Is University Place a Good Place to Live in 2025? (Washington Lifestyle & Neighborhood Guide)

University Place — or UP, as locals call it — is consistently one of the most requested cities in Pierce County. Known for its excellent schools, safe and quiet neighborhoods, community feel, and proximity to Tacoma’s most beautiful waterfront areas, it’s a place that shows up on almost every buyer’s shortlist.

So the question comes up all the time:

“Is University Place actually a good place to live?”

The short answer:
Yes — University Place is one of the most desirable places to live in all of Pierce County.

But it’s important to understand why it’s so popular and whether it matches the lifestyle you’re looking for.

If you want to explore Tacoma and surrounding suburbs more broadly, this is a great resource:
Living in Tacoma, WA (2025 Guide)
Let’s walk through what makes UP such a standout choice.

1. UP Is One of the Most “Put-Together” Cities in Pierce County

When people describe UP, they use words like:

• clean

• safe

• stable

• well-maintained

• desirable

• community-focused

The city is intentionally planned, with wide sidewalks, manicured neighborhoods, and a suburban feel that appeals to both families and retirees.

If you’re comparing quiet Washington communities, this guide might help as well:
Best Pierce County Neighborhoods for Seniors & Simplified Living (2025 Guide)

2. Some of the Best Schools in the Entire Tacoma Area

One of the biggest reasons families choose University Place is the University Place School District (UPSD). It consistently ranks as one of the strongest districts in Pierce County — something that has kept demand (and property values) high.

Parents choose UP for:

• Quality education

• Safe learning environments

• Strong athletics and arts

• Community involvement

For buyers researching schools in Tacoma-area cities, you also have this helpful guide:
What Are the Best Schools in Tacoma? (2025 Guide)

3. Neighborhood Breakdown: UP’s Most Popular Areas

While UP is not a large city geographically, it has very distinct neighborhoods. Here are the most requested:

• Harbor Pointe / Chambers Bay Area

Affluent, scenic, and close to the world-famous Chambers Bay Golf Course and trails.

• Grandview Drive Area

Quiet, tree-lined streets with territorial and partial waterfront views.

• UP Town Center Area

Near shopping, walkability, and newer condo options.

• Curtis High School Pockets

Highly sought after by families prioritizing education.

Each area offers a slightly different lifestyle — from peaceful and scenic to suburban and convenient.

4. Parks & Recreation: One of UP’s Biggest Strengths

University Place is home to some of the most beautiful recreation areas in the region:

• Chambers Bay Golf Course

• Chambers Creek Canyon Trails

• Walking paths along the waterfront

• Parks with playgrounds and open green space

For outdoor lovers comparing broader areas across the county, this is another helpful guide:
Best Pierce County Neighborhoods for Outdoor Enthusiasts (2025 Guide)

UP offers a high-end outdoor lifestyle without leaving the suburbs.

5. Safety & Stability: A Major Draw for Buyers

While no city is perfect, UP is consistently ranked among the safest areas in Pierce County. Buyers feel confident here because of:

• well-maintained neighborhoods

• strong community involvement

• slower traffic corridors

• established homeowner presence

This stability is a major reason demand remains high year after year.

6. Affordability: Higher Than Average, But With Stable Value

University Place is not the most affordable Pierce County city — and buyers should know that going in.

But what you get in return is:

• strong resale value

• desirable neighborhoods

• highly ranked school district

• clean, safe streets

• consistent long-term demand

If affordability is a priority, many buyers compare UP with South Hill, Spanaway, and Bonney Lake:
Most Affordable Areas in Pierce County — Ranked for 2025
 

7. Commute Considerations

University Place offers straightforward access to:

• Tacoma

• I-5

• Lacey/Olympia to the south

• Gig Harbor via the Narrows Bridge

For JBLM families, UP is not the closest city, but the lifestyle trade-off is often worth it.

Military families comparing commute vs. lifestyle may want to look at:
Housing Near JBLM (2025 Guide)
 

8. Who University Place Is Best For

UP tends to be a great match if you value:

• safety

• schools

• walkability

• quiet suburban living

• well-kept neighborhoods

• parks and outdoor recreation

• strong resale value

It’s ideal for families, retirees, and professionals wanting stability and a clean, community-focused environment.

9. Who UP May NOT Be Best For

UP may not be the right fit if you want:

• affordability

• rural space or acreage

• nightlife or urban density

• new-construction communities like Tehaleh

UP is premium, established, and suburban — not fast-growing or sprawling.

10. Final Thoughts: Is University Place a Good Place to Live in 2025?

For many buyers, the answer is absolutely yes.

If you want a clean, safe, community-driven city with strong schools and incredible outdoor access, UP is one of the best places to live in Pierce County — and its long-term desirability and stability reflect that.

If you're considering a move to University Place, I’d love to help you explore the pockets that fit your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals — without feeling overwhelmed.

Whenever you’re ready, we can walk through the neighborhoods together and make a thoughtful plan.

 Written by: Lani Fisher — Washington Realtor Helping Everyday Buyers & Sellers With Confidence