$859,613Average Value$408Average Price per Sq Ft61Homes For Sale
This Pierce County community was formed around a reservoir
The Pierce County community of Lake Tapps offers homebuyers the modern practicality of Northwest Washington suburban living, while being close to nature. Much of the area is forested, and there are views of Mount Rainier, the largest stratovolcano in the Cascade Mountain Range. Lake Tapps is about 20 miles east of Tacoma and 40 miles south of Downtown Seattle. "It's a really, really nice area where some people go to retire," says Corey Lofton, a real estate broker with the Washington Real Estate Team with Kelly Right Real Estate. It's also known as a family friendly community with well-regarded school districts. The lake proper, a 5-square-mile reservoir, was built in 1911 by Puget Sound Power and Light to provide power to homes and businesses. Though it's no longer cranking out electricity, the lake is owned by Cascade Water Alliance, which supplies drinking water to surrounding municipalities.
Stunning estate home on the shores of Lake Tapps.
Beautiful rural landscape overlooking Lake Tapps.
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Parks, trails and golf courses are around Lake Tapps
Residents of the area have plenty of outdoor sites to choose from. Recreational spaces close to home include playgrounds and sports facilities and there are parks on practically every side of the water. On the north shore, Lake Tapps Park has a boat launch, a swimming beach, hiking trails and picnicking areas. An agreement between the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, the Puyallup Tribe of Indians and the Cascade Water Alliance helps preserve fish habitats. Largemouth and smallmouth bass and tiger muskies are some of the lake's inhabitants, and fishing is allowed for those with a license. At the south end of the lake, Allan Yorke Park has a playground, walking trails and a skate park. The Bonney Lake Triathlon + Duathlon & Aquabike is a Labor Day Weekend event that starts at Allan Yorke. Tapps Island Golf Course on the east side is a public golf course operating in a residential development with a homeowners association. The facility also offers a junior golf camp in the summer. The Lake Tapps Parkway Trail on the lake's northwest side is popular with cyclists.
Allan Yorke City Park in Bonney Lake has pathways for residents to walk their dogs.
Tapps Island Golf Course in Lake Tapps is a serene place to practice your swing.
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The area is primarily residential, with a mix of styles
The community of Lake Tapps is mostly residential, with some outlying rural areas with small farms. “Lake Tapps is a true lake community, but there is a wider mix of home styles and prices than one might expect. There are some neighborhoods with new, traditional-style homes and some with midcentury homes," says Christine Gordon, a long-time resident of Pierce County and a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty Tacoma. The median home price over 12 months — about $725,000 in early 2025 — was about $330,000 higher than the national median. Some surrounding areas, such as nearby Prairie Heights, are less densely populated, have more of a rural vibe and with prices trending lower.
Bonney Lake has newly built homes within the neighborhood.
Newly built homes in Bonney Lake go for the more modern aesthetic.
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Several well-ranked public school districts cover the area
School districts include the Dieringer School District, which has an A-minus grade from Niche and covers parts of the lake's north, northwest and east sides. Three area districts have a B-plus grades: the Auburn School District covers areas north of the lake, the White River School District is associated with areas east and south and the Sumner-Bonney Lake School District corresponds with south and southwest sections.
Lake Tapps Elementary School entrance.
North Tapps Middle School signage.
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There's dining by the lake and shopping nearby
Al Lago Ristorante is by the lake, with chef-created Italian dishes and an extensive wine list. Island Lodge by Al Lago is on the other side of the lake at Tapps Island Golf Course. Most nearby commercial areas are west of the lake: Lakeland Town Center has a Haggen grocery store and assorted restaurants. Sumner has a WinCo Foods, a Fred Meyer and various eateries along Main Street. About 8 miles northwest of the lake's north shore is The Outlet Collection Seattle in Auburn. In addition to being the largest outlet shopping center in the Pacific Northwest, the site hosts events, markets and classes throughout the year. La Pulguita Outdoor Market is held here on weekends, year-round.
The Outlet Collection in Auburn is the closest mall to Algona and hosts many brand name stores.
Bonney Lake residents can get their groceries done at Fred Meyer.
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A military base and tribal-owned businesses provide jobs
Military installation, Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM), located close to Tacoma, is one of Pierce County's largest employers, with about 15,000 civilian and contract employees. The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, out of the Muckleshoot Reservation northeast of Lake Tapps, provides more than 3,000 jobs through fisheries, gaming, and management of natural resources. Municipal or county operations and school districts have other employment opportunities. Retail, healthcare and manufacturing also have a share, with jobs concentrated in nearby cities like Sumner to the west and Auburn to the north. Those commuting farther into the Seattle area may work for tech or aerospace companies.
