Often considered an extension of Olympia, Lacey is a city in its own right. “It’s not as artsy as Olympia. It’s more downhome and family-friendly,” says Debbi Boyd with Real Estate of the South Sound, a local broker since 2001. “You see more kids fairs and events where you can take the whole family, and we have more neighborhood parks.” Lacey has nearly 6,000 trees on its streets and over 1,200 acres of green space. Additionally, its position on South Puget Sound means that wetlands and lakes are often a short drive away. Of its roughly 55,000 residents, some have been here for years, while others have moved recently from out of state. Service members often live in Lacey too since Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) is about 20 miles east.
Cozy, colorful tree lined streets of Lacey WA area.
Don't miss out on delicious drinks at Ebony & Ivory Coffee in downtown Lacey WA.
Enjoy beauty all around you when living in the Indian Summer residential area.
Plenty of bus stops to go around in Lacey WA.
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Exploring Puget Sound and local lakes, Regional Athletic Complex
While not quite as waterfront as Olympia, Lacey has quick access to South Sound and its wetlands. Nisqually Reach, one of many waterways here, is on the city’s north side, and Tolmie State Park is a 105-acre green space on the shoreline. Anderson Island is visible from the park’s rocky beaches and saltwater marshes. Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is on the city’s east side with boardwalk trails and over 275 bird species. Lacey also has two large lakes, Long Lake and Hicks Lake, on its south side, and several other lakes are nearby. Regional Athletic Complex is nearby with five baseball fields, three basketball half-courts and six soccer fields. “A lot of kids play soccer there, even during the winter,” Boyd says. “People come in for tournaments and competitions, too, and it can get pretty busy.”
Stop by Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge in the Lacey area.
A common sight to see at Hicks Lake in The Lakes WA.
The Lakes offers waterfront property along all of the lakes.
Long Lake offers stunning views and waterfront property in The Lakes WA.
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Family-oriented events in Lacey
The Lacey Spring Fun Fair, held in May at Saint Martin’s University, has been a tradition since 1988. It includes bounce houses, carnival rides, kids' games, food vendors and other attractions. Thurston County Fairgrounds are on the city’s west side, and they have animal, agricultural and craft exhibits in late July. About 5 miles south of Lacey, the Olympia Regional Airport hosts the Olympic Airshow in June, featuring historic planes from the World War II era.
Schilters Farm offers a fall festival every October of the year in Lacey WA area.
Kids climb haystack pyramid at Schilters Family Farm just outside Nisqually Indian Community.
Don't forget the corn maze while visiting Shilters Family Farm near Nisqually Indian Community.
Enjoy the outdoor area of Shilters Farm Harvest Festival in Lacey WA area.
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High grades for North Thurston Public Schools
North Thurston Public School District serves this area and gets a B-plus from Niche. It’s the most diverse district in Thurston County, ahead of six others. Aspire Performing Arts Academy, rated an A-minus, is a lottery school for grades six through eight, and extracurriculars range from chess to choir. Saint Martin’s University is a private institution in central Lacey, established in 1895.
Salish Middle School serves the Edgewater students in the Lacey area of Washington.
North Thurston High School has an enrollment of 1,440 students.
Olympic View Elementary School has a 23:1 student-teacher ratio.
Chinook Middle School has a total enrollment of 934 students.
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Prices similar to Olympia and Tacoma, new development
At $500,000, Lacey’s median sale price is roughly the same as neighboring Olympia and Tacoma. Still, it’s about $350,000 cheaper than Seattle. One- and two-story homes cover most of the area, priced similarly to the median. However, manufactured homes toward Central Lacey can go for $50,000, while waterfront estates in The Lakes neighborhood can reach $2 million. “You know you’re in Olympia because of the historic buildings. When you get to Lacey, everything’s newer, and you can have developments anywhere from 25 to 2,500 homes,” Boyd says. Built in the 2000s and onward, new builds concentrate on the city’s northern and southern sides. They’re typically in Hawks Prairie, Horizons and other neighborhoods.
