The Gig Harbor neighborhood of Artondale allows its residents to achieve a relaxed lifestyle while having unlimited access to Puget Sound. Residents can live in luxurious waterfront properties or stay more secluded in a home with more acreage. “Artondale is a step more country than suburb,” says Jim Pullin, Managing broker at Skyline Properties. “It’s very popular versus other suburbs because it’s separated by the water; other areas don’t have that separation.” Lots of residents maintain an active lifestyle thanks to the number of outdoor activities provided by the water and Kopachuck State Park. Despite the community resting 3 miles from Gig Harbor and 13 miles from Tacoma, commuting to these cities is a doable task. “The people in Artondale love their community; they love where they live,” Pullin says. “They have a strong sense of community and are very friendly; the complete opposite of the Seattle Freeze.”
Many expensive properties dot the shores of Artondale.
Views from Kopachuck State Park are breathtaking at sunset.
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Kopachuck State Park for most recreation
“Artondale is part of Puget Sound and is very popular. There’s a lot of attention there because of the water,” Pullin says. “Hiking is really big out there; boating and fishing are also huge.” Kopachuck State Park provides these activities, plus some residents may kayak, swim or windsurf around the saltwater beaches. Renovations are underway for the state park, where it’ll receive a new kid’s area, welcome center and improvements to its beach area. These are expected to be completed by 2025. Harbor Family Park connect locals with nature through its forest trails. Golfers tee up at the nine-hole course at the private Gig Harbor Golf Club, where many tee boxes and Mount Rainier views are situated throughout.
The wet weather doesn't stop Artondale residents from there walk.
Trail wind through Kopachuk State Park.
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From 70s ramblers to 21st century craftsman
Artondale is a bedroom community with a signature style. “There are more single families and fewer townhomes; it’s similar to an urban sprawl,” Pullin says. “There’s a mix of ramblers or one-story homes. Another attractive thing about Artondale is that a lot of houses have a heavy amount of trees.” Homes vary from the 70s/80s modern ramblers with wood paneling to large 21st-century contemporary and craftsman-style estates. Waterfront properties start at around $850,000 for a condo and stretch to around $8.5 million for homes with private docks. Homes more inland can cost around $450,000 for a three-bedroom to $1.5 million for a four-bedroom, two-story; despite not having water views, there are still some perks. “If they’re not waterfront or water view, you would still get water access,” Pullin says. “Lots of homes not on the water get access. If you have a boat, you buy to get private or public water access.”
Artondale also has newer homes built into the central forested areas.
The newer homes in Artondale sit in lots full of massive trees.
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Bites and Shops in Gig Harbor and Tacoma
Residents wanting to get a bite to eat head to the commercial areas in Uptown Gig Harbor and Tacoma. Point Fosdick Drive has a handful of national chains but also contains local go-tos like the Greenhouse Restaurant, where steakhouse entrees are matched with a modern interior. Moctezuma’s Mexican Restaurant and Tequilla Bar serve Mexican entrées alongside an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal-based cocktails. Fondi Pizzeria takes diners to Fondi, Italy, and serves brick oven Neapolitan Pizza in a casual and homey setting. This same drive has the big box retailers of Kohl’s, Marshalls and Michaels. For groceries, folks head to Safeway.
Artondale residents are never far from lots of retail and eatery's.
Safeway it a pacific northwest staple in Artondale for groceries.
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Major renovations to Artondale Schools
Public school options are through the Peninsula School District, which rates an A rating from Niche. Artondale Elementary recently renovated its school, adding flex spaces for smaller classrooms and a larger library and common room. The school earned an A-minus from Niche. Afterward, students head to Kopachuck Middle School, which also went through a modern upgrade with new classrooms and refreshing interiors. The A-minus school has eight athletic teams for student participation. Gig Harbor High wraps up grade school years, receiving a B-plus from Niche. Students can enroll in one of six career paths including Business and Marketing and Skilled Trades and Art Science.
Kopachuck Middle School in Artdondale.
Artdondale Elementary School.
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Uptown Gig Harbor for indoor fun
Locals flock to Uptown Gig Harbor for all things indoor fun and culture. The latest from Hollywood can be seen on the screens of Galaxy Theaters. An afternoon at Ocean5 can involve a round of bowling, laser tag, simulation golf and modern arcade games. Teams gather to solve the multiple rooms of Escape Hour.
Galaxy Theater is IMAX theater located in the business area.
Out and about near the Galaxy Theater. The weekend spot to get away outside Artondale.
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Highway 16 is neighborhood route
Residents will need to have a car to access other metro areas. “Route 16 is the route in Tacoma,” Pullin says. “The Tacoma Narrows Bridge is a toll bridge; there is a cost associated with the great outdoors. A toll bridge is the reality in the Puget Sound.” Most locals work in Tacoma, where it’s a 13-mile drive via Route 16. Travelers who need to go outside Seattle are 37 miles from the SeaTac International Airport, which provides nonstop flights to over 120 international and domestic spots.
