Pierce County, WA | 2025 Guide to the Most Affordable Areas

Pierce County continues to be one of Washington’s strongest regions for affordability, attracting first-time buyers, military families heading to JBLM, downsizers, and anyone needing more space without King County prices.

 Here are the most affordable areas in Pierce County for 2025, ranked by home prices, value, lifestyle, amenities, and overall convenience.

 1. Spanaway (Most Affordable Overall + Best Value)

 Spanaway consistently ranks as one of the most budget-friendly places to buy in the county.

Why buyers choose Spanaway:

• Lower starting prices

• Mix of older + newer homes

• Larger lots

• JBLM accessibility via East Gate

• Strong rental and resale demand

 Spanaway is a great fit for first-time buyers comparing affordability:

➡️ Best Neighborhoods in Pierce County for First-Time Buyers (2025 Guide)

2. Graham (Affordability + Space + Newer Builds)

 Graham offers more square footage and newer homes for less than nearby cities.

Benefits:

• New construction communities

• Spacious yards

• Family-friendly neighborhoods

• Quiet suburban lifestyle

 For buyers evaluating their monthly budget:

➡️ How Much Income Do You Need to Buy a Home in Washington? (2025 Guide)

 3. Lakewood (Affordable + Fast Commute to JBLM)

 Lakewood offers some of the lowest price points close to JBLM and major highways.

Why it’s affordable:

• Wide range of pricing

• Mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes

• Proximity to I-5, shopping, and lakes

• Quick 10–15 minute commute to JBLM

 Military buyers moving here often compare nearby areas:

➡️ The Best Neighborhoods Near JBLM for Military Families (2025 Guide)

 4. Parkland / Midland (Budget Friendly + Central Location)

Parkland and Midland offer excellent affordability with a central, convenient location.

What buyers love:

• Lower property taxes

• Close to Hwy 512

• Quick drive to Tacoma or Puyallup

• Affordable starter homes

 If you're comparing cost of living across cities:

➡️ Cost of Living in Tacoma vs. Puyallup

5. Frederickson (Newer Homes at Reasonable Prices)

 Frederickson gives buyers access to newer homes without South Hill pricing.

Highlights:

• Newer subdivisions

• Community parks

• Close to Canyon Rd & Meridian

• Strong appreciation trends

This appeals especially to buyers wanting a move-in-ready home.

6. South Tacoma (Affordable + Urban Convenience)

 South Tacoma combines affordability with access to amenities, shops, and commuter routes.

Why it’s on the list:

• Lower entry price points

• Charming older homes

• Central location

• Quick access to I-5

 Perfect for buyers who want affordability without suburban distance.

7. Orting (Affordable + Scenic + Small-Town Living)

 Orting offers affordable living with mountain views and a close-knit feel.

Buyers love:

• Lower home prices

• Outdoor recreation

• Trails and parks

• Quiet neighborhoods

 Ideal for families wanting small-town charm.

8. Tacoma Eastside (Affordable + Fast-Growing)

 Tacoma’s Eastside continues to offer some of the lowest price points within Tacoma city limits.

Why Eastside ranks:

• Affordable starter homes

• Proximity to downtown

• Strong appreciation potential

• Active community development

 If buyers are exploring Tacoma and Puyallup together, this helps:

➡️ Living in Puyallup: Neighborhoods, Schools, Commute & Community Insights

 9. Buckley (Affordable + Rural + Accessible)

 Buckley offers a rural feel with reasonable home prices and good proximity to Bonney Lake amenities.

Highlights:

• Larger lots

• Quiet living

• Good community feel

• Room to grow

 A great fit for buyers wanting affordability with space.

10. Eatonville (Affordable + Nature-Focused Living)

 Eatonville is one of the best affordable rural communities in Pierce County.

Why people move here:

• Open spaces

• Lower prices

• Mountain views

• Tight-knit community

 A strong option for those who want nature and affordability together.

Final Thoughts

 Pierce County offers some of the most budget-friendly housing options in Washington without sacrificing lifestyle, space, or community. Whether you’re looking for suburban convenience, new construction, or rural tranquility, there’s an affordable neighborhood that fits your goals and budget.

 If you’re looking for an affordable place to buy in Pierce County and want help narrowing down your best options, I’m here to guide you with real market data, local insight, and a plan tailored to your budget and goals.

 Written by: Lani Fisher, Washington Realtor & Local Market Expert