$485,962Average Value$267Average Price per Sq Ft87Homes For Sale
The Gateway to Mount Rainier
Located about 20 miles southeast of Olympia, the small-but-growing city of Yelm has long been known as the "Gateway to Mount Rainier," the nearby tourist attraction visible throughout the city. Incorporated in 1924, Yelm has spent most of its life as a farm town. However, in recent years its convenient location, relative affordability and fast-growing roster of shops and restaurants has made it increasingly popular with Olympia-area homebuyers, particularly those employed at nearby Joint Base Lewis-McChord, located just north of town. “Your dollar goes a lot farther in Yelm than in Lacey or Olympia,” says Realtor Valerie Noyes of Pettit Realty, who has lived in Yelm for about 10 years. “You definitely get more home for your money here, and it’s easier to find larger yards, even an acre or two.”
North Yelm offers amazing views of Mount Rainier throughout the year.
The joint base Lewis McCord is only 15 minutes away from Yelm.
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Rural ranch-style homes and modern subdivisions
Yelm’s housing market features a range of options, from condos to luxury homes “It’s not just pure subdivisions here,” says Noyes. “There’s everything from traditional neighborhoods to condos to rural space, so there’s a lot of diversity of lifestyles. The base is the largest employer in the area, but a lot of people work in agriculture, and you would be surprised how many people work mostly remote jobs in Seattle and just commute to the city once or twice a week.” Much of the city’s housing stock is made up of midcentury ranch-style homes, especially closer to the city center. However, rapid subdivision development around the edges of the city means that at any given time the majority of homes on the market are modern two-story contemporary builds, which typically offer a bit more interior space and a little less yard than most older homes in the city. In addition to standalone homes, there are a few apartment complexes and townhouses, while rural lots surrounding the city are popular with those looking to custom-build. Most homes in Yelm sell for between $400,000 and $600,000.
The housing market in Yelm is mostly made up of midcentury-ranch style homes.
North Yelm offers beautiful new constructions in newly developed areas.
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Endless trails around Yelm
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in and around Yelm. “There are just endless hiking trails around here,” according to Noyes. “Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, you name it, there’s space to do it near town.” The Yelm-Tenino Trail, a paved 14-mile path popular with cyclists and runners, connects Yelm to nearby Tenino and intersects the 22-mile Chehalis Western Trail. Cochrane Memorial Park, located near the city center, features walking trails, a pond and picnic areas. For those interested in exploring real wilderness, Mount Rainier National Park is close enough for day trips, offering hiking, camping and breathtaking views.
Cochrane Memorial Park in Yelm has for some amazing photo opportunities.
Nisqually Wildlife Refuge near North Yelm has a boardwalk with plenty of views.
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Yelm Avenue shops and restaurants
Yelm Avenue is the heart of the local retail district, where a mix of local businesses and national chains serve the community. The Yelm Food Co-Op offers organic and locally sourced groceries, while larger retailers like Walmart and Safeway provide everyday essentials. A growing selection of locally owned restaurants means Yelm residents no longer have to drive to Olympia to enjoy a night out — these days the city is home to a host of eateries offering everything from Japanese to Mexican to barbecue.
Mariachi Mexican Restaurant in Yelm serves up some authentic Hispanic dishes.
Youngs Teriyaki has got some great Japanese style take out to enjoy in Yelm.
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Yelm High sports draw crowds
The Yelm School District has a B-minus rating on Niche and oversees five elementary schools, two middle schools and Yelm High School. “High school sports are a big deal in this town,” says Noyes. “The football stadium is packed on Friday nights, and you get crowds showing up for everything from wrestling to cheerleading competitions.”
Yelm High School
Yelm Middle School is home of Whirlwinds Pride.
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Prairie Days and other events
While Yelm isn't known for its festivals, the city's annual Prairie Days event features a parade, food vendors and a small carnival, drawing a number of regional visitors to the town every June.
State highways 507 and 510
State highways 507 and 510 connect Yelm to the greater Olympia region. While Olympia’s Intercity Transit does run a bus route to Yelm, the majority of residents rely on cars to get around. It’s a 20-mile drive to downtown Olympia and 9 miles to the nearest entrance to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, though most of the base's major buildings are further away.
Average crime rates and
Yelm’s property and violent crime rates are generally in line with state averages, according to the FBI's data. Like nearby Olympia, Yelm has a cool climate, with mean daily temperatures ranging from the mid-60s in summer to the high 30s in winter. With the exception of high summer, the area is fairly cloudy throughout most of the year, and during winter it's typically overcast about 80% of the time.
Written By
Andrew Moreno
Photography Contributed By
Howard Snyder
Video By
Anne Sheridan
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Melissa Burnham,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Yelm, WA sell after 70 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Yelm, WA over the last 12 months is $505,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
3 MOVE IN READY HOMES!!! ** OUR LAST 3 CAR CAMDEN PLAN**Tahoma Terra in Yelm, is a community of distinctive new homes by award-winning builder Soundbuilt Homes. Located with convenient access to JBLM and surrounded by numerous parks and open spaces. Homes range from 2,033 to 2,853 sq ft with thoughtfully designed floor plans featuring three-car garages, main-floor guest suites, and dens.
