Why Live in South Des Moines
South Des Moines, located less than 5 miles from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, is a commuter-friendly neighborhood with a quiet residential atmosphere. The area is a mile from the shore and features a mix of condos and single-family homes, many tucked behind mature trees and shrubbery. Sidewalks connect some streets to nearby parks, while others have grassy edges. Condos often include covered parking, and most homes have attached garages. The neighborhood is part of the Highline School District, with students attending Parkside Elementary, Pacific Middle, and Mount Rainier High, which offers an International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and Career and Technical Education pathways. Highline College, within walking distance, provides various degree programs.
South Des Moines boasts several parks, including Salt Air Vista Park, Parkside Park, and the popular Saltwater State Park, which features trails, beach access, picnic spots, and camping areas. The Sonju Community Garden and Orchard is a volunteer-run operation that supports local food banks. The commercial corridor along Pacific Highway South offers essentials like groceries from Fred Meyer, home improvement supplies from Lowe’s, and pet products from Petco. Dining options include Dick’s Drive-In and various restaurants at Kent Station, less than 5 miles away. For extensive shopping, Westfield Southcenter is less than 7 miles away, featuring national retailers and numerous dining options.
The neighborhood is safer than the national average and provides access to Interstate 5, making it convenient for commutes to tech hubs in Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellevue, all within 20 miles. South Des Moines offers a balance of convenience, community features, and natural beauty.
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