Public 4-12
Northwest Career and Technical High School 253-589-5800 Public 9-12
Special Education Services/Relife 253-583-5170 Public PK-12
Lakewood Lutheran School 253-584-6024 Private PK-10
Steilacoom Pride Academy 253-983-2300 Public 9-12
Alfaretta House 253-583-5584 Public 11-12
Re-Entry High School 253-583-5420 Public 9-12
Transition Day Students 253-756-2522 Public 5-12
Oakridge Group Home 253-756-2522 Public 9-12

Around The Area

Check out top-rated local businesses, restaurants, and services in Lakewood.

Local News & Advice

Stay informed with helpful resources, community updates, and real estate tips related to the area.