Tahoma Terra in Yelm, a thoughtfully designed community of distinctive new homes by award-winning builder Soundbuilt Homes. Located with convenient access to JBLM and surrounded by numerous parks and open spaces. Homes range from 2,033 to 2,853 sq ft with thoughtfully designed floor plans featuring three-car garages, main-floor guest suites, and dens. Main-floor living floor plan available. Plans
3 MIR HOMES!!!$35k price reduction!!! & $18,000 FLEX $$$$ with preferred lender. Welcome to Crystal Springs in Yelm, a thoughtfully designed new-home community by award-winning builder Soundbuilt Homes, 5 plans never built in Yelm before. From 1,839 to 2,777 sq.ft., priced from the mid-$500s. Enjoy a nearby community park and convenient access to Yelm Middle School, downtown Yelm shopping,
Set on 1.20 acres in Yelm, walkable to PK–8 schools, this better than new home offers the rare combination of historic character and a fully modernized lifestyle-just a short stroll from local shops, cafés, golf course, trails. Brand new from the studs out w/soaring ceilings, an open flow & seamless indoor-outdoor living. Stunning chef’s kitchen w/quartz countertops, SS appliances, statement
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*New Listing* Buy with Confidence-includes 1 yr home warranty. Amazing home in desirable Nisqually Pines-Heated pool-Clubhouse-Parks-River/Beach access-B-Ball courts-Trails and so much more. A true must see. Relax and unwind in this well maintained one level home. Comfortable open kitchen concept with soaring vaulted ceilings ready to entertain. Enjoy your spacious backyard retreat with fully
Amazing well kept home in Yelm waiting just for you. Come enjoy the beach inspired retreat fully fenced, landscaped back yard that includes deck-patio- hot tub -curbs, easy operation sprinkler system, mature planting and YES a beach get away with working lighthouse, low voltage lighting, multiple outdoor living zones right in your own back yard with for year round enjoyment. New exterior paint-
This three-bedroom home sits on a large corner lot that gives you plenty of privacy inside the gated community of Clearwood where you can enjoy nature while still living close to city stores and restaurants. The home itself is a 5 minute walk to Clear lake. When you walk inside the home, you will find an open living room centered around a gas fireplace. This fireplace keeps the main living space
BUYER INCENTIVE: Preferred lender is offering 1% lender credit towards closing costs and/or fixed or temp rate buydowns. Seller agent offering 1 YEAR HOME WARRANTY OR 3 MONTHS PREPAID LAWN MAINTENANCE! Stop scrolling, this one earns it. Just 30 minutes from JBLM's East Gate and two blocks from downtown Yelm, the location alone checks every box. The white picket fence and the park-like backyard is
Unparalleled custom estate on Lake Lawrence showcasing breathtaking Mt. Rainier & lake views w/exceptional craftsmanship throughout. Rich antique granary wood floors, premium Italian tile & designer wall coverings create a warm yet refined aesthetic. Smart lighting, power blinds, whole-home audio & integrated security deliver seamless modern living. Designed for both everyday living & elevated
Located in the gated Clearwood community, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath rambler offers 1,566 sq. ft. of single-level living. The open-concept layout provides comfortable living and entertaining space, with a kitchen that flows into the dining and living areas. A heat pump with air conditioning provides year-round comfort. Enjoy outdoor living on the spacious deck overlooking the fully fenced backyard.
Are housing prices getting you down? Not here! Beautiful and contemporary 2009 built Goldenwest Manufactured home in a quiet + all-ages park! Welcome home to Lake Lawrence. The backdrop of Mt Rainier and all the best of a truly PNW community. Large windows that beckon in natural light and a permanent vacant lot next store for ultimate privacy. The primary bedroom with en-suite, including a large
Charming and affordable 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offering a fantastic opportunity for first-time buyers, downsizers, or investors. The open-concept floor plan creates a spacious and inviting atmosphere, with larger-sized bedrooms providing comfort and flexibility. Enjoy your morning coffee or evening relaxation on the welcoming front porch deck. Conveniently located right in town, you'll
Welcome to Mountain Sunrise Community! This spacious 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath home features fresh interior paint, new flooring, a tankless water heater, and numerous upgrades throughout. The popular Douglas floor plan offers an exceptional layout with expansive living spaces, including a large living room, inviting family room, and open kitchen designed for both everyday living and entertaining.
Your Outdoor Adventure Starts Here! Bring Your RVs, Toys, & Friends to this Rare Double Lot in the Gated Lakeside Community of Clearwood, Just a Short Drive from All the Conveniences of Yelm! Whether You're Looking for the Perfect Summer Retreat, a Snowbird Escape, or the Ideal Place to Build a Vacation Cabin or Your Dream Home, this Shy Half Acre Property (2 Lots) is Ready to Enjoy with POWER at
The quest for the perfect home stops at Tustin Apartment Homes. Brimming with attractive amenities, cozy interiors, and dazzling leisure areas, our apartments in Yelm, WA, will make you feel like you belong. An exciting new chapter begins as soon as you take your pick from our one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartments. Life's essential amenities and extra comforts are given from the get-go,
Wyndstone's cozy, residential location in Yelm offers both a sense of seclusion and community connectivity, with various everyday conveniences just a short distance away. From dining and shopping to beautiful woodland parks, and extensive nature preserves, you'll have access to everything you need to enjoy an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Welcome to your new home! Ridgeline Apartments is a brand new construction apartment complex located in the heart of Yelm! Close to schools, restaurants, and shopping centers. All apartment homes come with washer and dryer, and stainless steel fridge, dishwasher, microwave, and stove. Stay cool during the summer with an AC unit located in each unit. Apartment homes feature 9ft ceilings, LVP
**BRAND NEW BUILD** More apartments coming online in the coming months- Add your name to our interest list TODAY!Enjoy a calm and comfortable lifestyle with on-trend finishes and stainless-steel appliances throughout our 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments. Tahoma Terrace is located in the heart of Yelm, WA. Close to shopping and schools. Take advantage of the Washington outdoors
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