Living in Spanaway Washington - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
What is Living in Spanaway Washington Like?
Spanaway, Washington, located in Pierce County, is home to approximately 32,000 people. The city offers its residents a mix of suburban and rural living, making it an attractive location for those who enjoy a quieter lifestyle. South of Seattle, Spanaway offers good access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. The city is near State Route 7, which runs through the heart of Pierce County, providing easy access to other towns and attractions. Spanaway embodies the Pacific Northwest lifestyle with its lush greenery, mountain views, and proximity to Puget Sound. Spanaway residents and visitors enjoy recreational activities such as kayaking, hiking, and exploring the nearby Northwest Trek Wildlife Park. The Best of Spanaway includes a mix of small businesses, modern shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods with stunning views of Mount Rainier.
One of the main attractions in Spanaway is the Spanaway Lake Park, a 135-acre park with a lake for fishing and boating, hiking trails, picnic areas, and sports fields. It is a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Another attraction in the area is the Sprinker Recreation Center, which offers ice skating, swimming, and other recreational activities. Spanaway also has several other parks, including the Bresemann Forest Park and the Spanaway Park, which offer playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths, providing plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, the Spanaway area is home to several local restaurants and shops, making it a great place to explore and spend time with family and friends.
There are several large employers in and around Spanaway, Washington, including Joint Base Lewis-McChord, a major military installation in the area, and Amazon, which has a large fulfillment center nearby. Additionally, several healthcare facilities and school districts provide employment opportunities in the region.
The cost of living in Spanaway, Washington, is slightly higher than the national average but still relatively affordable compared to other cities in the region. Housing costs are the main factor contributing to this higher cost of living, as the demand for housing in the area has increased in recent years due to its proximity to Tacoma and the natural beauty of the area. The average home value in Spanaway is around $450,000. There are a variety of housing options available to those living in Spanaway, Washington, to suit the needs of a variety of budgets and lifestyles, including single-family homes, apartments, condos, and townhouses.
If you're searching for a peaceful town with a rural feel yet still close to bigger cities, Spanaway, Washington, might be the ideal place for you! Read on to discover more about what it's like living in Spanaway, Washington, including information about its neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and some pros and cons of living in this charming city. Hopefully, the information in this blog can help you determine if living in Spanaway, Washington, is right for you!
The Moving to Spanaway Washington Team
Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in Spanaway, Washington. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Spanaway, Washington, CLICK HERE. To start receiving emails with homes that match your criteria anywhere in Washington, CLICK HERE and sign up for Listing Alert. With a little info on what, where, and how much, you'll get newly listed homes matching your criteria sent to your inbox as they hit the market. This can give you a big leg up in your home search.
The first step in the home-buying process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Todd Davidson is an experienced mortgage broker and can help you get the best financing option for your home purchase. Not quite ready yet? Todd can help you put together a plan to get you there. Whether you're thinking a few months or a year or more if you want to buy a home, reach out to Todd and he can help. CLICK HERE to email Todd and set up a call to get the process started or just call him at 971-275-2465.
Todd Davidson
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What is the Cost of Living in Spanaway Washington?
If you're exploring a move to Spanaway Washington, or any place, the cost of living would be a significant factor in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in Spanaway, Washington, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Spanaway, Washington, and rent, you would need to make $48,000 a year. To live in Spanaway, Washington, and buy a home, you would need to make $68,000 a year. Rental amount is based on current low end cost of studio or one bedroom, purchase is based on recent low end sales of a three bedroom and monthly payment with 20% down.
Living in Spanaway Washington Tips/Info/Blog Posts
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Top Neighborhoods in Spanaway Washington
Living in Spanaway, Washington, you'll discover a vibrant community with diverse neighborhoods, each offering its unique charm and attractions. From scenic parks and lakes to shopping hubs and cultural hotspots, Spanaway has something for everyone. The city's range of housing options caters to individuals with varying budgets and lifestyles. Below, you'll find information on several fantastic neighborhoods in Spanaway, including details about their attractions, housing types, and noteworthy points of interest:
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Bethel: Located in the eastern part of Spanaway, Bethel is a quiet neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. The area is home to several parks, including the popular Spanaway Lake Park, which offers swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. Other attractions in the area include the Classic Golf Club and the Spanaway Speedway.
