How do you commute from Orting to Seattle, Tacoma, or JBLM?
Nearly every Orting commute starts on SR 162, the valley highway north toward Sumner and Puyallup. From there, Seattle, Kent, and Renton commuters typically take SR 167 north; Tacoma and JBLM commuters often take SR 512 west to I-5; and Bonney Lake and Auburn trips use SR 410. Some JBLM and Graham-bound drivers head west over the hill toward South Hill instead. Orting doesn’t have a train station, but Sounder stations in Sumner and Puyallup are about 10 miles away. Peak-hour times vary a lot, so drive your route before you buy.
Orting gives you small-town living, mountain views, and the Foothills Trail. The trade-off is that it sits at the far end of the valley, so your commute starts with the same road almost every morning.
Here’s how Orting commuters actually get to work, and how to choose a home that makes it easier. For more on the town, see our Orting community page and the Pierce County Relocation Hub.
Routes by destination
| Destination | Common route | Approx. distance |
|---|---|---|
| Puyallup / Sumner | SR 162 north | About 8–12 miles |
| Kent / Renton | SR 162 → SR 167 north | About 25–30 miles |
| Downtown Seattle | SR 162 → SR 167 → I-405 or I-5 | About 40–45 miles |
| Downtown Tacoma | SR 162 → SR 167 or SR 512 → I-5 | About 20–25 miles |
| JBLM | SR 162 → SR 512 → I-5, or west toward South Hill | About 25–30 miles |
| Bonney Lake / Auburn | SR 162 → SR 410 | About 10–20 miles |
Distances are approximate and vary by neighborhood and destination. Check current conditions with WSDOT.
The SR 162 factor
SR 162 is the main way in and out of Orting, and morning traffic builds heading toward Sumner and Puyallup. Homes on the north end of town shave a few minutes off the first leg. Buyers are also watching the SR 167 Completion Project, which is building a new connection from Puyallup to I-5 and the Port of Tacoma. Here’s what it may mean for Orting real estate.
Transit options
- Sounder: drive about 10 miles to Sumner or Puyallup Station for weekday trains toward Seattle and Tacoma. Here’s more on living near Sumner Station.
- Park-and-ride: station parking can fill early, so plan your morning.
- Bus service in Orting is limited. Check Pierce Transit for current routes.
Choosing a home with your commute in mind
- Drive it at rush hour, both directions, on a weekday.
- Consider hybrid schedules. Two or three commute days a week makes Orting work for many people.
- Know the evacuation routes. Orting is in Mount Rainier’s lahar hazard zone, and the city publishes evacuation routes. Here’s how to check lahar and flood information.
- Compare nearby towns. See Sumner vs. Orting or the Bonney Lake commute guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the commute from Orting to Seattle?
Downtown Seattle is roughly 40–45 miles from Orting, usually via SR 162 and SR 167. Drive times vary widely with traffic, so test the route at rush hour.
Is there a train from Orting?
Not in Orting itself. The nearest Sounder stations are in Sumner and Puyallup, about 10 miles away, with weekday trains toward Seattle and Tacoma.
What is the best route from Orting to JBLM?
Many commuters take SR 162 to SR 512 and then I-5 to their gate. Others head west toward South Hill. The trip is roughly 25–30 miles depending on the gate.
Is SR 162 the only way out of Orting?
It’s the main route north toward Sumner and Puyallup. Other roads lead west and south, and the city publishes evacuation routes for lahar planning.
Will the SR 167 Completion Project help Orting commuters?
It may help some Tacoma and Port-bound trips once segments open, since it connects Puyallup with I-5 and the Port of Tacoma. Check WSDOT for current timelines.
Plan the drive with the house
Orting works well for many commuters, especially with flexible schedules. Knowing your route before you buy keeps the views worth the drive.
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.
Researched October 27, 2026. Distances are approximate. Confirm routes, construction, and transit with WSDOT, Sound Transit, and Pierce Transit.
