Located about 31 miles from Seattle, this city in Pierce County has an estimated population of 63,612 and has a land area of 17.17 square miles. A suburb of Tacoma, many of its residents commute to work in the city, but those same people will tell you that there’s simply no place like home.
This idyllic community offers green spaces, golf courses, stunning homes, and a vibrant town center. It’s essentially a self-contained community despite being a short drive away from Downtown Tacoma. Find out what makes Lakewood an in-demand housing market.
Landmarks include:
- Lakewood Towne Center
- Lakewood Library
- American Lake
Historical highlights
Formerly known as “The Prairie”, Lakewood was home to the Steilacoom and Nisqually who roamed and hunted in the 20-mile stretch of land filled with Douglas firs and oak trees before the arrival of white settlers, who were similarly drawn to the area’s natural bounty.
It became one of the Hudson Bay Company’s lucrative fur-trading operations in 1833. Settlers would also begin farming the fertile lands of The Prairie as well as building magnificent lakefront estates such as Thornewood and Lakewold Gardens.
Lakewood incorporated as a city in 1996. Several high-profile developments, such as the opening of the Tacoma Golf and Country Club, would soon follow, designating the city as a playground for the affluent.
Lakewood, WA Real Estate
The housing market offers a wide selection of single-family homes and townhomes for buyers to choose from. The most prevalent architectural styles include Ranch, Craftsman, Contemporary, Tudor, and Traditional. The most coveted homes are lakefront properties with private docks, viewing decks, and fantastic views of the water.
Redfin describes the Lakewood housing market as “most competitive” with properties getting multiple offers. The most desirable homes in the area can sell for up to 4% above asking price.
Notable Lakewood, WA neighborhoods include:
- JBLM North
- Tillicum
- Clinton Park
- Lake City
- Interlaken
Living in Lakewood, WA
The overall cost of living in Lakewood is generally lower than Seattle and Tacoma. Housing, groceries, and transportation are among residents’ biggest expenses. According to PayScale, Lakewood housing costs are 9% lower than the national average.
Clover Park School District serves students in PK and K-12. Some of Lakewood’s public schools include:
- Idlewild Elementary School
- Lake Louise Elementary School
- Oakbrook Elementary School
- Custer Elementary School
- Lakeview Hope Academy
- Lakes High School
Major employers include:
- Pierce Transit
- Pease Construction
- Pettit Oil
- Ram Restaurant & Brewery
- Lakes High School
Healthcare facilities in and around Lakewood, WA include:
- MultiCare Lakewood Urgent Care
- St. Clare Hospital
- Multicare University Place Urgent Care
- CityMD University Place
- U.S. HealthWorks Medical Group
- MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care at Tacoma
- MultiCare Allenmore Hospital
- St. Joseph Medical Center
- MultiCare Spanaway Urgent Care
- MultiCare West Tacoma Urgent Care
- Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital
- MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital
Popular attractions in and around Lakewood, WA:
- Lakewold Gardens on Gravelly Lake
- Thornewood Castle
- Fort Steilacoom Park
- American Lake Park
- Edgewater Park
- Harry Todd Community Park
- American Lake Veterans Golf Course
- RMG Club Oakbrook
- Fort Steilacoom Golf Course
- South Puget Sound Urban Wildlife Interpretive Center
- Pierce College Planetarium
Closing
If you find yourself hopelessly drawn to Lakewood’s tranquil atmosphere, I’d be happy to assist you. I’m Lori Lewandowski, a real estate expert with over 13 years of experience in King and Pierce counties. A full-time, full-service agent, I’m at your service 24/7.
My work has placed me at the Top 1% for Sales in my service areas.
As a professional, my real estate designations include:
- Certified Buyers Designation
- Certified Sellers Designation
You can reach me at 253.617.5922 for more information about Lakewood real estate, lifestyle, and other concerns. You can also send me a message at LoriLewandowski@gmail.com.
If you’re serious about buying, I invite you to explore nearby communities like Black Diamond, Kent, and Eatonville.
