Living in Dupont, WA: Neighborhoods, Schools, Commutes & Community Life (2025 Guide)

If you’re PCSing to JBLM, relocating for work, or searching for one of the most peaceful master-planned communities in Pierce County, Dupont is likely on your radar. Known for its walkability, community events, golf course living, and extremely easy commute to JBLM, Dupont is a favorite for military families and professionals who want convenience without the intensity of bigger city living.

Here’s everything you need to know about living in Dupont in 2025 — from neighborhoods to schools to real estate.

 Where Dupont Is Located

Dupont sits between Tacoma and Olympia and borders the JBLM training reservation. It’s one of the closest communities to the JBLM gates.

Commute times:

  • JBLM: 5–10 minutes (depending on the gate)

  • Tacoma: 20–30 minutes

  • Olympia: 15–20 minutes

  • Seattle: 45–60 minutes

If you’re comparing JBLM commute-friendly communities:
➡️ The Best Neighborhoods Near JBLM for Military Families (2025 Guide)

Why Buyers Love Dupont

1. One of the Best JBLM Commutes in Washington

Dupont was practically built around military life — and it shows:

  • Multiple routes to JBLM

  • Less stress during peak traffic

  • Extremely predictable commute times

  • Great for dual-military households

For PCS-specific planning:
➡️ Housing Near JBLM: The Best Cities, Commutes & Neighborhoods for Military Families

 

2. Walkable, Safe, Master-Planned Community

Dupont is known for:

  • Sidewalks on every street

  • Community playgrounds

  • Small neighborhood parks

  • Trails connecting every subdivision

  • Clean, well-maintained streets

It feels like a small town where people genuinely know each other.

 

3. Excellent Schools

Dupont feeds into the Steilacoom Historical School District, one of the most consistently strong districts in the area.

Families love:

  • Strong community involvement

  • Smaller schools

  • Solid performance scores

  • Safe, inclusive environment

Schools are a top reason many military families choose Dupont.

 

4. Natural Beauty & Outdoor Living

Dupont has easy access to:

  • Nisqually Wildlife Refuge

  • Walking and biking trails

  • Beautiful forested greenbelts

  • Golf at The Home Course

  • Parks everywhere

It’s peaceful, quiet, and surrounded by nature.

 

Top Neighborhoods in Dupont (2025)

These are the most popular areas for buyers:

 1. Northwest Landing (Most Popular)

Northwest Landing is Dupont’s master-planned community with a mix of:

  • Craftsman-style homes

  • Townhomes

  • Condos

  • Newer construction pockets

Buyers love:

  • Walkability

  • Community parks

  • Neighborhood trails

  • Safe, quiet streets

  • Easy JBLM commute

Perfect for military families wanting structure and convenience.

 

2. Hoffman Hill (Quiet + Elevated + Some Water Glimpses)

Hoffman Hill sits slightly higher, offering:

  • A suburban feel

  • Newer homes

  • Wider streets

  • Some selective partial Puget Sound views

Great for buyers wanting privacy or less through-traffic.

For water-view comparisons across the county:
➡️ Most Affordable Water View Homes in Pierce County — Ranked for 2025

 3. Bell Hill (Smaller + Peaceful)

This is a quieter, tucked-away neighborhood with:

  • Tight-knit residential streets

  • Mature trees

  • Limited turnover

  • Great proximity to parks

Ideal for buyers who prefer quiet, less dense pockets.

 

4. The Home Course Area (Golf Course Living)

Buyers here enjoy:

  • Golf course views

  • Modern construction

  • Peaceful walking trails

  • High-demand rentals

This area attracts downsizers and military buyers wanting scenery + low maintenance.

 

Cost of Living in Dupont

Dupont is more affordable than Gig Harbor and University Place, but slightly pricier than Spanaway or Lakewood.

Why:

  • Limited land for expansion

  • High demand from JBLM

  • Community design standards

  • Strong school district

If comparing affordable areas nearby:
➡️ Most Affordable Areas in Pierce County — Ranked for 2025

 

Lifestyle & Amenities in Dupont

Parks & Trails

  • Clocktower Park

  • PowderWorks Park

  • Dupont Trail System

  • Sequalitchew Creek Trail

Local Favorites

  • Starbucks & local cafes

  • Small-town markets

  • Community holiday events

  • Seasonal farmers markets

Outdoor Recreation

  • Golf at The Home Course

  • Access to Nisqually Refuge

  • Forest trails for biking & running

 

Who Dupont Is Best For

Dupont is ideal for:

  • Military families PCSing to JBLM

  • First-time buyers wanting a low-stress community

  • Buyers who want walkability + safety

  • Professionals commuting to Olympia or Tacoma

  • Downsizers wanting easy living

  • Families prioritizing strong schools

 

Final Thoughts

Dupont is one of the best places in the South Sound for a quiet, safe, community-centered lifestyle — especially if you're connected to JBLM. With strong schools, walkable neighborhoods, and natural beauty surrounding the area, it’s a place where families settle in and feel at home quickly.

 If you're considering a move to Dupont — or want help comparing other JBLM-friendly neighborhoods — I’d love to guide you with firsthand expertise and a clear, confident plan.

 Written by: Lani Fisher, Washington Realtor & Local PCS Relocation Expert

Previous
Previous

Living in Lakewood (2025 Guide)Living in Lakewood, WA: Lakes, Neighborhoods, Commutes & Lifestyle (2025 Guide)

Next
Next

Is University Place Worth the Price? A 2025 Guide to UP’s Schools, Neighborhoods & Lifestyle