Tacoma, the third-largest city in Washington state with a population of around 225,000, has historically had a higher-than-average crime rate. However, this rate has been decreasing due to a crime reduction plan implemented by the Tacoma Police Department. Like any city, there are areas to be cautious of, such as Salishan, but Tacoma also boasts many safe, family-friendly neighborhoods. Notable areas include the North End (near the University of Puget Sound), West End, Old Town, and Fircrest, all of which are popular for their welcoming communities and quality of life.
Several neighborhoods around JBLM are popular with Canadian families, offering a variety of living options to suit different preferences. Notable areas include:
- DuPont: A small city near JBLM known for its close-knit, military-friendly community.
- Lacey: Located 15–20 minutes south, Lacey is family-friendly, with parks, good schools, and plenty of shopping.
- Steilacoom: A historic town offering charm and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Olympia: The state capital, located slightly further south, features vibrant cultural attractions, parks, and amenities.
- Puyallup: About 25 minutes east, Puyallup boasts a charming downtown, parks, and shopping malls.
- Bonney Lake: Approximately 30–40 minutes away, this suburban area offers great schools, outdoor recreation, and proximity to Mount Rainier.
- Yelm: Ideal for those seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle, located 30–45 minutes from JBLM.
While these areas are well-suited for families, some places require more careful consideration:
- Lakewood: Adjacent to JBLM, Lakewood offers diverse housing and a strong connection to the military community but has areas of concern.
- Spanaway and the South End: These areas come with higher cautionary advisories and should be researched thoroughly before committing.
Although Tacoma offers urban amenities like cultural attractions, dining, and shopping just 20 minutes north of JBLM, many families choose to live in surrounding suburbs due to traffic along I-5.
For more details, visit JBLM Housing's Nearby Cities Guide.
