McChord Air Force Base (AFB), located in Pierce County, Washington, is a significant military installation that offers a unique blend of suburban lifestyles and military community. The surrounding areas are characterized by beautiful landscapes, access to outdoor activities, and a friendly atmosphere. This article delves into the best residential neighborhoods in McChord AFB, highlighting their unique characteristics, housing options, average prices, and amenities.
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Lakewood
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Lakewood is a vibrant suburban community near McChord AFB, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, numerous parks, and access to excellent schools. It offers a mix of residential options suitable for military families and civilians.
Characteristics of the Lakewood
* Culture: Community-oriented with local events and festivals
* Transportation: Easy access to public transport and major highways
* Services: Shopping centers, restaurants, and healthcare facilities
* Environment: Friendly and family-oriented
Housing Options in the Lakewood
Single-family homes, Townhouses, Apartments
Average Home Prices in the Lakewood
* Buying: $350,000 – $500,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $2,500/month
Tacoma
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Tacoma is a dynamic city located south of McChord AFB, featuring a diverse cultural scene including museums, theaters, and waterfront attractions. It's ideal for those who appreciate urban living combined with suburban convenience.
Characteristics of the Tacoma
* Culture: Rich in arts, culture, and history
* Transportation: Public transport options available, well-connected roads
* Services: Wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options
* Environment: Urban yet accessible and welcoming
Housing Options in the Tacoma
Single-family homes, Condos, Apartments
Average Home Prices in the Tacoma
* Buying: $300,000 – $450,000
* Renting: $1,600 – $2,300/month
Puyallup
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Puyallup is known for its charming downtown, excellent schools, and annual fair. This area offers a strong sense of community and various housing options appealing to families and military personnel.
Characteristics of the Puyallup
* Culture: Community events, farmer's markets, and local fairs
* Transportation: Strong public transport network with easy access to major highways
* Services: Grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and recreation areas
* Environment: Community-focused and vibrant
Housing Options in the Puyallup
Single-family homes, Apartments, New developments
Average Home Prices in the Puyallup
* Buying: $350,000 – $475,000
* Renting: $1,700 – $2,200/month
Spanaway
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Spanaway is a growing community known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, including parks and lakes. It is a quieter area, appealing to those looking for a more relaxed lifestyle while still being close to military bases.
Characteristics of the Spanaway
* Culture: Nature-oriented with outdoor community activities
* Transportation: Limited public transportation, dependence on personal vehicles
* Services: Local shops, parks, and recreational facilities
* Environment: Peaceful and rural
Housing Options in the Spanaway
Single-family homes, Larger estates, Modular homes
Average Home Prices in the Spanaway
* Buying: $280,000 – $400,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,000/month
University Place
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University Place is an upscale residential area characterized by its excellent schools and proximity to commercial centers. It’s a great choice for families and professionals who appreciate higher-end living.
Characteristics of the University Place
* Culture: Educated community with emphasis on arts and education
* Transportation: Access to public transport with well-maintained roads
* Services: High-quality schools, shopping, and dining options
* Environment: Affluent and family-friendly
Housing Options in the University Place
Luxury homes, Single-family residences, Townhomes
Average Home Prices in the University Place
* Buying: $400,000 – $600,000
* Renting: $2,000 – $3,000/month
Steilacoom
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Steilacoom is a picturesque small town with a rich history and waterfront views. It offers a blend of historical charm, scenic beauty, and community events perfect for families and retirees.
Characteristics of the Steilacoom
* Culture: Historic town, strong community engagement
* Transportation: Limited public transport, primarily car-based
* Services: Local dining and shopping, parks near the waterfront
* Environment: Charming and community-focused
Housing Options in the Steilacoom
Historic homes, New builds, Waterfront properties
Average Home Prices in the Steilacoom
* Buying: $450,000 – $650,000
* Renting: $2,200 – $3,000/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in McChord AFB:
The best residential areas near McChord AFB include Lakewood, Tacoma, Puyallup, Spanaway, University Place, and Steilacoom.
Lakewood and Puyallup are particularly noted for their family-friendly environment, with access to excellent schools and community events.
Spanaway generally offers more affordable housing options compared to other nearby areas.
Tacoma boasts a wide range of amenities including shopping, dining, cultural institutions like museums, and parks.
Yes, public transportation is available, especially in Lakewood and Tacoma, making it easy to navigate the region.
Average rental prices range from $1,500 to $3,000 per month, depending on the area and the type of apartment.
Spanaway and Lakewood are known for their parks and outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and water activities.
Steilacoom has a charming, historic atmosphere with a strong sense of community and beautiful waterfront views.
Yes, areas like University Place and Puyallup are known for their highly-rated schools and educational facilities.
Single-family homes are the most common type of housing, along with townhouses and apartments in more urban areas.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in McChord AFB:
McChord AFB and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of residential neighborhoods, catering to various lifestyles and preferences. From the family-oriented communities of Lakewood and Puyallup to the urban appeal of Tacoma, each neighborhood exhibits its unique charm. Whether you seek affordability in Spanaway, luxury in University Place, or the historic character of Steilacoom, the region provides diverse options for potential homeowners and renters. Additionally, with strong community ties, excellent amenities, and convenient transportation, McChord AFB and its neighboring towns present an inviting opportunity for anyone looking to settle in this beautiful part of Washington State.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.