Spacious home with grand façades, & elegant landscaping in the Lacey area.
Colorful homes line the streets of Lacey WA area.
Stunning craftsmen style brick home with fall colors in the Lacey WA area.
Many of the beach front properties offer a dock for the boat along Long Lake in Lacey area.
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Shopping and dining in South Sound Center, Producer District
Tourists often check out Downtown Olympia’s murals and galleries, but Lacey has commercial centers of its own. On the city’s west side, South Sound Center has big box stores, and locally owned restaurants are nearby along Pacific Avenue. The Producer’s District, on the city’s north side, holds industrial warehouses and distribution centers, but it also has a few breweries and wineries. Sports complexes are here too, such as Archery World and Cirque Climbing. Just south of this area, Martin Way is another commercial corridor with grocers and additional restaurants.
Looking for a spot to get your homework done? Starbucks has you covered in the Lacey area.
Multiple shops to peruse on Sleater Kinney in Lacey WA.
Don't forget the candy deals at Target in Lacey WA.
You can get most things at Target in Lacey WA.
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Rain and clouds, crime levels in Lacey
Lacey’s climate is typical of the Pacific Northwest. It gets about 50 inches of annual rain, 20 inches more than the national average, and has about 230 cloudy days per year. The rainiest, cloudiest months are November to January, but summers are sunny and clear. Wildfire smoke can cover the region during this time, carried in from the Cascade Mountains.
In 2023, Lacey had a monthly average of 66 violent offenses per 100,000 people. That’s much less than state and national rates. Its monthly average for property crimes was 245 per 100,000 people, aligning with the state rate but much higher than the national one.
Salish Middle School serves the Edgewater students in the Lacey area of Washington.
The picturesque downtown Olympia Heritage Park is the place to get your walk in.
Gateway Park in Edgewater area offers amazing views and space to play.
Horizon Pointe residents can catch beautiful sunsets just minutes away at the boat harbor.
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Commuting to Olympia, JBLM via Interstate 5
Interstate 5 is Lacey’s major thoroughfare, and it can back up with traffic during rush hour. It goes about 5 miles west to Downtown Olympia and about 20 miles east to Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Tumwater and Tacoma are also along this freeway, but Intercity Transit operates several bus routes to these neighboring areas. Lacey also has the Amtrak Cascades rail that goes roughly 60 miles to Seattle and 120 miles to Portland.
Getting around on bike is the go to in The Lakes area of Lacey WA.
The Intercity transit is there to help in Lacey WA.
The Intercity Transit is a free bus system for the community of Horizon Pointe and beyond.
Tanglewilde residents can utilize the Centennial Station for Amtrak and local bus rides.
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Written By
Matt Medl
Photography Contributed By
William King
Video By
Anne Sheridan
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jim Clifford,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Lacey, WA sell after 44 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Lacey, WA over the last 12 months is $519,995, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to the highly sought-after Kensington community in Lacey! This beautifully refreshed 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 2,010 sq. ft. of comfortable living with the convenience of a low-maintenance, lock-and-leave lifestyle. The HOA maintains the front yard, allowing you more time to enjoy life and less time on upkeep. Inside, you'll find a bright and inviting floor plan featuring brand-new
This "better than new" 5 bedroom home built in 2024 is ideal for multi-generational living with a generous sized bedroom and 3/4 bath on main floor as well as 2nd kitchen and additional laundry area added by sellers. Owners have invested substantially in the home since they purchased it 2 years ago, including installing blinds throughout, new interior paint in most rooms, extending kitchen to
Welcome home to this beautifully refreshed 3-bedroom, 1.75 bath home offering comfortable living on a spacious, private cul-de-sac lot in one of Olympia's most established neighborhoods. Thoughtfully updated with fresh interior paint, brand new carpet in some rooms, remodeled bathrooms, new kitchen appliances and countertops, and attractive landscaping, this home is move in ready! Walk into the
Beautifully appointed golf course "Nice" Floor plan offering thoughtful upgrades, inviting living spaces, and stunning fairway views. Engineered hickory hardwood floors flow throughout the main living areas. The kitchen features quartz countertops, full tile backsplash, farmhouse sink, upgraded cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, gas range, and convenient pull-out shelving. The kitchen opens
Welcome home to a charming front porch and an upgraded entry door that sets the tone for the quality found throughout. Inside, the inviting great room is filled with natural light and features an upgraded skylight and a custom fireplace. The beautifully appointed kitchen offers upgraded cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, a gas range, and a eating space highlighted by
Welcome to the beautifully maintained Refresh floor plan, perfectly situated against a tranquil greenbelt for added privacy and peaceful views. This thoughtfully designed home features 2 bedrooms plus a den with elegant French glass doors and plantation shutters throughout. The inviting entry welcomes you with ceramic tile before opening to the spacious great room with engineered hardwood floors.