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Elk Plain: Situated in the northern part of Spanaway, Elk Plain is a rural neighborhood with a mix of large, single-family homes and smaller, more affordable properties. The area is home to several parks, including the Elk Plain Community Park and the Spanaway Park, which offers a playground, picnic areas, and a boat launch.
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Lake Park: Situated in the western part of Spanaway, Lake Park is a residential neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. The area is home to several parks, including Lake Spanaway Park, which offers swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. Other attractions in the area include the Lake Spanaway Golf Course and the Spanaway Lake High School.
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Spanaway Lake: Located in the southern part of Spanaway, Spanaway Lake is a serene area known for its proximity to the beautiful Spanaway Lake. The neighborhood primarily consists of single-family homes, offering a sense of community and a peaceful atmosphere. Spanaway Lake, a central feature of the neighborhood, provides an array of recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The lake offers a tranquil setting for swimming, fishing, and boating, attracting outdoor enthusiasts year-round. The surrounding Spanaway Lake Park is a favorite destination, with its lush green spaces, picnic areas, playgrounds, and trails.
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Meadow Park: The Meadow Park neighborhood in Spanaway, Washington, offers a tranquil and family-friendly atmosphere. Nestled in the southern part of Spanaway, the area is known for its proximity to the stunning Spanaway Lake. Residents of Meadow Park enjoy the benefits of living near this picturesque lake, with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The surrounding Spanaway Lake Park provides lush green spaces, picnic areas, playgrounds, and scenic trails, perfect for outdoor recreation and family outings. With its primarily single-family homes, Meadow Park offers residents a sense of community and a peaceful residential environment.
20 Pros and Cons of Living in Spanaway Washington
Living in Spanaway Washington Pros
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Affordability: Spanaway offers more affordable housing options compared to neighboring cities, making it an attractive choice for individuals and families on a budget.
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Natural beauty: Spanaway is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the nearby Spanaway Lake and the scenic Mount Rainier, providing residents with opportunities for outdoor activities and breathtaking views.
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Community atmosphere: Spanaway has a strong sense of community, with friendly residents and a welcoming atmosphere that fosters connections and neighborhood pride.
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Access to outdoor recreation: Spanaway offers a range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and camping, allowing residents to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature.
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Proximity to major cities: Spanaway's location provides convenient access to larger cities like Tacoma and Seattle, allowing residents to take advantage of urban amenities, employment opportunities, and cultural attractions.
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Diverse dining options: Spanaway boasts a variety of dining options, including local eateries, cafes, and international cuisines, providing residents with a range of culinary experiences.
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Family-friendly environment: Spanaway is known for being a family-friendly community, with good schools, parks, and community events that cater to families and children.
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Lower traffic congestion: Compared to larger cities, Spanaway generally has less traffic congestion, making commuting within the area more convenient and less stressful.
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Scenic drives: Spanaway's location allows for scenic drives through beautiful landscapes, including routes with views of Mount Rainier and other natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest.
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Close-knit neighborhoods: Spanaway has close-knit neighborhoods where residents often develop strong relationships and a sense of belonging, creating a supportive and tight community.
Living in Spanaway Washington Cons
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Commute times: Spanaway is located approximately 40 minutes south of downtown Tacoma, which can result in longer commute times for those working or attending school in the city or neighboring areas.
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Limited job opportunities: Spanaway has fewer employment options compared to larger cities, which may require residents to commute to nearby areas for work.
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Lack of walkability: Spanaway is primarily a car-dependent community, and the limited walkability can be a disadvantage for those who prefer pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.
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Limited shopping options: While shopping centers and stores exist in Spanaway, individuals seeking more retail options must travel to neighboring cities.
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Limited healthcare facilities: Spanaway has fewer healthcare facilities than larger cities, and residents may need to travel to nearby areas for specialized medical care.
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Higher crime rates: Some areas within Spanaway have experienced higher crime rates compared to other communities, and residents may consider this a drawback.
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Limited educational options: Spanaway has a limited number of schools, and individuals seeking specific academic programs or institutions may need to consider neighboring areas for more options.
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Extreme weather conditions: Spanaway experiences a Pacific Northwest climate, which includes frequent rainfall and occasionally harsh winter weather conditions that some individuals may find challenging.
