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

Puyallup is one of the most popular cities for military families relocating to Joint Base Lewis–McChord. With strong schools, established neighborhoods, shopping, parks, and a classic suburban feel, it’s easy to see why so many families gravitate toward this area.

But before choosing Puyallup, the big question most families ask is:

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

Your commute affects your daily rhythm, the time you spend with family, and how predictable your mornings feel — especially during deployment cycles or shift changes.

Let’s break down exactly what to expect.

If you want a broader look at top cities near base, here’s a great resource:
Housing Near JBLM: The Best Cities, Commutes & Neighborhoods for Military Families (2025 Guide)
 

1. How Far Is Puyallup From JBLM?

The commute varies depending on whether you live in:

• Downtown Puyallup

• South Hill

• North Hill

• Sunrise

• Silver Creek

• Frederickson-bordering neighborhoods

On average:

Distance: 12–22 miles
Main routes:

• I-5

• WA-512 → I-5

• Canyon Rd → 176th → JBLM East Gate

Because Puyallup is spread out, commute time depends heavily on which part you choose.

For a lifestyle and neighborhood overview, check out:
Living in Puyallup, WA (2025 Guide)
 

2. Average Commute Times (2025)

Light Traffic:

18–25 minutes

Standard Traffic:

25–40 minutes

Heavy Traffic (morning rush hour or evening backups):

40–60 minutes+

South Hill and Sunrise often sit at the higher end of these ranges due to:

• Local school traffic

• Major roads like Meridian

• Stoplights

• Increased suburban growth

But many families still choose Puyallup because what they gain in lifestyle outweighs the commute.

3. The Easiest Commute From Puyallup to JBLM

Frederickson-Adjacent Neighborhoods

Homes near 176th or Canyon Road offer the easiest JBLM commute. These areas feed directly into East Gate routes and avoid some of the worst I-5 traffic.

Downtown Puyallup / North Puyallup

Great for Sounder train access (for spouses who commute north), but for JBLM, it puts you slightly farther from base.

South Hill / Sunrise

Beautiful, newer neighborhoods — but the morning commute often involves school zones and heavier traffic.

For more guidance on the overall area:
Living in Puyallup, WA (2025 Guide)

4. Best Times to Leave Puyallup for JBLM

Family feedback and years of PCS experience show these windows work best:

Smoothest Times:

• Before 6:10 AM

• Between 9:00–10:00 AM

• Early afternoon (1:00–2:30 PM)

Slower Times:

• 6:30–8:30 AM

• 3:00–5:30 PM (especially with school traffic)

If you’re entering base through East Gate, your commute will feel more predictable than those approaching via I-5.

For broader PCS planning, here's a helpful guide:
PCS to Washington: The Complete Timeline Every Military Family Needs (JBLM Edition)
 

5. Why So Many Military Families Choose Puyallup

Even with a variable commute, Puyallup continues to be a top choice because of:

• Highly regarded schools

• Established neighborhoods

• Parks and community programs

• Newer developments in South Hill/Sunrise

• Strong resale value and stability

• Safe-feeling suburban layout

You can see how Puyallup compares to Tacoma here:
Cost of Living in Tacoma vs. Puyallup
 

6. Commute Considerations Most Families Don’t Think About

When exploring Puyallup, I walk clients through:

• School zones (slowdowns during drop-off/pick-up)

• Meridian traffic

• The difference between the Sunrise plateau vs. South Hill proper

• Alternative JBLM routes through Spanaway or Frederickson

• Shift changes on base

• Time-of-month gate impact

Many families are surprised how different the commute feels depending on which pocket of Puyallup they choose.

7. Alternatives to Driving the Entire Route

Sounder Train (for spouses working north)

Not for JBLM commuters, but great if one household member works in Tacoma or Seattle.

Vanpools

Common in South Hill/Sunrise areas.

Offset shifts

Many JBLM personnel adjust their start/stop times to avoid the heaviest I-5 congestion.

If you're deciding between buying or renting in the area, this guide can help:
Rent vs. Buy Near JBLM: How Military Families Choose the Right Path During a PCS
 

8. Puyallup vs. Other JBLM-Friendly Cities

Here’s how Puyallup compares to popular alternatives:

Puyallup

Best for schools, suburban comfort, large home options.

Lacey

Best for clean suburban living + strong parks.

Dupont

Best for shortest commute + walkability.

Steilacoom

Best for peace, charm, and waterfront access.

Spanaway/Graham

Best for space + affordability.

Explore these options here:
Housing Near JBLM (2025 Guide)

9. Should You Live in Puyallup While Stationed at JBLM?

Consider Puyallup if you want:

• Community-focused neighborhoods

• Strong schools

• Spacious homes

• A familiar suburban feel

• Good long-term resale value

You may want to explore other areas if:

• Commute time is your top priority

• You prefer walkability

• You want a shorter drive to base gates

• You prefer rural living

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

Here’s the realistic 2025 answer:

The commute from Puyallup to JBLM averages 25–45 minutes, depending on where you live and what time you leave.

Families choose Puyallup because of the lifestyle — and decide the commute is a worthwhile tradeoff.

If you're planning a PCS to JBLM, I’d love to help you compare neighborhoods, commute routes, and find the home that truly fits your family.

Whenever you're ready, we can walk through Puyallup and nearby cities together and create a plan that makes the most sense for your schedule and lifestyle.

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