Living in Steilacoom, WA: Waterfront Views, Historic Charm & Lifestyle (2025 Guide)

Steilacoom is one of the most beautiful, peaceful, and historic towns in Washington — known for its sweeping Puget Sound views, charming neighborhoods, waterfront parks, and small-town lifestyle. If you’re looking for a quiet coastal community with unbeatable sunsets, a strong sense of history, and an easy commute to JBLM, Steilacoom may be exactly what you’re searching for.

Here’s your full 2025 guide to Steilacoom — written with hyperlocal insight and Pierce County expertise.

 Where Steilacoom Is Located

Steilacoom sits along the shores of the Puget Sound, between:

• Lakewood

• DuPont

• University Place

• Anderson Island Ferry Dock

It’s one of the closest waterfront towns to JBLM, making it extremely desirable for military families and anyone wanting peaceful coastal living with a manageable commute.

For JBLM-friendly comparisons:
➡️ The Best Neighborhoods Near JBLM for Military Families (2025 Guide)

Why People Love Living in Steilacoom

1. Stunning Puget Sound Views

Steilacoom offers some of the best water views in Pierce County, including:

• Puget Sound

• Ketron & Anderson Island

• Olympic Mountains

• Bald eagles, marine wildlife & ferries

If you’re exploring view-focused areas:
➡️ Best Cities in Pierce County With a Water View (2025 Guide)

2. Historic Small-Town Charm

Steilacoom is Washington’s oldest incorporated town and still feels like a peaceful coastal village.

You’ll find:

• Historic homes

• Quiet tree-lined streets

• Beautiful old architecture

• A strong sense of community

3. Easy, Predictable Commute to JBLM

Steilacoom is one of the closest waterfront towns to JBLM.

Many military families choose Steilacoom because they can enjoy the water lifestyle without sacrificing commute time.

For PCS and relocation help:
➡️ Housing Near JBLM: Best Cities, Commutes & Neighborhoods (2025 Guide)

4. Walkable, Relaxed Lifestyle

Steilacoom is made for slow mornings and sunset walks.

Daily life looks like:

• Grabbing coffee on Lafayette St.

• Morning walks along the waterfront

• Watching ferries come and go

• Evenings at Sunnyside Beach

• Stopping by small-town restaurants & shops

5. Beautiful Waterfront Parks

Some of the best coastal parks in Pierce County are here:

• Sunnyside Beach

• Saltar’s Point Park

• Pioneer Orchard Park

• Farrell’s Marsh Wildlife Area

• Steilacoom Ferry Dock lookout

Great for picnics, photos, paddleboarding and family time.

Top Neighborhoods in Steilacoom (2025)

Steilacoom has a mix of historic charm and modern developments — each offering a different lifestyle.

 1. Old Town Steilacoom (Historic + Walkable + Views)

This is the heart of Steilacoom and one of the most desirable areas.

Buyers love:

• Victorian and craftsman homes

• Walkability to shops & waterfront

• Unbeatable Sound views

• Charming streets & community events

2. Sunnyside Beach Area (Views + Water Access)

Close to Sunnyside Beach Park, with:

• Stunning views

• Quiet residential pockets

• Beach access

• Quick access to main roads

Perfect for buyers wanting a relaxed coastal vibe.

3. Chambers Creek Road Area (Convenient + Scenic)

Located between Steilacoom and UP, offering:

• Suburban feel

• Close access to Chambers Bay trails

• Neighborhood charm

• Convenience to both towns

For UP comparisons:
➡️ Is University Place Worth the Price? (2025 Guide)

 4. Farrell’s Marsh Area (Peaceful + Nature-Focused)

Known for:

• Trails & birdwatching

• Quiet streets

• Homes surrounded by natural beauty

Perfect for outdoor and nature lovers.

5. Downtown Ridge & Ferry District (Views + Community)

Homes here often have some of the best water views.

Highlights:

• Overlooks the ferry dock

• Walkable

• Beautiful sunsets

• Historic character

Schools in Steilacoom

Steilacoom is served by:

Steilacoom Historical School District

Known for:

• Strong academics

• Small-town school culture

• Safe, tight-knit environment

• Solid athletic programs

Many families choose Steilacoom specifically for the district.

Lifestyle, Amenities & Community Feel

Local Favorites

• Coffee shops

• Family-owned restaurants

• The historic Bair Drug & Hardware

• Farmers markets & seasonal events

Outdoor Living

• Paddleboarding

• Beach walks

• Kayaking

• Fishing

• Wildlife-viewing

Community Vibe

Steilacoom feels:

• Safe

• Quiet

• Friendly

• Community-oriented

It’s one of the few towns left where neighbors actually know each other.

Real Estate in Steilacoom (2025 Overview)

Steilacoom offers a mix of:

• Historic homes

• Water-view homes

• Single-level homes perfect for downsizing

• Mid-century homes

• Newer construction pockets

• Condos near the water

It’s a strong choice for:

✔ Military families
✔ Buyers wanting views
✔ Downsizers
✔ First-time buyers wanting lifestyle + value

Commute Insights

Destination Avg. Time

JBLM 10–15 minutes

Tacoma 20–30 minutes

Lakewood 10 minutes

Seattle 45–70 minutes

One of the best commute-friendly coastal towns in the South Sound.

Who Steilacoom Is Best For

Steilacoom is ideal for:

• Buyers wanting a peaceful small-town feel

• Military families needing an easy JBLM commute

• Water-view or waterfront lovers

• Downsizers wanting tranquility + walkability

• Outdoor enthusiasts

• Buyers who value historic charm

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

Final Thoughts

Steilacoom is one of the South Sound’s hidden gems — offering stunning water views, peaceful living, historic charm, and easy JBLM access. If you're dreaming of a quiet coastal lifestyle with big views and a strong sense of community, Steilacoom is absolutely worth exploring.

 If you're considering Steilacoom — or want help comparing it to Dupont, Lakewood, Gig Harbor, or University Place — I’d love to guide you with hyperlocal expertise and a clear, confident plan.

 Written by: Lani Fisher, Washington Realtor & Pierce County Market Expert