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Potential traffic congestion: The proximity to major transportation routes like Interstate 5 can result in traffic congestion during peak commuting hours.
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Limited nightlife and entertainment: Spanaway may have limited options for nightlife and entertainment activities, with residents often seeking entertainment options in nearby cities.
FAQs About Living in Spanaway Washington
What is Spanaway Washington known for?
Spanaway, Washington, is most known for its beautiful parks and outdoor recreational activities. The community is home to several parks, including Spanaway Lake Park, which features a large lake for fishing and boating, as well as hiking trails and picnic areas. Spanaway is also known for its golf courses, including the Classic Golf Club, which offers a challenging course and stunning views of Mount Rainier. The community hosts several events throughout the year, including the Spanaway Moonshiners Car Show and the Spanaway Fantasy Lights, a holiday light display that attracts visitors from all over the region. The natural beauty of Spanaway and its many outdoor activities make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
What cities and attractions is Spanaway Washington close to?
Spanaway, Washington, is located in Pierce County, part of the Puget Sound region in the northwestern part of the state. The city is approximately 40 miles south of Seattle and 10 miles east of Tacoma. Spanaway is close to several other cities in the area, including Lakewood, about 8 miles to the north, and Puyallup, about 12 miles to the east. The city is also within easy driving distance of other popular destinations in the region, such as Mount Rainier National Park, the Olympic Peninsula, and the city of Olympia. Spanaway's central location in Pierce County makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and nearby cities.
What is the weather like in Spanaway?
Living in Spanaway, Washington, you can expect mild weather throughout the year. In the winter months, the average high temperatures range from 45°F to 50°F, and the average low temperatures range from 32°F to 35°F. The city occasionally experiences light snowfall during the winter, with an average of 7 inches of snowfall annually. Summers in Spanaway are mild, with average high temperatures ranging from 70°F to 75°F and occasional hot spells in the 80s and 90s. The city receives around 33 inches of rain yearly, with most precipitation occurring in the fall and winter months.
Does Spanaway have good public schools?
Students in Spanaway, Washington, attend public school in the Bethel School District, which serves the city of Spanaway and some surrounding areas. For school year 2022-23, Niche.com ranks the Bethel School District #164 out of 252 school districts in Washington it ranked, giving it an overall C+ rating. The district is committed to providing a well-rounded education, including arts and athletics, and offers a variety of programs for students with different interests and needs. The district has a diverse student body and strong partnerships with local organizations and businesses. Though there are better school districts in Washington, children living in Spanaway, Washington, have access to a good education.
Is Spanaway Washington safe?
Living in Spanaway, Washington, you'll find it a remarkably safe. Property crime rates in Spanaway are 20% lower than the national average, and violent crime rates are a staggering 40% lower than the national average. According to NeighborhoodScout.com, Spanaway boasts a crime rate lower than 63% of all US cities. With such impressive statistics, you should feel very safe living in Spanaway, Washington.
What is there to do living in Spanaway Washington?
Living in Spanaway, Washington, you will always have things to do. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Spanaway Lake and the Mount Rainier, offering ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing. Spanaway boasts several parks, including Spanaway Park and Sprinker Recreation Center, which feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails. The city hosts several annual events, including the Pierce County Fair, which attracts visitors from around the region, and the Spanaway Community Fair, offering carnival rides, live music, and local exhibits. If you're looking for a day trip, Spanaway is located near attractions like the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium and the Tacoma Dome. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there is always something to do in Spanaway, Washington.
Who are the large employers in Spanaway?
If living in Spanaway, Washington, some of the top employers include Joint Base Lewis-McChord, which employs over 56,000 workers, the Bethel School District, which employs over 1,500 people, and the Pierce County government, which employs over 1,000 people. Other notable employers in Spanaway include Amazon, Safeway, and various retail and service companies. With a diverse range of employers, residents of Spanaway can find opportunities in military, education, government, and more.
I want to relocate to Spanaway. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Spanaway, Washington. There’s a lot of information on this website to help including some helpful links below. If you want to ask questions, try our Facebook Group > Moving to Washington where we have broad group of locals to answer any question you might have. If you’re looking to buy a home in the Spanaway area, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your first step. For Mortgage Info, reach out to me. I would love to tell you more about what living in Spanaway, Washington, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.