Steilacoom, WA Properties | Real Property Associates, Inc.

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Steilacoom is a waterfront town in Pierce County, Washington, on the shores of Puget Sound just south of Tacoma. It holds a distinctive place in the state's history: incorporated in 1854, it was the first town incorporated in Washington Territory and served as the county's first seat of government, and it claimed a string of territorial firsts that included the first jail, first sawmill, and first public library. When the railroad bypassed Steilacoom in 1873, its early prominence faded as Tacoma and Seattle grew, leaving behind a well-preserved collection of 19th-century homes and a quiet, walkable downtown. Today Steilacoom is known for its historic character and its location. The town faces Puget Sound, with beaches, waterfront parks, and a county ferry dock providing passenger access to Ketron and Anderson Islands. Its position just north of Joint Base Lewis-McChord makes it one of the closest waterfront communities to the installation, attracting military families who value a short commute and a peaceful setting. The compact downtown holds locally owned shops and eateries along streets lined with older homes, and the town's limited road access—there is no freeway exit into the center—keeps it feeling tucked away. For people considering a move, Steilacoom offers a small-town, coastal atmosphere within the South Sound region. Housing centers on single-family homes, many with historic character or water views, and the community's schools are part of a long-established district with a strong local reputation. It suits those who want a slower pace, a strong sense of history, and convenient access to JBLM and the Tacoma–Lakewood area.

Population 6,800

County Pierce County

Active Listings 43

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Steilacoom known for?

Steilacoom is known as Washington's first incorporated town, having been incorporated in 1854 while serving as Pierce County's first seat of government. It is sometimes called Washington's 'Town of Firsts' for territorial milestones that included the first jail, first sawmill, and first public library.

Where is Steilacoom located?

Steilacoom is in Pierce County, Washington, on the shore of Puget Sound south of Tacoma. It sits just north of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, making it a convenient waterfront community for military families and South Sound commuters.

What school district serves Steilacoom?

Steilacoom Historical School District No. 1, the oldest organized school district in Pierce County, serves the town along with DuPont, Anderson Island, and portions of Lakewood and unincorporated Pierce County, and it includes Saltar's Point Elementary and Steilacoom High School.

Does Steilacoom have ferry service?

Yes. A county ferry dock in Steilacoom provides public passenger access to Ketron and Anderson Islands in Puget Sound. Commuter rail is also available at Sounder stations in nearby Lakewood and South Tacoma.

How do residents commute from Steilacoom?

Residents typically reach Interstate 5 and Joint Base Lewis-McChord via the two-lane Steilacoom-DuPont Road, or travel through neighboring Lakewood and DuPont. Sounder commuter rail stations in Lakewood and South Tacoma serve the broader area.

City Guide

About Steilacoom

Real Estate & Housing

Steilacoom's housing stock is defined by its history and its waterfront. The downtown and surrounding streets hold a notable collection of 19th- and early-20th-century homes, several of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, alongside newer single-family construction on the town's hillsides. Waterfront and view properties line the Puget Sound shore. The town's limited access—reached by a two-lane road rather than a freeway exit—contributes to its secluded feel and to a market dominated by single-family homes rather than large multifamily development.

Neighborhoods

Lifestyle in Steilacoom

Steilacoom offers a quiet, small-town lifestyle on Puget Sound. The compact downtown is walkable, with locally owned shops, cafés, and restaurants near the waterfront, and beaches and parks provide daily access to the water. The county ferry to Anderson and Ketron Islands adds a distinctly maritime rhythm to daily life. Its closeness to Joint Base Lewis-McChord brings a strong military-family presence, while the town's historic homes and sense of place give it a settled, neighborly character distinct from the larger cities of the South Sound.

Schools & Education

Steilacoom is served by Steilacoom Historical School District No. 1, the oldest organized school district in Pierce County. The district serves the town along with neighboring DuPont, Anderson Island, and portions of Lakewood and unincorporated Pierce County, and it includes schools such as Saltar's Point Elementary and Steilacoom High School. The district's longevity and community focus are part of the town's identity, with campuses set against views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier.

Getting Around

Steilacoom's transportation is shaped by its tucked-away position. The two-lane Steilacoom–DuPont Road provides the most direct connection to Interstate 5 and the southern entrance of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, while routes through neighboring Lakewood and DuPont offer alternatives. Commuter rail is available via Sounder stations in Lakewood and South Tacoma. The county ferry dock in Steilacoom provides passenger access to Ketron and Anderson Islands. The town's limited road access keeps through-traffic light and preserves its secluded feel.

Parks & Recreation

Recreation in Steilacoom centers on Puget Sound. The town's beaches and waterfront parks offer shoreline access, views of the Olympic Mountains and islands, and beachcombing, while the county ferry opens day trips to Anderson and Ketron Islands. The historic downtown and its preserved 19th-century buildings invite walking tours, and the town's small parks provide community green space. Its location near Joint Base Lewis-McChord and the South Sound also places regional trails and recreation areas within easy reach.

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