Military training from Joint Base Lewis-McChord is quite noticeable in Dupont Washington.
The Muckleshoot Casino is a major employer in the Lake Tapps area.
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It's a car-dependent area with some commuter options
Many of the residential pockets around the lake have short or curved streets; although sidewalks aren't always a given, low traffic makes the streets somewhat walkable. Otherwise, Lake Tapps is car-dependent, and major roads include state Routes 167 and 410. Interstate 5 is to the west, running through Tacoma. Some people take commuter rail to cut down on driving. The closest stations for Sound Transit Sounder commuter rail are Sumner and Auburn, which offer service on the S Line: Seattle-Lakewood/Tacoma. Pierce County Transit, Sound Transit and King County Metro buses also connect the region. Pierce Transit's Lakeland Hills Express runs from Auburn Station to Lakeland Hills Way on the north side of Lake Tapps. On the south side of the lake, a Sound Transit bus from Sumner Station stops at the Bonney Lake Park & Ride. The CAP Index crime score is 2 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4.
Written By
Robin Silberman
Photography Contributed By
Perry Cucinotta
Video By
Stewart Taveras
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Timothy Manchik,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Lake Tapps, WA sell after 45 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Tapps, WA over the last 12 months is $899,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Beautiful 2,327 sq ft Messina floor plan! Upgraded top to bottom, this home is built for easy, active-adult living. The kitchen boasts painted cabinets, 42" uppers with crown moulding, a stainless hood, under-cabinet lighting, 3cm quartz counters, and a full GE Profile suite plus LG fridge, perfect for entertaining at the oversized bar or island. The living room impresses with a stacked-stone gas
Well-maintained Bonney Lake home featuring a functional floor plan and thoughtful updates throughout. The bright, open main living area flows into a spacious kitchen with ample cabinetry, generous counter space, and a breakfast bar for added convenience. The primary bedroom includes an ensuite bath and walk-in closet, while additional bedrooms provide flexible space for a home office, guests, or
Model address is: 14005 208th Ave E, Bonney Lake, WA 98391. The Hemingway Plan in the Sumner-Bonney Lake SD! This plan greets guests with a charming covered front porch. On the main floor, you’ll find a study, an inviting great room, large gourmet kitchen with a spacious center island & bright sunroom. Upstairs features a convenient laundry, a versatile loft & four generous bedrooms, including an
"Better Than New" Isn't a cliché - it's a PROMISE. This exceptional home delivers proof: a pre-listing inspection with 100% follow-up completed, a free 13-month home warranty and thoughtful upgrades throughout - all meticulously maintained. Fresh paint, new flooring, updated appliances and quality finishes at every turn. The curated kitchen is the heart of it all, featuring an entertainer's
Move-in ready 2-bedroom + den manufactured home offering 1,488 sq. ft. of comfortable living space. The spacious primary suite features an attached private bath, while new luxury vinyl plank flooring and fresh interior paint create a clean, modern feel throughout. Stay comfortable year-round with a heat pump and cozy wood stove. All appliances are included, making this home truly turnkey.
