Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lacey, WA
Thinking of moving to Lacey, WA? With a population around 59,000, Lacey is a friendly community offering affordable homes with a median price of $440,000 and average rents of $1,670. Residents enjoy moderate living costs, great local schools, and quick commutes averaging under 28 minutes. The city balances safety with a low violent crime rate, boasts easy access to major healthcare, and a mild, rainy climate ideal for outdoor lovers. Dive in below for details on housing, education, and more to see if Lacey is your next home!
Demographics - Lacey, WA
Lacey is home to about 59,340 residents with a median age of 36.3, offering a diverse community where over 13% speak a language other than English at home. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a majority white population, complemented by notable Asian, Black, and other ethnic groups. With a moderate population density, Lacey provides a welcoming environment for families and newcomers alike.
Population:
59,340
Density:
2,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.3
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
71.5%
Black:
5.7%
Asian:
7.6%
Others:
15.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lacey, WA?
Living in Lacey comes with a cost of living index of 115.7, slightly above the national average, largely due to housing costs where the median home value is $440,000 and average rent is $1,670. Utilities and transportation remain reasonably priced, and Washington's state tax rates range from 0% to 9%. Residents benefit from affordable groceries and healthcare compared to similar West Coast cities.
Median House Value:
$440,000
Gross Rent:
$1,670
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,280
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,010
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$650
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
115.7
Grocery:
108.4
Housing:
121.9
Utilities:
92.6
Transportation:
110.3
Health Care:
105.2
Miscellaneous:
106.0
Crime
Is Lacey, WA a safe place to live?
Lacey enjoys a relatively low violent crime rate, with only 210 incidents per 100,000 people, making it a safe choice for families and individuals. Property crime is more common, with a 1 in 48 chance, but overall crime rates remain manageable. The community's proactive safety measures and friendly neighborhoods contribute to its reputation for security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
210
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,080
Crime Index:
2,290
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 476
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Lacey, WA year-round?
Lacey experiences a mild, Pacific Northwest climate with warm summers averaging highs of 78°F and cool winters rarely dipping below 32°F. The city receives about 48 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 43% of the year. This weather is ideal for those who appreciate green landscapes and outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
45°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
43%
Neighbors
Lacey residents benefit from a strong sense of community, with a median household income of $77,700 and a poverty rate of just 8.8%. Education levels are high, with over 93% of adults holding at least a high school diploma, and commute times average under 28 minutes. The area is family-friendly and diverse, supporting a comfortable and connected lifestyle.
Median Income:
$40,500
Household Income:
$77,700
Family Income:
$89,900
Per Capita Income:
$35,800
Income Male:
$52,000
Income Female:
$44,000
Poverty Rate:
8.8%
Non English Speakers:
13.5%
Rent:
$1,670
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
2.7%
Commute Time:
27.9 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.8%
Bachelors or More:
31.2%
Education
How are the schools in Lacey, WA?
Lacey offers quality public and private schooling options, including North Thurston High School and Community Christian Academy, along with access to higher education at South Puget Sound Community College and The Evergreen State College just miles away. Student-teacher ratios are favorable, promoting individualized attention. The city’s schools are known for their supportive environment and strong academic programs.
Public Schools
Name:
North Thurston High School
Street:
600 Sleater Kinney Rd NE
Phone:
360-412-4800
Students:
1,300
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.1
Name:
Komachin Middle School
Street:
3650 College St SE
Phone:
360-412-4740
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.3
Private Schools
Name:
Community Christian Academy
Street:
4710 Park Center Ave NE
Phone:
360-493-2223
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
South Puget Sound Community College
City:
Olympia
State:
WA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
5,500
Name:
The Evergreen State College
City:
Olympia
State:
WA
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
2,700
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is excellent in Lacey, with major hospitals like Providence St. Peter and Capital Medical Center nearby and 94.8% of residents covered by health insurance. The city offers 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring timely medical care. Healthcare quality is strong, making it a reassuring place for families and retirees.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Providence St. Peter Hospital
Address:
413 Lilly Rd NE, Olympia, WA 98506
Phone:
(360) 491-9480
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Capital Medical Center
Address:
3900 Capital Mall Dr SW, Olympia, WA 98502
Phone:
(360) 754-5858
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.8%
Health Care Index:
76.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lacey, WA?
Lacey’s housing market is moderately priced for the region, with a median home price of $440,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $1,670. Most residents own their homes, and the market has seen steady appreciation, reflecting a stable investment. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates suggest a healthy demand for both buying and renting.
Median Home Price:
$440,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,670
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents of Lacey are served by the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located in nearby Olympia. The DMV provides essential services like driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, and title transfers. For more information or to schedule appointments, locals can visit the official website or call the Olympia office.
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.