About the Base
Joint Base Lewis–McChord (JBLM) sits near Tacoma, Washington, and is one of the largest joint installations in the U.S. It supports over 40,000 active-duty service members across both the Army and Air Force. BAH typically ranges from $2,100–$3,100 depending on rank and dependents. The base offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and easy access to the outdoors.
Nearby Communities
- Lacey: Family-friendly suburb with new developments and top-rated schools.
- Dupont: Quiet and safe community right outside the gate.
- Puyallup: Larger city with shopping, dining, and a strong community feel.
- Tacoma: Vibrant urban area with a revitalized downtown and waterfront attractions.
Schools & Education
Clover Park School District serves most JBLM families. Other nearby districts include North Thurston and Puyallup, known for excellent academics. Tacoma also offers private and charter options like Bellarmine Preparatory School.
Things to Do
Local Favorites: Dine at The Table or Duke’s Seafood in Tacoma, or grab coffee at Anthem or Olympia Coffee Roasters.
Outdoor Recreation: Hike Mount Rainier National Park, kayak on American Lake, or explore Point Defiance Park’s zoo and trails.
Nearby Attractions: Seattle’s Pike Place Market, Space Needle, and sports venues are an hour away. Mount St. Helens and Olympic National Park make great weekend trips.
Annual Events: Washington State Fair in Puyallup, Tacoma Film Festival, and Freedom Fair Air Show.
Getting Around
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is about 45 minutes away. I-5 runs directly past the base, connecting to Seattle, Olympia, and Portland.
Get Connected
Ready to start your move to Joint Base Lewis–McChord? Get connected with an agent who’s an expert around JBLM and understands the military lifestyle.