Welcome home to this charming 1,338 sq. ft. 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence featuring a spacious 28' x 28' detached garage with room for two vehicles plus additional workshop or storage space. Situated on a fully fenced property, this home offers ample parking, including plenty of space for an RV. Enjoy outdoor living year-round with covered front and back porches—perfect for relaxing, entertaining
Beautiful Bonney Lake rambler on 5 fully fenced acres welcomes you with a charming covered front porch and warm hardwood entry. Spacious great room showcases vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, and a cozy wood-burning stove—perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Open-concept kitchen features updated kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, center island, recessed
Beautiful 2,327 sq ft Messina floor plan! Upgraded top to bottom, this home is built for easy, active-adult living. The kitchen boasts painted cabinets, 42" uppers with crown moulding, a stainless hood, under-cabinet lighting, 3cm quartz counters, and a full GE Profile suite plus LG fridge, perfect for entertaining at the oversized bar or island. The living room impresses with a stacked-stone gas
Open-water, western exposure waterfront living on Lake Tapps! This exceptional home captures stunning sunset views & offers seamless indoor-outdoor living with a sprawling patio/deck, private dock, & boat lift—perfect for enjoying lake life to the fullest. Step inside to a grand marble entry with a striking barrel-vaulted ceiling, leading into an expansive open-concept layout. The chef’s kitchen
Enjoy 55+ Living in Tehaleh at its finest with this highly desirable home with incredible Mount Rainier views, greenbelt and retention ponds views too, close to walking trails, parks and all the amenities of this amazing master-planned community. This home has every possible upgrade and improvement to make it so comfortable and relaxing. This home features over $360,000 in upgrades compared to
This beautifully crafted retreat by Garrette Custom Homes is truly priced to quickly welcome the next fortunate homeowners. A perfectly private 10,813 square-foot homesite, 3-car garage, split-rail fencing and lush landscaping paint a picture-perfect setting. Built in 2019, this distinctive one-story home is 3,240 sq ft of solid beauty. Striking curb appeal is evident, comprised of quality stone
Western exposure waterfront home on Deer Island in Lake Tapps offering incredible views, natural light and some of the warmest waterfront living in the area! This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home blends classic character with thoughtful updates, featuring original hardwood floors in the bedrooms and an updated bathroom. Enjoy new laminate flooring throughout the living room, kitchen, and spacious
Welcome to your private retreat at Lake Tapps in the coveted Dieringer School District! This updated 2,378 sq ft home sits on a serene 0.77-acre lot, offering the perfect blend of privacy and convenience—just minutes from lake access, parks, boat launch, shopping, dining, and Tapps Island Golf. A long paved driveway leads to a massive culdesac-style parking area for 15+ vehicles, boats, or an RV,
Welcome to beautiful Verterra in Tehaleh, a premier 55+ community offering resort-style living. This home is better than new, with landscaping and so many upgrades! Enjoy this premium lot overlooking the broad green grass park, this Muros model features 2 spacious bedrooms, 2 baths with walk-in showers, and a versatile home office/den with built-in cabinetry and countertops, with green park
You've earned a lifestyle of comfortable luxury and unmatched amenities, and you deserve that lifestyle to be wrapped in value! This distinctive duplex, with $126K of exciting upgrades brings impressive flair, function and affordability to Trilogy's finest 55+ resort-style community. Majestic Mt Rainier fills the window of the unique junior suite area, and every drive home frames a
Convenient to Highways 410, 167, 512 and prime shopping, dining and entertainment locations, Renwood's garden style setting features spacious 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartment homes featuring airy, open floor plans, gourmet kitchens, and full sized washers and dryers. With a large seasonal pool, outdoor community area, a modern fitness center, playground, BBQ, business center, and luxurious community
Brand new, conveniently located Bonney Lake apartments. At Hillside you'll find thoughtfully designed floor plans and amenities. Choose between spacious one- or two-bedroom apartments and enjoy easy access to local shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Fall in love with the luxury and charm of your new home at Greenwood Heights Apartments. Located in Bonney Lake, WA Greenwood Heights Apartments is tucked away from big city life offering quiet and peaceful residential living in the Summit neighborhood. However, you will never find yourself too far from dining and convenient shopping locations including Target, Red Robin, Marshalls and Sonic
Four Lakes is the newest premier luxury apartment community in the beautiful Lakeland Hills, just a stone's throw away from Lake Tapps. Convenient to Highway 167 and prime shopping locations, Four Lakes features spacious 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units, some with attached garages, some with views of Mt. Rainier, and all with microwaves, washers & dryers, and extra storage. The deluxe clubhouse and state
If you're looking for a comfortable and convenient living experience in Bonney Lake, WA, Northwest Terrace Apartments are perfect for you. With a great location and top-notch amenities, these apartments are designed to provide you with a peaceful and hassle-free lifestyle. The apartments come with a range of modern amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, washer and dryer, and private balcony.
