Lakewood or University Place: how do they compare?
They’re neighboring cities on the west side of Pierce County with different strengths. Lakewood (about 63,600 residents in 2020) has several lakes, a Sounder station, JBLM next door, and the Clover Park School District. University Place (about 34,900) is smaller, borders Chambers Bay and Puget Sound, and has its own University Place School District. From July through September 2026, the NWMLS residential median was $534,000 in Lakewood (15 median days on market) and $688,750 in University Place (17 days).
Lakewood and University Place share a border, and buyers moving to the west side of Pierce County often tour both — especially military families and commuters heading to Tacoma or I-5.
Here’s an objective side-by-side. For more options, visit our Pierce County Relocation Hub.
At a glance
| Lakewood | University Place | |
|---|---|---|
| Population (2020) | About 63,600 | About 34,900 |
| Median residential sale price (Jul–Sep 2026) | $534,000 | $688,750 |
| Median days on market | 15 | 17 |
| School district | Clover Park School District | University Place School District |
| Water and outdoors | American, Gravelly, Steilacoom lakes; Fort Steilacoom Park | Chambers Bay, Puget Sound shoreline, trails |
| Transit | Sounder at Lakewood Station | Pierce Transit bus routes |
| Main routes | I-5, SR 512 | Bridgeport Way, SR 16, I-5 |
Market data: NWMLS InfoSparks, residential, rolling three months ending September 2026. Population: 2020 U.S. Census.
Housing differences
Lakewood
- Lakefront and lake-access homes on several lakes
- Mid-century homes on larger lots
- Condos, townhomes, and apartments near Lakewood Towne Center and transit
- A wide price range, from entry-level to luxury
University Place
- Established neighborhoods built mainly from the 1950s through 1990s
- View homes overlooking Puget Sound and the Narrows
- Condos and townhomes near Chambers Bay and the town center
Read more about moving to Lakewood and moving to University Place.
Commute and daily life
- To JBLM: Lakewood borders the base, with quick I-5 access to the main gates. University Place is a short drive further.
- To Seattle: Lakewood has the edge with Sounder service from Lakewood Station.
- To Tacoma and Gig Harbor: University Place sits closer to downtown Tacoma’s west side and the Narrows Bridge.
- Outdoors: Lakewood centers on its lakes and Fort Steilacoom Park; University Place on Chambers Bay’s trails and shoreline.
Which fits you?
| If you want… | Look closer at… |
|---|---|
| Lakefront living | Lakewood |
| Sounder commuter rail | Lakewood |
| A lower median price | Lakewood |
| Puget Sound views and Chambers Bay | University Place |
| Quick access to the Narrows Bridge | University Place |
Also comparing nearby cities? See Lakewood vs. Spanaway and Gig Harbor vs. University Place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University Place more expensive than Lakewood?
On average, yes. From July through September 2026, the NWMLS residential median was $688,750 in University Place and $534,000 in Lakewood. Lakefront homes in Lakewood can sell well above the median.
What school districts serve Lakewood and University Place?
Lakewood is served mainly by the Clover Park School District, and University Place by the University Place School District. Verify school assignment by address.
Which is closer to JBLM, Lakewood or University Place?
Lakewood borders JBLM and has quick I-5 access to the main gates. University Place is a short drive further away.
Does University Place have a Sounder station?
No. The nearest Sounder stations are in Lakewood and Tacoma. University Place is served by Pierce Transit buses.
Are there lakefront homes in Lakewood?
Yes. Lakewood has several lakes, including American Lake, Gravelly Lake, and Lake Steilacoom, with lakefront and lake-access homes.
Lakes or Sound? Tour both
Lakewood and University Place sit side by side but offer different settings and price points. Drive your commute, walk the neighborhoods, and compare specific homes.
If you’re considering a move to Pierce County, text RELOCATE to 253-677-5765 for a personalized consultation covering neighborhoods, housing options, and what life here actually looks like.
About Josh Barnard
Josh Barnard is the founder of The Barnard Group and has spent over 20 years helping families navigate some of life’s biggest moments through real estate. Known for his “Work Hard. Be Kind.” approach, Josh combines expert market knowledge, innovative marketing, and genuine care to help homeowners make confident decisions about their next chapter. Whether someone is buying their first home, moving up, downsizing, or relocating to Pierce County, his mission is simple: serve people well, create unforgettable experiences, and help families build a life they love.
Market data: NWMLS InfoSparks, residential, Lakewood and University Place, rolling three months ending September 2026. Population: 2020 U.S. Census. Researched October 27, 2026. Verify schools and commute times for the exact address.
