JBLM, WA | 2025 Guide to the Best Neighborhoods for Military Families

Whether you're coming to Washington for a PCS, changing duty stations, or returning to JBLM after a deployment, choosing the right neighborhood can make a major difference in your commute, quality of life, and overall PCS experience. As a veteran and local Washington Realtor, here’s a clear, honest guide to the neighborhoods military families choose most.

This list is based on commute, affordability, schools, community feel, and daily convenience for real-life military schedules.

1. Dupont (Best for Walkability + Quickest Commute)

Dupont is one of the most popular communities for JBLM families — especially those stationed at Lewis Main or North Fort.

Why Military Families Love Dupont:

• 5–10 minute commute to JBLM

• Master-planned neighborhoods

• Strong parks and trails

• Very walkable

• Clean, safe, quiet

It’s ideal for buyers who want a community feel with minimal drive time.

If you're navigating the PCS process, this may help:
➡️ What Should Military Families Know When Relocating to Washington (PCS Move)

 2. Lacey (Best for Schools + Convenience)

Located 10–15 minutes from JBLM’s back gate, Lacey offers a mix of suburban comfort, strong schools, and new construction.

Why Military Families Choose Lacey:

• Excellent school options

• Newer neighborhoods

• Shopping, recreation & lakes

• Easy access to I-5

• Family-friendly planned communities

It’s one of the strongest long-term value areas for military families who want good schools and good space.

3. Steilacoom (Best for Waterfront Charm + Quick JBLM Access)

Steilacoom is a hidden gem with small-town charm and stunning views.

What Families Love:

• 5–12 minute commute

• Quiet, historic town

• Water views and parks

• Community events

• Close to Lakewood & Dupont amenities

Homes can be older, but the location and lifestyle are unmatched.

4. Lakewood (Best for Affordability + Fast Commute)

Lakewood is one of the most convenient cities for JBLM commuters, especially those with unpredictable schedules, duty rotations, or early morning PT.

Why Military Families Choose Lakewood:

• 10–15 minute commute

• Affordable starter homes

• Lakes, parks & recreation

• Quick I-5 access

• Diverse neighborhood options

It’s a top choice for buyers who want budget-friendly homes without giving up convenience.

5. Yelm (Best for Value + New Construction)

Yelm sits about 25–35 minutes from JBLM but offers some of the best affordability and space in the region.

What Families Appreciate:

• Newer construction

• Larger lots

• Strong community feel

• Growing shopping and amenities

• Mountain views

Yelm is perfect for buyers wanting more house for their money.

If you're comparing affordability or budgeting:
➡️ How Much Income Do You Need to Buy a Home in Washington? (2025 Guide)

 6. Puyallup (Best for Suburban Living + Larger Communities)

Puyallup — especially South Hill — is a favorite for families wanting suburban convenience, strong schools, and good resale value.

Reasons Military Households Choose Puyallup:

• 25–35 minute commute

• New construction options

• Retail, restaurants & entertainment

• Excellent parks and trails

• Strong resale demand

For a deeper look at Puyallup:
➡️ Living in Puyallup: A Local’s Guide to Schools, Neighborhoods & Community Insights

 7. Spanaway / Graham (Best for Affordability + Space)

Spanaway and Graham give you more house for the money and have become major hubs for military families over the past decade.

What Buyers Love:

• Budget-friendly

• Newer homes

• Larger yards

• Strong value

• Commute through East Gate or backroads

It’s ideal for buyers wanting space without the higher price tag of Lacey or Puyallup.

8. Roy / McKenna (Best for Rural Living + JBLM Proximity)

For families who prefer open land, privacy, and quiet, Roy and McKenna offer a peaceful lifestyle with reasonable commute times.

Why Military Families Choose These Areas:

• Acreage options

• Quiet rural living

• Still close to JBLM

• Smaller community feel

These areas offer a different pace of life without sacrificing access to the base.

9. Olympia (Best for Amenities + Established Neighborhoods)

Some military families choose Olympia for:

• Established neighborhoods

• Strong schools

• Beautiful parks

• Community events

• Waterfront access

While 30–40 minutes from JBLM, it's perfect for families who want city conveniences with a laid-back lifestyle.

Commute Times at a Glance

Here’s a general breakdown (traffic can change everything):

Area & Approx. Commute

Dupont

• 5–10 min

Lakewood

• 10–15 min

Steilacoom

• 5–12 min

Lacey

• 10–15 min

Yelm

• 25–35 min

Puyallup (South Hill)

• 25–35 min

Spanaway / Graham

• 20–35 min

Roy / McKenna

• 20–30 min

Olympia

• 30–40 min

 Final Thoughts

Choosing the right neighborhood near JBLM isn’t just about commute — it’s about community, schools, affordability, and how your daily life will feel with a military schedule. Whether you want walkable and quiet, suburban and convenient, or rural and private, there is a neighborhood around JBLM that fits your family’s needs.

 If you're PCSing to JBLM and want help choosing the right area for your lifestyle, commute, and budget, I’m here to make the transition easier. As a veteran and local expert, I’ll guide you through every step of the process.

Written by: Lani Fisher, Washington Realtor & Veteran Helping Military Families PCS With Ease