Welcome to this beautifully appointed Shea “Nice” floor plan, positioned on the 18th Fairway while offering privacy surrounded by mature trees. Thoughtfully designed with quality finishes throughout, this home features A/C, engineered hardwood flooring, and timeless plantation shutters. The stunning kitchen features premium Monogram stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and a full tile
This Beautifully appointed corner-lot home featuring the popular Shea “Nice” floor plan and a stunning European courtyard-inspired backyard. Thoughtful upgrades throughout include engineered hardwood flooring, upgraded millwork, and A/C. The private den offers Berber carpet, a built-in desk, and glass French doors with a transom window, creating an ideal home office or flex space. The second
Welcome to one of Silver Hawk's standout homes, where thoughtful design, exceptional outdoor living, and everyday functionality come together on an impressive, oversized lot. This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 3,048 sq ft of living space, featuring a main-floor office, upstairs bonus room, and a welcoming mudroom with custom built-in storage for coats, shoes, and essentials. The well-appointed
Home in Desirable Wooded Village Brookwood! This 1,344-square-foot manufactured home located in the welcoming Wooded Village Brookwood community in Lacey is waiting for its new owner. With extensive improvements completed within the last six months, this home offers peace of mind, modern comfort, and exceptional value. Step inside to discover new vinyl plank flooring, energy-efficient vinyl
Price adjustment and $10,000 buyer credit towards closing costs or rate buy down!! Welcome to this beautifully updated 2,644 sq. ft. tri-level home offering the perfect blend of architectural character and peaceful Lake Pattison living. Inspired by mid-century modern design, this home features soaring vaulted ceilings with exposed beams, dramatic triangular clerestory windows, and walls of glass
Price adjustment to stay competitive with today’s market. Modern 2-story in Meridian Campus—move-in ready, near I-5, JBLM and Hawks Prairie. This 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home offers approximately 2,555 sq ft of living space. Main-level living with an open-concept kitchen, dining room and living room, with luxury vinyl flooring. The kitchen features granite counters, walk-in pantry, stainless
Financing Available on this well cared for Energy Star Certified Home with power producing SOLAR and fruit producing gardens. Come visit, you will enjoy the parklike setting of owner occupied Lakeview Meadows a 55+ community and explore the opportunity to own this 4 bedroom home with den. Use each room to your liking-Crafts-Office-Library and tons of extra storage...bring everything. This quality
Spacious Hawks Prairie Community home in the desirable Meridian Campus offering over 3,000 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space. Soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, fresh interior paint, and quality finishes create a bright, inviting atmosphere throughout. The open-concept floor plan is ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen features a large center island, ample
Great opportunity to make this Lake Forest home your own! This home features a two-car garage, fenced yard, mature trees, and established landscaping. The home has been cleaned out, and more photos to come. Bring your vision and make this space your own! Enjoy the convenience of nearby shopping, dining, parks, and everyday amenities, with easy access to I-5 for commuting throughout the South
Thanks for checking out Switchback Apartments. We are a locally owned and professionally managed newly constructed community in Lacey, WA. Switchback is conveniently located near Cabela’s, Tolmie State Park, Costco and an abundance of shopping and dining opportunities. Our 1- and 2-bedroom units are a great value featuring quartz countertops, luxury vinyl plank flooring, stainless steel
