If you’re a military family relocating to Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), finding a community that suits your family’s needs is key. As someone who lives here, I’d love to share what makes DuPont, Washington, such a special place to call home. With a small-town feel, family-friendly amenities, and a close-knit atmosphere, here’s my perspective on what DuPont has to offer and what you should know before making it your new home.
1. Prime Location
One of the best things about living in DuPont is its location. When I was on active duty, I really appreciated the short commute to JBLM—just a 15-minute drive—which made balancing work and family life much easier. Situated right off I-5, DuPont provides easy access to Tacoma, Olympia, and Seattle for work, shopping, or weekend adventures.
2. Schools and Daycares in DuPont
DuPont is served by the Steilacoom Historical School District, which is well-regarded in the area. Schools in DuPont include:
- Chloe Clark Elementary School (Grades K-3)
- Pioneer Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Older students typically attend Steilacoom High School in nearby Steilacoom.
For daycare options, DuPont offers trusted facilities like:
Parents looking for more details on schools and daycares can find boundary maps, academic ratings, and reviews on resources like GreatSchools.org or the Steilacoom Historical School District website.
3. Parks, Trails, and Outdoor Activities
DuPont is known for its outdoor amenities, which my family and I enjoy daily:
- Parks and Playgrounds: Some of our favorite spots include PowderWorks Park, where my son loves to play, and Bell Hill Community Park, known for its big slides.
- Trails: I’m a big fan of the Sequalitchew Creek Trail, which leads to a beach, and the scenic trails along Puget Sound. DuPont features over 12 miles of walking and biking trails, perfect for family walks or runs.
For maps of trails and parks, visit the City of DuPont’s Parks and Trails page. You can also find a calendar of local events, such as outdoor movie nights and seasonal festivals, on the city’s event calendar.
4. Housing Options
DuPont offers a variety of housing options to suit different needs:
- Single-Family Homes: Many were built in the early 2000s and feature modern designs. Some back up to greenbelts or are located near parks and playgrounds, making them great for families. My family and I have loved creating a sense of community with our neighbors—many of whom are either active duty or veterans who decided to stay here because they enjoy DuPont.
- Townhouses and Apartments: These options are great for renters or those seeking a smaller footprint. Many include shared amenities and convenient locations within the town.
Most neighborhoods in DuPont have homeowners associations (HOAs) that maintain common areas and uphold community standards. Some condominiums and apartments offer perks like a pool and community spaces. With sidewalks throughout the town, it’s easy to walk to parks, schools, or just enjoy the neighborhood.
5. Local Amenities
While DuPont has a small downtown area with a few restaurants, a Starbucks, and some local businesses, it’s worth noting that it lacks big-town conveniences like a grocery store or pharmacy. Families often make quick trips to nearby towns like Lacey, Lakewood or even University Place for those needs. Despite this, there are still plenty of highlights:
- DuPont Library: My son and I love spending time here, especially during their family-friendly programs.
- Farrelli’s Pizza: This is a favorite spot for my family, especially on Sundays when they offer their military discount.
- Summer Ice Cream Runs: We enjoy grabbing ice cream downtown during the warmer months.
While it’s not the most bustling town, the quiet setting and friendly atmosphere make it a wonderful place to raise a family. Military families are also close to the JBLM commissary and PX.
6. Resources for Military Families
As a community with a large military population, DuPont offers plenty of resources and support for military families. For example:
- Military Discounts: Many local businesses cater to service members with special discounts.
- Relocation Support: Community groups host meetups and events to help newcomers settle in, such as welcome breakfasts and neighborhood tours.
- Educational Support: Programs for military children through the school district help address the unique challenges of frequent moves.
To explore more resources, visit Military OneSource or the City of DuPont website.
7. Outdoor Adventures in the Pacific Northwest
Living in DuPont means you’re surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. My family and I love taking advantage of the trails for walks with our dog or going for a run. With Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and countless hiking trails nearby, it’s easy to get outside and explore. Whether you’re into kayaking, paddle boarding, biking, or just enjoying a peaceful walk, DuPont provides a great base for outdoor enthusiasts.
DuPont is a charming, family-friendly town with a strong sense of community. While it may lack some big-city conveniences, it makes up for it with its excellent location, outdoor amenities, and supportive atmosphere for military families. If you’re considering a move to the JBLM area, take some time to explore what DuPont has to offer—it might just be the right fit for your family.
If you have questions about DuPont or need assistance with your move, I’m here to help. Contact me here to learn more about housing options and life in the JBLM area!
