What Is the Commute From Lacey to JBLM? (2025 Washington Guide for Military Families)

If you’re PCSing to Joint Base Lewis–McChord and considering Lacey as home, you’re not alone. Lacey is one of the most popular choices for military families because of its suburban feel, clean neighborhoods, newer developments, great parks, strong schools, and easy access to shopping and amenities.

But before choosing Lacey, the biggest question most families ask me is:

“What is the commute like from Lacey to JBLM?”

As someone who helps military families relocate every day, I know the commute isn’t just a number — it affects your daily routine, your sleep, your stress level, and how much time you get with your family.

This guide breaks down exactly what you should expect.

For a deeper overview of cities near base, here’s a helpful resource:
Housing Near JBLM: The Best Cities, Commutes & Neighborhoods for Military Families (2025 Guide)
 

1. How Far Is Lacey From JBLM?

The distance from Lacey to JBLM varies depending on where you live within Lacey, but on average:

Distance: 10–17 miles
Main route: I-5 North
Gate used: JBLM Lewis Main or Lewis North (depending on shift)

If you live in Hawks Prairie — the northern part of Lacey — you’ll be closer, which many military families prefer.

2. Average Commute Times (2025)

Here’s what most military families experience:

Light Traffic:

15–20 minutes

Typical Traffic:

20–30 minutes

Heavy Traffic (rush hour or gate backups):

30–45 minutes

Traffic can shift depending on:

• Time of day

• Construction along I-5

• Weather (especially rainy season)

• Gate congestion

If your schedule is flexible, or if you’re able to stagger arrival times, the commute becomes much more manageable.

For a broader understanding of JBLM patterns, this guide is extremely helpful:
PCS to Washington: The Complete Timeline Every Military Family Needs (JBLM Edition)
 

3. Which Part of Lacey Has the Best Commute?

Hawks Prairie (North Lacey)

This is the #1 pick for families who want the shortest commute.
You’re minutes from I-5 and close to shopping, trails, and new developments.

Central Lacey

Still convenient — expect a 5–10 minute add-on depending on traffic lights and school zones.

South Lacey

Beautiful, established neighborhoods — but you’ll feel the extra distance in commute time.

Many buyers choose Lacey because it blends suburban calm with easy highway access.

4. Best Times to Leave Lacey for JBLM

After years of working with military families, these windows tend to be the most predictable:

Best Times:

• Before 6:15 AM

• Between 8:45–9:30 AM

• Early afternoon (1:00–2:30 PM)

Slower Times:

• 6:30–8:30 AM

• 3:00–5:30 PM

Remember: Gate backups can add 5–20 minutes, depending on base security and the time of month.

5. What Military Families Say About the Commute

Families who choose Lacey usually prioritize:

• Newer homes

• Strong schools

• Parks

• Quiet, clean neighborhoods

• Community-oriented feel

Many tell me that even with the commute, they appreciate coming home to a calmer, more suburban environment.

You can explore Lacey and nearby cities here:
Where to Live When You're Moving to Washington for Work: Commute Times, School Districts & Local Culture Explained
 

6. Pros of Living in Lacey While Stationed at JBLM

✔ Cleaner suburban feel compared to many Pierce County options
✔ Strong schools in North Thurston Public Schools
✔ Newer construction and master-planned communities
✔ Less congestion than living near South Tacoma or Lakewood
✔ Excellent parks and trails
✔ Strong sense of community

For many families, the tradeoff of a slightly longer commute is worth the stability and comfort.

7. Cons of the Lacey to JBLM Commute

While many families love Lacey, it’s important to be aware of:

❌ I-5 bottlenecks, especially during rush hour
❌ Gate delays, depending on shift schedules
❌ Longer commute compared to Dupont or Lakewood

If commute time is your #1 priority, you might consider exploring Dupont or Steilacoom — both options covered in the blog below:
Housing Near JBLM (2025 Guide)

8. How to Choose Between Lacey, Dupont, Lakewood, and Spanaway

The cities near JBLM each offer something unique:

Lacey → suburban, clean, great schools

Dupont → closest commute + walkability

Steilacoom → historic, quiet, waterfront charm

Spanaway/Graham → affordability + space

Lakewood → convenience + specific stable pockets

If affordability is part of the equation, this is also helpful:
Rent vs. Buy Near JBLM: How Military Families Choose the Right Path During a PCS
 

9. Is Lacey a Good Fit for Your Family While Stationed at JBLM?

Lacey might be the right choice if you want:

• A quiet, suburban environment

• Newer homes or larger floor plans

• Community parks and trails

• Strong schools

• An active but calm lifestyle

It may not be the right fit if:

• You need the shortest possible commute

• You prefer more rural acreage (Yelm or Graham may fit better)

• You want walkability (Dupont is better for this)

10. Final Thoughts: What Is the Commute Really Like?

The real answer:

Most families experience a 20–35 minute commute from Lacey to JBLM, depending on the gate and time of day.

It’s manageable, predictable, and for many — absolutely worth the lifestyle Lacey offers.

If you're planning a PCS to JBLM, I’d love to help you decide whether Lacey is the right fit — and build a plan that works for your commute, lifestyle, and budget.

Whenever you're ready, we can walk through neighborhoods together and find the pocket that feels like home.

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