What should you know before moving to Steilacoom, WA?
Steilacoom is a small Puget Sound town in Pierce County, incorporated in 1854, and is known as Washington’s oldest incorporated town. It has just over 6,000 residents, a historic district with homes and buildings from the 1800s, waterfront parks, and Pierce County ferry service to Anderson Island. It sits next to Lakewood and DuPont, with access to JBLM and I-5. Housing is mostly established single-family homes, including historic properties that may come with extra upkeep and review requirements. Schools are generally in the Steilacoom Historical School District; verify by address.
Steilacoom has a feel that’s hard to find anywhere else in Pierce County: a small, walkable historic town on the water, minutes from Lakewood and JBLM. Buyers who choose it often want character, views, and a quieter pace.
Here’s an objective look at housing, daily life, and what to verify. For other options, visit our Pierce County Relocation Hub or our Steilacoom community page.
Quick facts
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Incorporated | 1854, Washington’s oldest incorporated town |
| Population | Just over 6,000 |
| Location | Puget Sound shoreline, next to Lakewood and DuPont |
| Ferry | Pierce County ferry to Anderson Island |
| Schools | Steilacoom Historical School District (verify by address) |
| Nearby | JBLM, Lakewood, University Place, I-5 |
Housing in Steilacoom
- Historic homes in and around the historic district, some dating to the 1800s
- Mid-century and later single-family homes on established lots
- View homes with Puget Sound, island, and Olympic Mountain views
- Limited new construction, since the town is small and mostly built out
Buying a historic or older home
Older and historic homes can be wonderful, but they need extra diligence:
- Historic review: Exterior changes in historic areas may require town review. Ask the Town of Steilacoom what applies to the address before you plan updates.
- Systems: Check electrical, plumbing, roof, foundation, and heating carefully.
- Lead paint: Homes built before 1978 come with a federal lead disclosure.
- Sewer scope: Recommended for older side sewers.
- Slope and drainage: Some view lots sit on hillsides above the water.
Daily life and the outdoors
- Waterfront parks and walks along Puget Sound
- The historic district, with the Steilacoom Historical Museum and the Steilacoom Tribal Cultural Center and Museum
- Anderson Island ferry for day trips and island living
- Community events typical of a small town
Getting around
- JBLM: Close by, a reason many military families consider Steilacoom. Here’s our PCS guide to buying near JBLM.
- I-5: Reached through Lakewood or DuPont
- Sounder: The nearest station is Lakewood Station
- Pierce Transit: Local bus routes connect to Lakewood and Tacoma
Test your commute at rush hour, especially if you’re heading through the I-5 corridor near JBLM.
Schools: verify by address
Steilacoom is generally served by the Steilacoom Historical School District, which also serves nearby communities. Boundaries can be tricky near town edges, so verify. Here’s how to verify school boundaries and enrollment.
How Steilacoom compares
| If you’re also considering… | Key differences to weigh |
|---|---|
| Lakewood | Larger city, several lakes, Sounder station, more housing variety |
| University Place | Larger, Chambers Bay park, more condos and townhomes |
| DuPont | Newer planned neighborhoods, close to I-5 and JBLM |
If Lakewood is on your list too, see our guide to moving to Lakewood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Steilacoom the oldest town in Washington?
Steilacoom was incorporated in 1854 and is known as Washington’s oldest incorporated town.
What school district serves Steilacoom, WA?
Steilacoom is generally served by the Steilacoom Historical School District. Verify the school assignment for any specific address with the district.
Is there a ferry from Steilacoom?
Yes. Pierce County operates ferry service from Steilacoom to Anderson Island.
How far is Steilacoom from JBLM?
Steilacoom is next to Lakewood and DuPont, close to JBLM. Commute times depend on the gate and traffic, so test your route at rush hour.
Are there restrictions on remodeling historic homes in Steilacoom?
Exterior changes in historic areas may require town review. Contact the Town of Steilacoom about the specific address before planning work.
Is Steilacoom the right fit?
Steilacoom offers history, water views, and a small-town pace near JBLM and Lakewood. The right home comes down to housing style, upkeep, and commute.
If you’re planning a move to Pierce County, text RELOCATE to 253-677-5765 for a personalized consultation. I’ll help you compare Steilacoom with nearby communities and plan your tours.
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.
Researched October 13, 2026. Verify historic review rules, schools, and services for the exact address.
