Living in Lakewood, Seattle: Neighborhood Guide and Real Estate Insights

If you’re relocating to Seattle for work and exploring housing options in nearby areas, Lakewood, WA might catch your attention. Nestled between Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia, Lakewood offers a balance of suburban living with easy access to urban centers. Whether you’re looking to buy a house, condo, or apartment, this guide will walk you through what it’s like living in Lakewood, Seattle, and how it compares to other nearby areas.

Housing Options in Lakewood, WA

Lakewood, Seattle is known for its more affordable housing options compared to Seattle and Tacoma. If you’re moving here for work, there are several housing choices:

• Single-family homes: The median price for homes in Lakewood is around $500,000. Prices can go higher for newer developments or properties close to the lake.
• Condos: Condos in Lakewood tend to be more affordable, with average prices ranging from $300,000 to $400,000, depending on location and amenities.
• Apartments: Renting an apartment is also an option, with typical rental prices around $1,500 to $2,500 per month for two-bedroom units.

Compared to Seattle, Lakewood offers significantly more affordable home options, making it an attractive option for employees looking to save on housing costs while still having access to the city.

Comparing Living in Lakewood to Tacoma, Seattle, and Olympia

Lakewood’s location between Tacoma, Seattle, and Olympia gives residents the flexibility to commute to different work hubs, but it does have its distinct characteristics:

• Tacoma: Tacoma is closer to Lakewood and offers a larger urban environment with more entertainment and dining options. However, it tends to have higher crime rates than Lakewood.
• Seattle: Lakewood is about 45 minutes to an hour from Seattle, offering a quieter suburban experience compared to Seattle’s bustling city life. Seattle has more job opportunities and higher home prices.
• Olympia: Olympia offers a more laid-back atmosphere and is home to the state government. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Lakewood and offers similar housing affordability, though with fewer job opportunities compared to Seattle or Tacoma.

Advantages of Living in Lakewood, Seattle

1. Affordability: Lakewood offers lower housing prices compared to Seattle and Tacoma, making it a great option for those looking for more space at a reasonable cost.
2. Proximity to Urban Centers: With quick access to I-5, you can easily commute to Seattle, Tacoma, or Olympia.
3. Outdoor Activities: Lakewood is close to Fort Steilacoom Park and American Lake, providing plenty of recreational opportunities for families.
4. Public Transportation: Lakewood is served by Sound Transit, offering a commuter rail that can get you to Seattle. However, the service may not be as frequent as needed for daily commuters without a car.
5. Schools: The Clover Park School District serves the area, with mixed reviews. For families seeking top-rated schools, Tacoma or Olympia might offer better options.

Disadvantages of Living in Lakewood

1. Distance from Seattle: The commute to Seattle can take up to an hour during rush hour, which might be a drawback for those working downtown.
2. Limited Public Transportation: While there are transportation options, the reliance on cars is still significant in Lakewood.
3. Crime Levels: Crime can be higher than in Seattle’s suburbs, though safer than Tacoma. Some areas of Lakewood are more prone to petty crime, so it’s essential to research neighborhoods.

Things to Do in Lakewood

Lakewood’s proximity to parks, lakes, and outdoor spaces offers plenty of opportunities for recreation. Fort Steilacoom Park is a popular spot for hiking, picnics, and sports. For shopping and dining, the Lakewood Towne Center provides a variety of stores, restaurants, and services. Residents are also just a short drive from Tacoma’s Museum District and the scenic Chambers Bay Golf Course.

Parking and Suburban Conveniences

One of the key benefits of living in Lakewood is the availability of parking, something that’s often a challenge in Seattle. Residents can enjoy suburban conveniences such as large grocery stores, ample parking spaces, and shopping centers that are difficult to find in more urban settings like Capitol Hill or the Central District.

Alternative Neighborhoods to Consider

If Lakewood doesn’t seem like the right fit, there are several nearby options to consider:

• Tacoma: For those wanting more of an urban environment while keeping home prices lower than Seattle, Tacoma offers a vibrant city life with a mix of historic and new homes.
• Olympia: A bit farther from Seattle, Olympia provides more affordable housing and a small-town vibe while still offering amenities and job opportunities.
• South Seattle: For those who want to live closer to Seattle but need a more affordable option, South Seattle neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and Rainier Valley may be worth considering. Prices here are higher than Lakewood but still lower than in central Seattle.

Conclusion

Lakewood, Seattle, presents a unique opportunity for employees relocating to Seattle who want to balance affordability, space, and proximity to urban centers. With a range of housing options, easy access to outdoor activities, and the conveniences of suburban living, it’s a great place for families or individuals who don’t mind commuting to work in Seattle or Tacoma. However, if being closer to Seattle is a priority, you may also want to explore other nearby neighborhoods that offer similar pricing with easier access to the city.

As a real estate agent, I can help you navigate the various neighborhoods, compare options, and find the best home that suits your lifestyle and budget.