Tacoma Narrows bridge in Tacoma.
Highway 16 leads from the mainland in Tacoma from the Tacoma narrows.
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Important to Know
Buyers may want to be mindful that some areas, especially around the creek, have a flood risk factor.
Written By
Andrew Moreno
Photography Contributed By
Adam Michaud
Video By
Michael Carey
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Dana Soyat,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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Private 3,313 sq ft retreat on 1.36 acres with shop and unforgettable outdoor living. Tucked at the end of a long private road, this warm Northwest home blends soaring architecture, rich wood details, and walls of glass that frame the surrounding evergreens. Gather in the vaulted living room around the painted brick fireplace, entertain from the generous island kitchen with stainless appliances,
This is the home you’ve been waiting for—completely refreshed inside and out. Everything has been updated, from the septic system to the interior flooring, beautifully updated kitchen, and bathrooms. Slab quartz counters, a shiplap accent wall, and stylish gold and black hardware carried throughout the home create a cohesive and modern design. Thoughtfully redesigned and truly move-in ready, this
Fresh price. Fresh opportunity. Same beautifully maintained home. Now offered with current market expectations in mind. A strategic move based on market feedback, not condition. This Artondale gem is move-in ready with a NEW heat pump with AC, new hot water heater, fenced backyard, fruit trees, sprinkler system, three car garage and hot tub. Inside, you’ll find high-end finishes and abundant
Affordable 55+ living in Gig Harbor, WA — this 2-bedroom, 1.75-bath mobile home in Harborland Mobile Home Park delivers comfort and convenience at a price point that's hard to beat in one of Pierce County's most desirable communities. Inside you'll find a spacious open-concept living area filled with natural light and a cozy pellet stove for those Pacific Northwest evenings. A private carport
Bring your plans to build your dream home on this exquisite peaceful waterfront lot on a quiet dead end road. Come park your RV and soak up the summer sun while you kayak, paddleboard, and boat in Lovely Wollochet Bay...Your long term waterfront investment in the harbor can be enjoyed while you design and plan for your future.
This secluded custom home in central Gig Harbor is minutes to all the amenities Gig Harbor has to offer, 40 minutes to Seattle international airport. The large gourmet kitchen features a wolf stove top, double ovens, pot filler, soft close drawers, a walk-in pantry, built in dustpan and breakfast nook. With a dedicated home office, bonus/flex space, a secondary living room, large garage, two
At the mouth of Wollochet Bay in the coveted Cromwell community, this one-of-a-kind waterfront estate captures the essence of refined Pacific Northwest living. Designed by acclaimed architect Bret Dreger and masterfully built by luxury builder Gary Howe, the home blends Northwest Contemporary architecture with subtle Asian-inspired elegance, all bathed in radiant southern light. A dramatic wall
Package deal! House + adjacent lot = 2.83 acres. The 2nd lot includes a driveway, power, and cable. Public water is available at the end of the road, making it an excellent option for future building, investment, or recreational use. This secluded custom home in central Gig Harbor is minutes to all the amenities Gig Harbor has to offer, 40 minutes to Seattle international airport. The large
Private 3,313 sq ft retreat on 1.36 acres with shop and unforgettable outdoor living. Tucked at the end of a long private road, this warm Northwest home blends soaring architecture, rich wood details, and walls of glass that frame the surrounding evergreens. Gather in the vaulted living room around the painted brick fireplace, entertain from the generous island kitchen with stainless appliances,
Rare opportunity to buy a .97 acre on Wollochet Bay! This is a real gem! Imagine the joy of designing & building your perfect forever home in one of Gig Harbor's most exquisite areas of stunning homes. With 128 ft of waterfront & .97 acre, these 2 wooded parcels are a remarkable piece of land! Low to no bank waterfront makes enjoyment of the water so easy! Discovering the excitement of outdoor
Set on a private acre lot, this spacious 2-story home with a finished basement offers versatile living for entertainers. The basement features a flex room, rec area, storage, and setup for a third wood stove (brick), perfect for cozy evenings or hosting guests. The main level includes a chef’s island kitchen with stove/oven, separate oven, convection microwave, and breakfast nook, along with a
Recreational waterfront property in the heart of Rosedale. Perfect spot to explore the intricate waterways of the South Sound, by boat, kayak or SUP. Many bays, coves and islands at your doorstep. Close to the city of Gig Harbor and walking distance to Rosedale Park, recently renovated Rosedale Hall community center, tennis courts and the iconic Rosedale Market. Water can only be accessed at high
Gorgeous lot in prime Wallochet location! Geological Assessment completed. 3 Bedroom septic design submitted to County. Septic Easement also in process. Paved road access. Don't miss your chance to build your dream home in blissful, wooded serenity, but just a short drive from downtown Gig Harbor and the waterfront!