Welcome to The Marq on Martin Apartments, a vibrant apartment community located in the heart of Lacey, Washington. Offering a blend of modern comfort and convenience, our studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartment homes feature stylish finishes such as stainless-steel appliances, wood-inspired flooring, and private patios or balconies. Enjoy resort-style amenities like our seasonal pool, year-round
Military Discount 5% $100 Security Deposit OACFREE INTERNET & CABLE TV !Pickle ball coming SOON!Pet Spa is now Open! There is no charge to use the pet spa! Residents can bring furry family members for an easy wash and dry!Welcome to Lacey Park Apartments! Conveniently located near shopping, pharmacy, food centers, schools, a main bus line, and a trail head. We are
Discover Toscana Apartment Homes in Lacey, WA, offering stylish studio, 1, and 2-bedroom apartments for rent. Our modern floor plans feature quartz countertops, sleek appliances, and high ceilings. Enjoy resort-style amenities including a fitness center, clubhouse, conference room, and outdoor pool & spa. Conveniently located near I-5, shopping, and Tolmie State Park, Toscana puts you at the
Arrow's cozy, residential location in Lacey offers both a sense of seclusion and community connectivity, with various everyday conveniences just a short distance away. From dining and shopping to beautiful waterfront parks, woodland hikes, and extensive nature preserves, you'll have access to everything you need to enjoy an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Welcome to Martingale Apartments, the ultimate winner in life and apartment living. Discover our community located in Lacey WA, where you'll find everything you need to thrive. Get ready to indulge in a clubhouse filled with endless recreation options, from cozy lounges with big screens and billiards to a luxurious resort-style pool and spa. When you're ready to unwind, retreat to your modern
Welcome to The Elowen, the new garden-style apartments for rent in Lacey. Surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, our charming community feels like a personal hideaway but is just minutes from Olympia and all the conveniences of city life. Our new and exciting community of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments is designed for quiet comfort, natural light, and lasting connection. We're a
Welcome to Hogum Bay Apartments, where curated convenience style living takes shape!Designed for a connected, modern lifestyle, this is a place where your daily routine flows effortlessly, from morning coffee to evening plans, all within a dynamic, walkable environment. Hogum Bay Apartments brings together contemporary design, curated retail, and vibrant public spaces to create a
Experience the perfect blend of quality, comfort, and convenience in our selection of brand-new and classic cozy apartments and townhomes for rent. Choose from thoughtfully designed one, two, and three-bedroom floor plans to suit your lifestyle.Our Brand-New Homes feature: ceiling fans for year-round comfort, a fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, solid surface
Offering fabulous new Lacey, WA apartments for rent! Our pet-friendly studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments are perfectly appointed, with in-demand features and upgraded amenities like full-size washers and dryers, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances, while our resident clubhouse with fitness center, complimentary coffee, and an outdoor pool are perfect for relaxing and
Fully Remodeled 2BR, 1BA Apartment | In-Unit W/D | Walk to Shopping | Easy I-5 AccessQuiet location off Sleater Kinney Rd Lacey/Olympia AreaBe the first to live in this completely remodeled, like-new bottom-floor unit featuring modern upgrades throughout and a highly convenient location.This home offers a bright, clean, and functional layout with premium finishes designed
Pacific Place is a luxury, gated community featuring ATTACHED GARAGES to our one, one plus den, and two bedroom apartment homes in Olympia, WA Our standards are exceptional, and our designs create the environment of having your very own home. Large picture windows let light flood our open and bright designs. Our superb location is close to dining, shopping, parks, JBLM, and Olympia. Expect the
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.
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