Moving to
Steilacoom
Discover Washington State's oldest incorporated town — a historic waterfront gem on Puget Sound with authentic small-town charm, Anderson Island ferry access, and preserved 19th-century character.
Why Steilacoom Is Special
Steilacoom isn't just another Puget Sound community — it's Washington State's oldest incorporated town, officially founded in 1854. Walking down historic Main Street feels like stepping back in time, with beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings housing local shops, restaurants, and museums that tell the story of Washington's earliest days.
With a population around 6,000 residents, Steilacoom offers genuine small-town living while maintaining reasonable access to Tacoma (20 minutes) and Seattle (45 minutes). The town's waterfront location on Puget Sound provides stunning views, beach access, and the Pierce County Ferry terminal serving Anderson Island — a beloved community feature that adds to the maritime character.
Unlike many communities that have lost their character to rapid development, Steilacoom has carefully preserved its historic identity while providing excellent schools through the intimate Steilacoom Historical School District, strong community engagement, and a slower pace of life that attracts families, retirees, and history enthusiasts seeking authenticity over suburban sprawl.
Experience Historic Steilacoom
Best Neighborhoods in Steilacoom
From historic waterfront downtown to hillside estates with Puget Sound views, Steilacoom's neighborhoods offer authentic small-town character with excellent schools and strong community bonds.
Old Town Historic District
The heart of Steilacoom's heritage, Old Town offers walkable waterfront living among beautifully preserved 19th-century homes, local shops, restaurants, and the ferry terminal. This is quintessential small-town Washington with genuine historic character, community events, and beach access. Perfect for history lovers, downsizers, and anyone seeking authentic charm.
Saltar's Point
Elevated above the waterfront, Saltar's Point offers larger homes on spacious lots with stunning Puget Sound views. This peaceful residential neighborhood provides more square footage and privacy while maintaining access to Steilacoom's excellent schools and community amenities. Ideal for families seeking space, quiet streets, and panoramic water vistas.
Cost of Living in Steilacoom
Steilacoom offers more affordable waterfront living than many Puget Sound communities, with a median home price around $675,000 and no state income tax.
Housing
Daily Expenses
Income & Taxes
Schools in Steilacoom
Steilacoom Historical School District is Pierce County's smallest and most intimate district, serving approximately 1,000 students with strong community involvement and personalized attention.
Elementary Schools
- Cherrydale Primary School (K-2)
- Saltar's Point Elementary (3-5)
- Chloe Clark Elementary (K-5)
Secondary Schools
- Pioneer Middle School (6-8)
- Steilacoom High School (9-12)
Why Families Love Steilacoom Schools
- Small class sizes and personalized attention in Pierce County's smallest district
- Strong parent involvement and tight-knit community atmosphere
- Focus on academic excellence and character development
- Teachers and staff know every student by name
Commute Times from Steilacoom
Steilacoom offers small-town tranquility with reasonable access to major Puget Sound employment centers and the Anderson Island ferry for unique commute options.
Downtown Tacoma
Downtown Seattle
JBLM Base
SeaTac Airport
Anderson Island Ferry
Pierce County Ferry operates regular service from Steilacoom to Anderson Island, providing both vehicle and passenger transport. The 20-minute scenic crossing connects mainland residents to the rural island lifestyle and is a beloved part of Steilacoom's maritime character.
Steilacoom's Historic Journey
As Washington's oldest incorporated town, Steilacoom's 170+ year history tells the story of the Pacific Northwest's earliest settlement and development.
Town Incorporation
Steilacoom becomes Washington Territory's first incorporated town, establishing its place in Pacific Northwest history.
Maritime Hub
Steilacoom serves as a major port and commercial center for Puget Sound, connecting settlers to resources and trade routes.
Preservation Movement
Community efforts successfully preserve historic buildings and character, resisting over-development and maintaining authenticity.
Living History
Steilacoom continues to honor its heritage while providing modern amenities, excellent schools, and genuine small-town community.
Living in Steilacoom: The Complete Picture
Every community has trade-offs. Here's an honest look at what makes Steilacoom special — and what to consider before moving.
The Pros
- Washington's oldest incorporated town with authentic historic character and preserved 19th-century buildings
- Genuine small-town community atmosphere with population around 6,000 and strong neighbor connections
- Beautiful Puget Sound waterfront location with beach access and Anderson Island ferry service
- Excellent Steilacoom Historical School District with small class sizes and personalized attention
- More affordable than many Puget Sound communities (median home $675K vs. $850K+ elsewhere)
- Reasonable commute to Tacoma (20 min), JBLM (15 min), and Seattle (45 min)
- Walkable historic downtown with local shops, restaurants, and community events
- No Washington state income tax provides significant savings for residents
- Strong sense of history and preservation that resists suburban sprawl
The Cons
- Very limited shopping and dining options compared to larger cities — you'll drive to Tacoma or Lakewood for variety
- Small-town pace may feel too slow or quiet for those seeking vibrant nightlife or entertainment
- Housing inventory is limited in this small community, making home searches more challenging
- Cost of living still 25-30% above national average, primarily driven by housing prices
- Seattle commute (45+ minutes) may be too long for daily office workers without remote flexibility
- Limited public transit options — you'll need a car for most activities and commuting
- Small school district means fewer program options and extracurriculars than larger districts
- Historic preservation restrictions may limit renovation flexibility for some properties
- Everyone knows everyone — limited privacy compared to anonymous suburban living
Ready to Move to Steilacoom?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about moving to and living in Steilacoom, Washington.
Is Steilacoom, WA a good place to live?
Yes, Steilacoom is an excellent place to live for those seeking historic waterfront charm and authentic small-town character. As Washington's oldest incorporated town (1854), it offers preserved historic buildings, Puget Sound waterfront access, Anderson Island ferry, excellent Steilacoom Historical School District, and genuine community atmosphere with a population around 6,000. The trade-off is limited shopping/dining compared to larger cities.
What is the cost of living in Steilacoom, WA?
Steilacoom's cost of living is approximately 25-30% higher than the national average, primarily driven by housing costs. The median home price is around $675,000, while rental homes average $2,200-$2,800 per month. Washington has no state income tax, which provides meaningful savings. The small-town setting offers more affordable living than nearby Tacoma or Seattle.
What are the best neighborhoods in Steilacoom?
The best Steilacoom neighborhoods are Old Town Historic District offering walkable waterfront living with preserved 19th-century character and access to shops, restaurants, and ferry terminal; and Saltar's Point providing hilltop homes with stunning Puget Sound views, larger properties, and quiet residential streets. Both offer excellent schools and genuine small-town community.
Can you take a ferry from Steilacoom?
Yes, Pierce County Ferry operates regular service from Steilacoom to Anderson Island. The ferry provides both vehicle and passenger service, offering scenic 20-minute crossings across Puget Sound. The ferry terminal is located in historic downtown Steilacoom, and the service is a beloved community feature connecting mainland residents to the rural island lifestyle.
Are Steilacoom schools good?
Yes, Steilacoom is served by Steilacoom Historical School District, Pierce County's smallest and most intimate district with approximately 1,000 students. The district includes Cherrydale Primary School, Saltar's Point Elementary, Chloe Clark Elementary, Pioneer Middle School, and Steilacoom High School. Small class sizes, strong community involvement, and personalized attention make it highly regarded by families.