Is DuPont a Good Place to Live in 2025? (Washington’s Most Walkable Military-Friendly City)
If you ask military families, commuters, or buyers wanting a clean, walkable, low-stress lifestyle, DuPont is almost always at the top of the list. It’s one of the most organized and well-planned cities in Pierce County — and for many, it instantly feels like home.
So when people ask me:
“Is DuPont actually a good place to live?”
The answer is almost always:
Yes — DuPont is one of the easiest, safest, and most comfortable cities to live in near JBLM and the I-5 corridor.
But like every city, it has its own personality and best-fit buyer.
This guide breaks down everything you should know about DuPont in 2025.
For a full, in-depth breakdown of DuPont’s neighborhoods and lifestyle, here’s your complete guide:
Living in DuPont, WA (2025 Guide)
1. DuPont Is One of Washington’s Most Walkable Suburban Cities
DuPont is known for:
walkable neighborhoods
wide sidewalks
planned greenbelts
multiple parks
forested trail systems
a strong community feel
It has a “small town, master-planned community” charm that’s hard to find elsewhere in Pierce County.
If you love being outside, or you’re looking for walkability without dense urban living, DuPont stands out.
2. One of the Best JBLM Commutes in the Entire Region
DuPont is just minutes from Joint Base Lewis–McChord, which is a major advantage for service members and DoD civilians.
Key benefits:
3–8 minutes to the gates (depending on traffic)
No long I-5 merges
Safe, clean neighborhoods close to base
Predictable commute — even during shift changes
For families comparing JBLM commute cities across the region, here’s a deeper guide:
Housing Near JBLM (2025 Guide)
3. Neighborhood Breakdown: Clean, Organized & Community-Oriented
DuPont is divided into well-planned neighborhoods that all circle around parks, trails, and open green space.
Popular areas include:
• Northwest Landing
Master-planned community, highly walkable, with parks everywhere.
• Harmon / Historic District
Quieter, charming, filled with mature landscaping and character.
• Bell Hill
Scenic views, larger homes, peaceful tree-lined streets.
• Palisade / Hoffman Hill Area
Clean, well-kept, often chosen by military families for convenience.
No matter which neighborhood you choose, the community feel is a constant — friendly, safe, and highly residential.
4. Outdoor Living: Trails, Parks & Forest Access Everywhere
DuPont is incredible for anyone who enjoys being outdoors.
You’ll find:
forested walking trails
paved bike paths
Sequalitchew Creek Trail
trail access down to the Puget Sound shoreline
multiple community parks
sports courts and playgrounds
For a broader comparison of outdoor-forward cities, here’s another helpful guide:
Best Pierce County Neighborhoods for Outdoor Enthusiasts (2025 Guide)
DuPont blends convenience with nature extremely well.
5. Safety & Community Feel: One of DuPont’s Biggest Strengths
DuPont consistently feels:
safe
clean
community-focused
predictable
well-maintained
It’s a low-crime city with strong neighborhood involvement and a friendly atmosphere — something many buyers specifically seek out.
6. Schools: Small, Organized & Community-Oriented
DuPont schools (primarily within the Steilacoom Historical School District) offer:
strong community support
neighborhood-focused schools
walkability for many families
steady academic performance
Families who want calm, smaller, community-focused school environments often love DuPont.
7. Housing Options: Something for Every Buyer
DuPont offers:
newer construction
townhomes and condos
well-kept single-family homes
larger homes on Bell Hill
low-maintenance properties perfect for busy families or retirees
Price points are typically higher than Spanaway or South Hill, but lower than Tacoma’s North End, University Place, and parts of Puyallup.
8. Who DuPont Is Perfect For
DuPont is an excellent fit for:
military families wanting minimal commute stress
retired veterans wanting peace and proximity
young professionals
outdoor lovers
families wanting walkability
people who want quiet, safe neighborhoods
buyers who want predictability and organization
It’s one of the easiest cities to transition into — especially for out-of-state buyers.
9. Who DuPont May NOT Be the Best Fit For
DuPont may not be ideal if you want:
nightlife
big commercial centers
large city amenities
acreage or rural land
waterfront within city limits
older historic homes
DuPont is clean, simple, suburban, and intentionally low-key.
10. Final Thoughts: Is DuPont a Good Place to Live in 2025?
Absolutely.
If you want a walkable, clean, safe, community-focused city with unbeatable JBLM access and incredible outdoor amenities, DuPont is one of the best places to live in Washington.
It delivers peace, convenience, and stability — all in one place.
If you're considering DuPont, I’d love to help you explore the neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and goals — whether you're relocating, PCS’ing, or simply wanting an easier pace of life.
When you're ready, we’ll build a plan together that feels simple and supportive.
Written by: Lani Fisher — Washington Realtor Helping Everyday Buyers & Sellers With Confidence