REFINED LIVING IN GIG HARBOR! A country manor marvel on 2.4+ gorgeous acres. Elegant, modern finishes throughout the interior complement the breathtaking landscaping and private grounds. Completely and impeccably recrafted home brilliantly maintains its original character, with stunning interior beams and chalet-style roof. Comfortable and bright design includes 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, as well
Gig Harbor Life! This wonderful updated 3 Bedroom ( den used as 4th ) mini estate within two minutes to one of Gig harbors best beaches and ten minutes to Tacoma having a larger fenced lot .61 Acres. Did you say you needed RV parking? We have that, Attached two garage with an additional Detached 26x32 three car garage with RV door, and additional parking behind fence. Did you say pickleball
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People move to Kopachuck Ridge/Horsehead Bay for two reasons: waterfront living and privacy. With spectacular views, hillsides of massive evergreen trees, and miles of beaches, it's no wonder real estate prices are some of the priciest in the Puget Sound area. This 5-mile-long, mostly residential community, sits on the west edge of Lower Gig Harbor Peninsula, one of numerous peninsulas in the Puget Sound. Henderson Bay and Carr Inlet are the nearby waterways. Perhaps the most remote of communities on the peninsula, Kopachuck Ridge/Horsehead Bay was settled in the 1880s by home seekers who built tiny fishing cabins to accommodate their desire for solitude and waterfront living. <br><br>Today, the median home price of $1,220,000 reflects the growing popularity of the community and the continued desire by residents for solitude. Some of the costliest homes in Pierce County can be found here. Custom-built homes along quiet streets and cul-de-sacs offer eye-catching views of Henderson Bay and Mount Ranier. Five-acre equestrian estates can be found for about $3,700,000. Waterfront homes with three levels and a private dock sell for around $6,000,000. Realtor Monty Sisson with Coldwell Banker explains the appeal of Kopachuck Ridge/Horsehead Bay, “People who come here love the water and they also want land. That’s why micro-farms and small equestrian farms as so popular around here. For the most part, buyers on the peninsulas want to be left alone to pursue their interests.”<br><br>Kids attend schools in the Peninsula District, which has an A-minus rating from Niche. Voyager Elementary teaches kindergarten through fifth grade and has an overall A-minus grade from Niche. Voyager has a notable Special Education Parent Advisory Committee that helps enrich students’ education by partnering with staff and community leaders to promote broader educational opportunities. Kopachuck Middle offers sixth through eighth grades, has high proficiency scores and also has an A-minus grade from Niche. The Gig Harbor Tides has a B-plus rating from Niche and they offer both AP courses and a program for gifted students. As Realtor Sisson adds, “While newcomers can certainly afford private schools, they often choose the county schools here because they are highly-regarded and well-loved by the community.”<br><br>Another way that residents enjoy their privacy is by engaging in outdoor pursuits. Kopachuck State Park welcomes boating, sailing, fishing, and beaches for those who enjoy spectacular sunsets. It’s 6 miles from the town of Gig Harbor, and features 280 acres of forested hiking, a mile of saltwater shoreline and panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. Cutts Island State Park is a marine park known for breathtaking views and for being home to local seals. Island living can limit buildable acres, so locals don’t begrudge the fact that Gig Harbor Golf Club offers only nine holes. Its spectacular views of Mount Rainer and of towering evergreen trees that line much of the course will make it easy to overlook too many visits to the sand traps. <br><br>Living on Kopachuck Ridge/Horsehead Bay is remote, to say the least, but that’s exactly why people like it. Rural island living does not normally offer many nearby shopping or dining options and that’s the case here, but locals have ways to draw customers. As evidenced by its name, Island View Market & Pub meets the needs of locals in two ways. They also support local farmers and growers. Rabbit Haven is a non-profit rescue and shelter for domestic rabbits. They offer adoptions and they welcome volunteers. Visitors will likely choose one or the other. When you’re ready for an afternoon of shopping or a night out, locals drive about 20 minutes to Uptown Gig Harbor. This historic town and tourist destination has more than 50 retail and dining options. Some will take their boat into the historic harbor and relax for a day or two. Check out Green.House; this upscale bistro offers outdoor dining and an extensive wine list. <br><br>The Puget Sound area offers plenty of waterfront communities with exclusive outdoor amenities. But if you’re looking for an extra level of privacy, you should spend some time learning about Kopachuck Ridge/Horsehead Bay. It may be the wisest investment of time you’ve spent in ages.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Artondale Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
13,343
Median Age
46
Population under 18
23%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
23.8%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$144,524
Significantly above the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$162,026
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
96.6%
College Graduates
52.1%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
24.2%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
63.6%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
42''
Average Winter Low Temperature
36°F
Average Summer High Temperature
76°F
Annual Snowfall
4''
Area Factors
Somewhat friendly
Bike Score®®
20/ 100
Not friendly
Walk Score®®
10/ 100
Not friendly
Transit Score®®
0/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
