Washington Cities With the Fastest Appreciation (2025–2026 Guide)

Over the last few years, Washington’s housing market has shifted more than almost anywhere else in the country. We’ve seen prices climb, flatten, reset, and climb again — all depending on the city, the neighborhood, and even the side of the freeway.

And here’s the truth most buyers and sellers don’t realize:
Washington’s appreciation isn’t evenly spread.

Some cities grow fast.
Some grow steadily.
Some stagnate.
And a few are about to take off in 2025 and 2026 in ways many people won’t expect.

This is why I love helping people choose not just a home, but the right area. Because whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, understanding appreciation helps you protect your long-term wealth.

If you need a foundational guide to Washington neighborhoods and lifestyle, this helps:
Living in Pierce County, WA: Best Cities, Schools, Neighborhoods & Real-Life Lifestyle Insights (2025 Guide)
 

1. Bonney Lake — Strong Growth, Newer Homes, and High Demand

Bonney Lake continues to be one of the strongest appreciation markets in Pierce County.

Why?

• Newer construction

• Incredible mountain views

• Highly desirable neighborhoods

  Easy access to shopping and amenities

• Strong schools

• Expanding lifestyle amenities

Demand here has barely slowed even during market shifts.

For buyers researching the area:
Living in Bonney Lake, WA (2025 Guide)
 

2. Puyallup — Established, Convenient, and Always in Demand

Puyallup has long been one of the most stable appreciation markets in WA, and that trend continues.

Drivers of growth:

• Great neighborhood variety

• Easy freeway access

• Fair, restaurants, and entertainment

• Strong school districts

• Close to JBLM (huge for PCS families)

Any year, any cycle, Puyallup stays competitive.

Learn more about its neighborhoods here:
Living in Puyallup, WA

 3. DuPont — One of the Most Stable Appreciation Markets Near JBLM

DuPont consistently ranks as one of the strongest appreciation areas for:

• Military families

• Government employees

• Remote workers

• Buyers seeking walkability

Why it grows:

• Newer, planned communities

• Trails, lakes, and golf

• Close to JBLM’s gates

• Strong rental demand

• Consistent resale demand

Full guide here:
Living in Dupont, WA (2025 Guide)
 

4. Gig Harbor — High Appreciation Driven by Lifestyle Buyers

Gig Harbor is a luxury and lifestyle market, and in lifestyle markets, prices tend to rise quickly during strong economic cycles.

Why Gig Harbor grows:

• Waterfront appeal

• Views

• Safe, quiet communities

• Highly rated schools

• Charming downtown

• Luxury new construction

Gig Harbor buyers are often long-term owners, which stabilizes the market.

Explore more here:
Living in Gig Harbor, WA (2025 Guide)
 

5. Yelm — Fast-Growing, Affordable, and Popular for Remote Workers

Yelm has become one of the fastest-growing cities in Thurston County for several reasons:

• Affordable compared to Pierce/King

• New construction

• Growing retail & amenities

• Popular with military families

• Hybrid and remote workers flock here

Because it offers space and affordability, appreciation has remained consistently strong.

6. Orting — Big Demand for Views, Trails & Newer Communities

Orting has been a quiet appreciation winner for years.

Why:

• Views of Mt. Rainier

• Newer homes

• Small-town charm

• Great trails and outdoor access

• High demand for lifestyle neighborhoods

Full area breakdown:
Living in Orting, WA (2025 Guide)

 7. Edgewood — One of the Last “Hidden Gem” Appreciation Markets

Edgewood sits in an ideal location between:

• Puyallup

• Federal Way

• Tacoma

What people love:

• Newer luxury developments

• Quiet neighborhoods

• Great schools

• Commuter-friendly location

This city is expected to see rapid appreciation as more buyers price out of nearby areas.

Learn more:
Living in Edgewood, WA (2025 Guide)
 

8. Eatonville — High Appreciation for Buyers Wanting Land & Lifestyle

Eatonville has quietly become a fast-growth area because of:

• Rural lifestyle

• Mountain views

• Acreage

• Peace and privacy

• Newer subdivisions emerging

• Strong demand from remote workers and retirees

Eatonville guide here:
Living in Eatonville, WA (2025 Guide)

 9. Tacoma — Consistent Long-Term Appreciation Driven by Location

Tacoma remains one of Washington’s strongest long-term appreciation markets. Why?

• Proximity to Seattle

• Expanding job market

• North Tacoma demand

• Stadium/Proctor popularity

• Walkable neighborhoods

• Waterfront appeal

• Growing arts and food scene

Tacoma is a long-term equity builder.

Full Tacoma guide:
Living in Tacoma, WA (2025 Guide)

 10. The Cities Expected to Appreciate Fastest Going Into 2026

Based on buyer demand, affordability, migration patterns, and new construction trends, the cities with highest projected appreciation for 2025–2026 include:

Pierce County

• Bonney Lake

• Orting

• Puyallup

• Edgewood

• Tacoma

• DuPont

Thurston County

• Yelm

• Lacey (steadier growth but strong demand)

Kitsap County

• Silverdale

• Bremerton (emerging affordability market)

• Port Orchard

King County (Submarkets)

• Covington

• Maple Valley

• Black Diamond

These areas have the perfect mix of space, lifestyle appeal, affordability relative to nearby regions, strong school districts, and predictable future demand.

 If you’re planning to buy or sell in Washington and want help choosing a city that aligns with your budget, timeline, and long-term financial goals, I’d love to talk through it with you. Picking the right location is one of the best ways to protect your future equity — and I’m here to help you do it with confidence.

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