Beautiful Bonney Lake home with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Located in the blossoming Tehaleh community, this home features a large primary suite with large walk-in closet, primary bathroom, stainless steel appliances, LARGE fully-fenced yard and spacious one car garage. Easy commute to Lake Tapps, Auburn, Tacoma, and SeaTac Airport. This ALMOST new, single-family home boasts 3 spacious bedrooms,
Beautiful Bonney Lake townhome with 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. Located in the blossoming Tehaleh community, this home features a large primary suite with large walk-in closet, primary bathroom, stainless steel appliances and two car garage. Easy commute to Lake Tapps, Auburn, Tacoma, and SeaTac Airport. This BRAND-NEW, townhome boasts 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.25 bathrooms and 1430 sq feet! With a
Bright 3 bedroom 2 bath home in family park. The large kitchen opens to the dining room and huge family room. Laundry room off kitchen. Additional living room with 2 bedrooms and bath at one end, main suite with full bath at the other end. Covered front porch. Storage shed. Park offers sports court area. Block away from Hwy 410 and Safeway. Rental includes lot rent, 2 adults, 2 cars. The tenant
Breathe in the scent of freshly cut grass and drive past the occasional grazing cow as you head home to Prairie Heights. While the atmosphere feels lightyears from city limits, many people who call the neighborhood home commute into the city every day. “People are coming down our way now and really enjoying that slower, more country-style living—and then they can drive to those bigger areas to work,” explains Kelly Heap of Terrafin, an award-winning Realtor with decades of experience in the area. “We are getting expansions, but it hasn’t lost that small-town flavor.”<br><br>Just over 40 miles south of Seattle, the neighborhood is home to about 5,000 people. Some yards feature decorative shrubbery and wooden fences, while others include vast patches of grass interrupted only by towering trees. Find manufactured homes with covered decks in Shiloh Park and contemporary-style homes with stone accents in gated communities like Winter Pond. While streets in homeowner associations veer off main roads and lead to quaint cul-de-sacs with several homes along the rounded edges, others lead to dirt roads and apparent countryside. Mobile and manufactured homes begin at around $175,000, while three-bedroom homes on at least 1-acre lots range from $400,000 to $1,000,000, with price impacted by year of construction and home features. <br><br>Though the neighborhood shares many traits and amenities with Buckley, students in Prairie Heights attend different schools within the White River School District, the 6th-best school district in Pierce County, according to Niche. Students begin at Foothills Elementary, a B-plus-rated school walkable from home. From here, students transition to Glacier Middle and ultimately graduate from White River High, both of which earn a B rating. White River High also includes after-school activities like Knowledge Bowl, Diversity Club, and Future Business Leaders of America. <br><br>Surrounded by parks, the neighborhood bubbles over with recreational opportunities. “There’s a smaller lake, Bonney Lake, but Lake Tapps is the big draw,” Heap says. Within 6 miles, reach the shores of Lake Tapps and gain access to an array of activities when the weather is right, usually from June through October. “It has fishing, it has swimming, but people can also ski on the lake and do fun stuff like that,” Heap expands. You can also enjoy the sound of local bands and the buzz of an outdoor marketplace throughout July and August at Allan Yorke, a small park at the lake’s southern edge. On the other hand, you can take advantage of the state park surrounding the lake, which includes over 100 acres of beaches, picnic areas and scenic trails. <br><br>When you’re looking for a place to hit the green, Tapps Island Golf Course provides an option right at the center of the lake, allowing captivating waterside and mountain views to accompany your every swing. If gazing at Mount Rainier as you play beckons you to climb to its peak, reach the mountains in less than 50 miles. During the winter months, build your strength to prepare for the big climb at Gordon Family YMCA, less than 7 miles away, or drive into Tacoma to access multiple climbing gyms. <br><br>While you won’t find retailers right in the neighborhood, the nearest commercial corridor is only 3 miles away. To pick up the basics, browse Safeway or Fred Meyer, or, for bulk shopping, ride another mile down Route 410 and gather everything you need at Costco. Along the same road are urgent cares, coffee shops and several restaurants as well. Slide into a booth at Hungry Dawg’s Diner for brunch or enjoy chimichangas and margaritas at Mazatlan for dinner. <br><br>Though Prairie Heights has no public transit, Route 410 borders the neighborhood to the north, allowing a simple commute into the surrounding cities. “We have people that commute to Seattle, to the east side, which is where a lot of our tech companies reside,” Heap explains. As you drive, enjoy pastoral views for about 30 miles of the trip. If traveling to Tacoma instead, reach Thea Foss Waterway in 20 miles and Point Defiance within 30 miles. For travels beyond Washington state limits, drive less than 35 miles to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Experience the convergence of commuter-friendly living and peaceful rural life in Prairie Heights.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Lake Tapps Has More Owners
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
2
Median Rent
$3,200
Median Single Family Home Rent
$3,200
Demographics
Total Population
58,734
Median Age
39
Population under 18
26.6%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
14.8%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$116,779
Significantly above the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$138,522
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
94.6%
Above the national average
89%
College Graduates
28.7%
Advanced Degrees
9%
% Population in Labor Force
71.4%
Above the national average
64.9%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
43''
Average Winter Low Temperature
33°F
Average Summer High Temperature
75°F
Annual Snowfall
7''
Area Factors
Somewhat bikeable
Bikeability®
30/ 100
Fairly walkable
Walkability®
50/ 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.