Best Pierce County Neighborhoods for Retired Veterans (2025 Washington Guide Near JBLM)
Retiring in Pierce County gives veterans a beautiful blend of nature, community, and convenience — all within reach of Joint Base Lewis–McChord. Many retired service members choose to stay here because of the VA healthcare access, affordable housing compared to Seattle, and the peaceful suburban and rural neighborhoods that make day-to-day life feel grounded.
After working with hundreds of military and veteran families across Pierce County, I’ve noticed the same priorities come up again and again:
Peace and quiet
Low-maintenance living
Access to VA healthcare
Safe, stable neighborhoods
Affordability
Outdoor recreation
This guide highlights the Pierce County neighborhoods that retired veterans consistently love — places where you can settle in, simplify life, and enjoy the next chapter with comfort and confidence.
For a broader JBLM overview, you can reference this:
Housing Near JBLM: The Best Cities, Commutes & Neighborhoods for Military Families (2025 Guide)
1. DuPont — Quiet, Walkable & Veteran-Friendly
DuPont is one of the most popular areas for retired veterans because it offers:
Peaceful, master-planned neighborhoods
Easy walking routes and flat terrain
Quiet streets
Quick access to JBLM and VA services
A strong military-connected community
It’s ideal for those who want convenience without noise or traffic.
Learn more:
Living in DuPont, WA (2025 Guide)
2. Steilacoom — Scenic, Peaceful & Historically Rich
Steilacoom is perfect for retired veterans who want:
A slower pace
Beautiful walking routes
Tight-knit community feel
Clean, well-kept neighborhoods
Easy access to JBLM back gate
Many veterans choose Steilacoom for its calm, waterfront-adjacent lifestyle.
Explore more:
Living in Steilacoom, WA (2025 Guide)
3. Lakewood (Select Pockets) — Easy Access to VA Healthcare
Lakewood is home to the VA Puget Sound American Lake campus, making it one of the most strategic places for retired veterans to live.
Neighborhoods near:
American Lake
Lake Steilacoom
Gravelly Lake
Oakbrook
…offer peaceful streets and direct access to VA services.
Explore lifestyle here:
Living in Lakewood, WA (2025 Guide)
4. Lacey — Suburban Comfort With Veteran-Friendly Services
Lacey is a strong choice for retired military because of:
Well-planned suburban neighborhoods
North Thurston schools (for families with grandkids)
Trail networks
Easy I-5 access
Proximity to VA clinics and hospitals in Olympia and JBLM
Explore broader relocation insights here:
Where to Live When You're Moving to Washington for Work
5. South Hill (Puyallup) — Convenience, Parks & Strong Community Feel
South Hill is ideal for retired veterans who want:
Close shopping and dining
Peaceful suburban pockets
Trail access and parks
Newer homes with low-maintenance yards
It provides a balanced lifestyle with all major amenities nearby.
Learn more here:
Living in South Hill, WA (2025 Guide)
6. Orting — Peaceful Valley Living With Strong Outdoor Options
Orting offers:
Quiet streets
Mountain views
Walkability
Small-town charm
Access to the Foothills Trail
It’s great for retirees who want scenery and serenity without losing access to major cities.
Explore more:
Living in Orting, WA (2025 Guide)
7. Bonney Lake — Modern Amenities & Outdoor Living
Bonney Lake is popular with retired veterans who enjoy:
Newer construction
Clean, well-kept neighborhoods
Beautiful foothill and forest views
Close access to trails and recreation
Tehaleh, in particular, offers miles of walkable paths and a tight-knit community feel.
Learn more:
Living in Bonney Lake, WA (2025 Guide)
8. Graham — Rural Peace & Privacy for Retired Veterans
Graham is ideal for retired service members who want:
Larger lots
Peace and quiet
Space for hobbies, gardening, or RVs
Forested surroundings
It’s a great fit for retirees who want more space and a slower lifestyle.
Learn more:
Living in Spanaway & Graham, WA (2025 Guide)
9. Spanaway — Affordability With a Strong Military Community
Spanaway is one of the most affordable areas near JBLM and offers:
A strong VA-loan buyer presence
Larger homes than Tacoma at similar prices
Quick JBLM commute
Many quiet, established neighborhoods
For retired veterans on a fixed income, the affordability here makes a big difference.
10. Which Neighborhood Fits Your Lifestyle as a Retired Veteran?
Here’s a quick summary:
Best for Walkability + Simplicity:
DuPont • Steilacoom • Lacey
Best for Access to VA Healthcare:
Lakewood (near American Lake)
Best for Peace & Privacy:
Graham • Orting • South Hill pockets
Best for Affordability:
Spanaway • Graham
Best for Scenic, Low-Maintenance Living:
Bonney Lake • Steilacoom • DuPont
Best for Outdoor Recreation:
Orting • Bonney Lake • Eatonville (if commute isn’t a factor)
If you want an overall comparison of JBLM-area living, start here:
Housing Near JBLM (2025 Guide)
Final Thoughts: Pierce County Is an Incredible Place for Retired Veterans to Call Home
Whether you want quiet living, walkable neighborhoods, VA access, or outdoor adventure, Pierce County offers a community that will match your goals and support your lifestyle long-term.
If you're a retired veteran planning your next chapter in Pierce County, I’d love to help you find the neighborhood that truly feels like home — peaceful, practical, and aligned with your needs.
When you’re ready, we can build a plan together that feels thoughtful and stress-free.
Written by: Lani Fisher — Washington Realtor Helping Everyday Buyers & Sellers With Confidence