Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Puyallup, WA
Considering a move to Puyallup, WA? With a population of about 43,670, Puyallup offers a blend of suburban charm and city amenities, with median home prices around $510,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,650. Residents enjoy mild summers, easy access to healthcare, and great local schools. While property crime rates are higher than average, Puyallup attracts families and commuters with a 33-minute average commute, highly rated public schools, and close proximity to the Puget Sound region’s outdoor recreation.
Demographics - Puyallup, WA
Demographics - Puyallup, WA
Puyallup has a population of approximately 43,670, featuring a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 37.5 years. The community is predominantly White, with notable Asian, Black, and other minority groups, and about 11.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The city’s moderate density supports a suburban feel while offering cultural diversity.
Population:
43,670
Density:
3,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.5
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
74.2%
Black:
3.4%
Asian:
5.8%
Others:
16.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Puyallup, WA?
The cost of living in Puyallup is above the national average, with a cost of living index of 120.6. Median home values are around $510,000 and average rent is $1,650, reflecting the area’s desirable location and access to amenities. Residents benefit from competitive utility costs and no state income tax, though housing and transportation expenses are comparatively high.
Median House Value:
$510,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,300
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$710
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
120.6
Grocery:
111.5
Housing:
133.0
Utilities:
98.7
Transportation:
116.2
Health Care:
110.3
Miscellaneous:
108.2
Crime
Is Puyallup, WA a safe place to live?
Puyallup experiences a higher property crime rate, with about 3,762 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 27 chance annually, while violent crime remains relatively low with a 1 in 366 chance. The overall crime index suggests residents should be mindful of property safety, though the community remains attractive to families and professionals. Local law enforcement and community programs work actively to maintain safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
273
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,762
Crime Index:
4,035
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 366
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 27
Weather
What is the weather like in Puyallup, WA year-round?
Residents of Puyallup enjoy a mild Pacific Northwest climate, with winter lows around 35°F and summer highs reaching 78°F. The area receives about 41.7 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine roughly 44% of the year. Seasonal changes are moderate, making outdoor activities accessible year-round.
Winter
Min:
35°F
Max:
47°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
44%
Neighbors
Puyallup’s households earn a median income of $79,900, and the city maintains a relatively low poverty rate of 8.7%. Most adults have completed high school, with nearly 29% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and the average commute time is about 33 minutes. The local workforce benefits from stable employment opportunities and a diverse population.
Median Income:
$44,500
Household Income:
$79,900
Family Income:
$89,700
Per Capita Income:
$37,800
Income Male:
$51,700
Income Female:
$40,800
Poverty Rate:
8.7%
Non English Speakers:
11.5%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
33.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.8%
Bachelors or More:
28.6%
Education
How are the schools in Puyallup, WA?
Puyallup offers highly rated public schools such as Puyallup High School and Edgerton Elementary, complemented by private options like All Saints Catholic School. The city is also home to Pierce College Puyallup and is within a short drive to Pacific Lutheran University, supporting lifelong learning. Education attainment is strong, with nearly 94% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Puyallup High School
Street:
105 7th St SW
Phone:
253-841-8711
Students:
1,710
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.0
Name:
Edgerton Elementary School
Street:
7407 166th Ave E
Phone:
253-841-8727
Students:
570
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Private Schools
Name:
All Saints Catholic School
Street:
504 2nd St SW
Phone:
253-845-5025
Students:
260
Colleges
Name:
Pierce College Puyallup
City:
Puyallup
State:
WA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
6,200
Name:
Pacific Lutheran University
City:
Tacoma
State:
WA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
2,900
Healthcare
Healthcare in Puyallup is accessible, anchored by MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital and supported by 2.7 physicians per 1,000 residents. About 94% of locals have health insurance, ensuring widespread coverage and care. The city’s healthcare index indicates good service quality and availability for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital
Address:
401 15th Ave SE, Puyallup, WA 98372
Phone:
(253) 697-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.1%
Health Care Index:
76.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Puyallup, WA?
The Puyallup housing market is robust, with a median home price of $510,000 and owner-occupancy at nearly 60%. Rental options remain available, with an average two-bedroom rent of $1,650 and a 6.1% vacancy rate. Home values have seen modest appreciation, reflecting steady demand and a healthy real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$510,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.9%
New Construction Rate:
2.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle and licensing services in Puyallup are managed by the Washington State Department of Licensing, with the nearest branch located in Olympia. Residents can access driver, vehicle, and registration services both in person and online for convenience. The DMV provides comprehensive information and resources for newcomers and long-term residents alike.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
405 Black Lake Blvd SW, Olympia, WA 98502
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.