Where Should I Live Near JBLM If I Want a Short Commute? (2025 Guide)
For so many military families moving to Joint Base Lewis–McChord, the biggest question is simple:
“Where can we live so the commute isn’t miserable?”
And it makes complete sense. Between training schedules, long shifts, childcare pickups, and trying to build a normal rhythm in a brand-new place, commute time matters. In Pierce County, even a few miles can mean a very different day-to-day experience depending on the gates you use and the traffic pattern.
As someone who works with dozens of incoming PCS families every year, I see the same thing:
When the commute feels manageable, everything else about life in Washington becomes easier.
Below is a warm, practical breakdown of the best cities and neighborhoods for keeping your JBLM commute as short—and predictable—as possible.
1. Dupont: The Undisputed Champion of Short JBLM Commutes
If proximity is your top priority, Dupont is the closest residential city to JBLM. Many families choose it for this exact reason.
Why people love Dupont:
5–10 minutes to JBLM’s I-5 gate
Master-planned neighborhoods with sidewalks, trails, and parks
Strong sense of community
Predictable traffic patterns
Want a deeper look at what life here feels like? You can explore Living in Dupont, WA: Neighborhoods, Schools, Commutes & Community Life (2025 Guide)
2. Lakewood: Multiple Gate Options & Fast Access
Lakewood is another top choice because it connects to multiple JBLM gates, giving families options based on their unit location and daily schedule.
Why many military families choose Lakewood:
Very close to the McChord side of JBLM
Lakes, parks, and quiet pockets tucked away from busier areas
More housing variety than Dupont
Learn more in Living in Lakewood, WA: Lakes, Neighborhoods, Commutes & Lifestyle (2025 Guide)
3. Steilacoom: Waterfront Charm + Short Commute
Steilacoom is one of Washington’s hidden gems. If you want charm, tight-knit community energy, and water views, this is a rare combination just minutes from JBLM.
Why Steilacoom works so well:
A short, straightforward drive to base
Historic waterfront lifestyle
Great place for those who want peaceful surroundings
Take a closer look: Living in Steilacoom, WA: Waterfront Views, Historic Charm & Lifestyle (2025 Guide)
4. Tacoma’s South End & Central Tacoma: Balanced Commute + Urban Convenience
If you're craving walkability, culture, restaurants, and a more urban feel—but you still need a manageable commute—South Tacoma and Central Tacoma offer the best blend.
Why Tacoma might be right for you:
15–25 minutes to JBLM depending on traffic
Quick freeway access
Historic homes, craftsman architecture, and diverse communities
Close to shopping (Costco, Target, Tacoma Mall, etc.)
Tacoma overview: Living in Tacoma, WA: Neighborhoods, Schools, Lifestyle & Real Estate (2025 Guide)
5. Puyallup’s South Hill: More Space With a Reasonable Commute
Many families who want newer homes, bigger yards, and great shopping look at South Hill—especially those commuting to the East Gate of JBLM.
Why South Hill works well:
25–35 minutes to JBLM (depending on traffic)
Tons of shopping and recreation
Larger neighborhoods with more housing variety
Explore South Hill here:
Living in South Hill, WA: Schools, Neighborhoods, Commutes & Real-Life Lifestyle (2025 Guide)
6. Spanaway & Graham: Affordability + Commute Options
If you’re looking for affordability without sacrificing too much commute time, Spanaway and Graham are incredibly popular among military families.
Why people choose Spanaway/Graham:
20–40 minutes to JBLM depending on the gate
More space for the price
New construction options
Dive into this full guide:
Living in Spanaway & Graham, WA: Affordability, New Construction, Schools & Lifestyle (2025 Guide)
7. Orting, Eatonville & Rural Pierce County: Quiet Living With Commute Trade-Offs
Some families ask for acreage, more space, and a quieter pace of life. If that sounds like you, the trade-off is often commute time—though many still find it worth it.
Commute notes:
Usually 35–55 minutes depending on location
Great for those who work shift schedules or don’t commute daily
Beautiful mountain views and small-town feel
Helpful guides:
Living in Eatonville, WA: Small-Town Rural Living, Mountain Views & Outdoor Lifestyle (2025 Guide)
Living in Orting, WA: Mountain Views, Neighborhoods, Schools & Lifestyle (2025 Guide)
8. What Military Families Should Consider Beyond Commute Time
Even though commute is usually the #1 priority, you’ll also want to consider:
Schools
Families often compare areas like Steilacoom, DuPont, Puyallup, and UP.
Read: Is University Place Worth the Price? (2025 Guide)
Budget
Different cities offer very different price points.
Start here: Most Affordable Areas in Pierce County — Ranked for 2025
New vs. Established Neighborhoods
If you want more space, newer homes, and predictable HOA-style neighborhoods, explore Bonney Lake, Spanaway/Graham, and Edgewood.
Guide example: Living in Bonney Lake, WA: Neighborhoods, Schools, New Construction & Lifestyle (2025 Guide)
Lifestyle Fit
Your daily rhythm matters as much as the drive.
For a big-picture view:
The Best Neighborhoods Near JBLM for Military Families (2025 Guide)
9. Shortest-Commute Cities Ranked (At a Glance)
1. Dupont — 5–10 minutes
2. Lakewood — 10–20 minutes
3. Steilacoom — 10–25 minutes
4. South & Central Tacoma — 15–25 minutes
5. Spanaway — 20–30 minutes
6. Graham — 30–40 minutes
7. Puyallup (South Hill) — 25–35 minutes
8. Eatonville / Orting / Rural Areas — 35–55 minutes
Where you land often comes down to your personality, commute schedule, and lifestyle priorities.
10. Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
Moving to Washington—especially during a PCS—comes with a lot of uncertainty. And choosing the right place to live near JBLM is more than just a Google search; it’s about finding what actually fits your family, your schedule, and your lifestyle.
If you're planning a move to Washington and want a commute that won’t take over your day, I’d love to help you build a plan that makes this transition feel easier from the very beginning.
Whenever you're ready, I’m here to help you make Washington feel like home.
Written by: Lani Fisher — Washington Realtor Helping Everyday Buyers & Sellers With Confidence