Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fort Lewis, WA
Thinking of moving to Fort Lewis, WA? With a population of about 21,200 and a median home price around $410,000, this military-focused community offers affordable housing and a modest cost of living compared to Seattle. Residents enjoy short average commutes of 26 minutes, access to strong healthcare, and a family-friendly environment with quality local schools. While crime rates are slightly above national averages, Fort Lewis provides a supportive, close-knit atmosphere, mild Pacific Northwest climate, and proximity to both Tacoma and outdoor recreation.
Demographics - Fort Lewis, WA
Demographics - Fort Lewis, WA
Fort Lewis has a youthful and diverse population of around 21,200 residents, with a median age of 23.5 years and a slightly higher number of males than females. The community features a mix of ethnic backgrounds and a notable 14% of residents speaking languages other than English at home, reflecting its dynamic and multicultural atmosphere.
Population:
21,200
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
23.5
Gender Ratio:
110 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
14.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
58.0%
Black:
18.0%
Asian:
5.5%
Others:
18.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fort Lewis, WA?
Cost of living in Fort Lewis is moderately higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 114.0 and median home values near $410,000. Residents benefit from relatively affordable utilities and groceries, while state taxes are competitive, ranging up to 9%.
Median House Value:
$410,000
Gross Rent:
$1,725
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$99
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,020
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$720
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
114.0
Grocery:
108.5
Housing:
120.3
Utilities:
92.2
Transportation:
104.7
Health Care:
108.1
Miscellaneous:
103.0
Crime
Is Fort Lewis, WA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Fort Lewis are somewhat above the national average, with a property crime risk of 1 in 70 and a violent crime risk of 1 in 357. While these figures suggest residents should stay aware, the community remains generally secure, especially given its military presence.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
280
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,420
Crime Index:
1,700
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 357
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Fort Lewis, WA year-round?
Fort Lewis experiences a mild Pacific Northwest climate, with cool, wet winters averaging lows of 34°F and pleasant summers reaching highs near 77°F. The area receives about 41.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine roughly 45% of the year, making for comfortable, outdoor-friendly seasons.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
47°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
77°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
45%
Neighbors
The community has a median household income of $62,500 and a family income of $68,200, with about 11% of residents living below the poverty line. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, commute around 26 minutes, and enjoy a stable, supportive environment ideal for families and professionals alike.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$62,500
Family Income:
$68,200
Per Capita Income:
$27,600
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$30,000
Poverty Rate:
10.8%
Non English Speakers:
14.0%
Rent:
$1,725
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.5%
Commute Time:
26.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.5%
Bachelors or More:
22.3%
Education
How are the schools in Fort Lewis, WA?
Fort Lewis features a strong public school system, including Evergreen and Carter Lake Elementary Schools with favorable student-teacher ratios. Higher education options are nearby, with Pierce College Fort Steilacoom just 7 miles away and University of Washington Tacoma within a short drive, making it convenient for families and students.
Public Schools
Name:
Evergreen Elementary School
Street:
9010 Blaine Ave, Fort Lewis, WA 98433
Phone:
253-583-5200
Students:
670
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Carter Lake Elementary School
Street:
3420 Lincoln Blvd SW, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98439
Phone:
253-583-5220
Students:
540
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Private Schools
Name:
Saint John Bosco Catholic School
Street:
11220 S. 86th Ave SW, Lakewood, WA 98498
Phone:
253-582-9161
Students:
180
Colleges
Name:
Pierce College Fort Steilacoom
City:
Lakewood
State:
WA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
8,900
Name:
University of Washington Tacoma
City:
Tacoma
State:
WA
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
5,300
Healthcare
Fort Lewis offers access to quality healthcare, including Madigan Army Medical Center and St. Clare Hospital, with emergency services available. The area has a solid physician ratio of 2.3 per 1,000 residents and over 91% of the population has health insurance.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Madigan Army Medical Center
Address:
9040 Fitzsimmons Dr, Fort Lewis, WA 98431
Phone:
(253) 968-1110
Type:
Military & General
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Clare Hospital
Address:
11315 Bridgeport Way SW, Lakewood, WA 98499
Phone:
(253) 985-1711
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fort Lewis, WA?
The housing market in Fort Lewis is moderately priced, with a median home value of $410,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,725. With a home appreciation rate of 3.7% and a mix of rental and owner-occupied units, the area provides options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$410,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,725
Owner Occupied Rate:
35.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
2.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle and licensing services for Fort Lewis residents are handled by the Washington State Department of Licensing, located in Olympia. Residents can access driver, vehicle, and identification services both in person and online through the official state website.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
1125 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA 98501
Phone:
360-902-3900
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.