The city of Tumwater is located in Thurston County, WA. As of the 2020 Census, the population was 25,350. The city is situated near where the Deschutes River enters Budd Inlet, the southernmost point of Puget Sound; it also borders the state capital of Olympia. Tumwater is the oldest permanent Anglo-American settlement on Puget Sound.

Tumwater was originally called “New Market” by American settlers, but in 1845 the name was changed. Tumwatwer is derived from the Chinook word for “waterfall.” 

Tumwater, WA Real Estate 

As of January, 2023 the median home price in Tumwater, WA is $450,000.

Redfin describes the Tumwater Housing Market as “somewhat competitive.”

Notable Tumwater, WA neighborhoods include: 

  • Tumwater Hill
  • Littlerock
  • Tumwater Airport
  • Southeast Capitol Boulevard
  • Trosper
  • Deschutes
  • New Market
  • Mottman – Black Lake

Living in Tumwater, WA

Education 

K-12 students living in Tumwater are served by the Tumwater School District. Tumwater students attend these schools: 

Elementary Schools

  • Blake Lake
  • East Olympia
  • Littlerock
  • Michael T. Simmons
  • Peter G. Schmidt
  • Tumwater Hill

Middle Schools

  • Bush
  • Tumwater

High Schools

  • AG West Black Hills
  • Cascadia
  • Tumwater

Healthcare 

There are many great healthcare options in and around Tumwater. These options include: 

Attractions

There are many fun things to do in and around Tumwater including: 

  • Check out the Tumwater Farmers Market. It runs all summer long and happens on Sundays. They have Live music, fresh produce and local goods.  
  • The Lacey Museum is a great place to bring the whole family. This museum covers the unique history of Lacey and the south sound. The Museum is located in the 1928 Russell House,which at different times was; a residence, fire station, and Lacey’s first City Hall. 
  • Lacey Depot Park, City of Lacey’s 50th Anniversary Landmark Project, is a near replica of the original depot, which opened in 1891 in the same area. The Lacey Depot Site includes: – A Train-themed play structure, open year ’round to park visitors from 7:00 a.m. – dark, daily.
  • The Hands on Children’s Museum in Olympia is a great place to take your kids. They have 150 exhibits, 10 galleries, and a half-acre of outdoor play space. They also put on special events and camps. 

Looking for more information on moving to Tumwater? Our team of real estate agents is here to help. Call us, Shane Lewandwoski 253.617.5921 & Lori Lewandowski, at 253.617.5922 or send your inquiries via email to LoriLewandowski@gmail.com or shanel@johnlscott.com. Put your home search in the hands of  a real estate team with over 38 years of experience