Neighborhoods
DuPont
Off-Post$1,900–$2,400/mo
Planned community, closest to South Gate, very popular with families
Lakewood
Off-Post$1,600–$2,100/mo
Adjacent to base, mixed neighborhood, easy commute, check area carefully
Spanaway
Off-Post$1,700–$2,200/mo
Southeast of base, more affordable, growing area
Steilacoom
Off-Post$2,000–$2,600/mo
Historic waterfront town, excellent schools, scenic, higher price point
Schools
Steilacoom Historical
Grades K–12
Top-rated small district in Pierce County, strong academics
DuPont Schools (Steilacoom)
Grades K–12
DuPont feeds into Steilacoom district, great choice for families there
Bethel School District
Grades K–12
Serves Spanaway/Roy areas, large district, more variable ratings
Housing Intel
On-Post Housing
Hunt Military Communities manages on-base housing. High demand — apply early, especially for larger homes.
Off-Post Rental Market
Pierce County market is competitive. Homes go fast in DuPont and Steilacoom. BAH is generous but rents have risen sharply.
Commute
I-5 corridor is heavily congested during peak hours. Tacoma Narrows Bridge can add time. DuPont and Steilacoom minimize freeway exposure.
Installation Highlights
- Mt. Rainier visible on clear days — stunning Pacific Northwest setting
- 45 minutes from Seattle, 30 min from Tacoma
- No state income tax in Washington
- Access to world-class skiing, hiking, and kayaking nearby
- Joint base with both Army and Air Force presence