As remote work continues to reshape how and where we live, more professionals are reevaluating their surroundings. With the freedom to work from anywhere, the Pacific Northwest has become a magnet for digital nomads, creatives, and tech workers alike.
Seattle remains a hub for innovation, culture, and career opportunities, but with high housing costs and an increasingly fast-paced lifestyle, many remote workers are setting their sights on the best places to live near Seattle.
Let’s dive into why Lakewood is becoming a top contender, and how it stacks up against other neighboring cities.
The Shift to Remote Work
In the not-so-distant past, proximity to the office was everything. Today, that equation has changed dramatically. Remote workers are prioritizing:
- Affordability
- Access to nature
- Reliable internet
- Community atmosphere
- Work-life balance
Seattle, while vibrant and full of opportunity, can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re spending 40+ hours a week behind a screen. That’s why many professionals are searching for a place that allows them to unplug, breathe, and still stay connected to the pulse of the region.
Exploring the Best Places to Live Near Seattle
Seattle’s surrounding areas offer an appealing mix of charm and convenience. Here are a few favorites among remote workers:
Bellevue
Upscale and modern, Bellevue is known for its tech-friendly infrastructure, high-end condos, and excellent schools. It’s a great option for families or those who want an urban lifestyle without living in Seattle proper. But be prepared to pay for it, Bellevue’s housing prices rival Seattle’s.
Redmond
Home to Microsoft’s HQ, Redmond is a natural choice for techies. With lush parks and well-maintained bike paths, it offers a nice blend of city and suburban life. However, traffic and cost of living can be deterrents.
Tacoma
A more affordable alternative to Seattle, Tacoma has an artsy vibe, a growing food scene, and lots of history. It’s a bit more industrial in feel, but recent development has made it more appealing to younger crowds and remote professionals.
Lakewood
And then there’s Lakewood, a city that’s been flying under the radar, but is quickly becoming one of the best places to live near Seattle for remote workers looking for an affordable, laid-back alternative.
Why Lakewood Is Turning Heads
Lakewood is no longer just a quiet suburb tucked away in Pierce County. Here’s why it’s gaining popularity:
Affordability That Makes Sense
Compared to Seattle, housing prices in Lakewood are refreshingly affordable. Whether you’re renting a spacious apartment or looking to buy a family-sized home, your dollar stretches further. That means more space for your home office, a backyard for the kids (or dogs), and the financial freedom to enjoy life.
According to recent housing data, median home prices in Lakewood are nearly half that of Seattle. That savings can be reinvested into better technology, travel, or simply more peace of mind.
A Gateway to Nature
Lakewood is surrounded by natural beauty. With five lakes, including American Lake and Lake Steilacoom, plus close proximity to Mount Rainier and Puget Sound, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. You can hop off a Zoom call and be kayaking, hiking, or enjoying a lakeside walk within minutes.
For remote workers, this connection to nature is more than a luxury, it’s a wellness strategy. Studies show that access to green spaces improves focus, reduces stress, and supports overall well-being.
A Real Sense of Community
Unlike some transient urban neighborhoods, Lakewood has a warm, small-town feel. Local cafes like Brew Coffee Company and farmers markets like the Lakewood Farmers Market bring people together. There’s a growing network of entrepreneurs, artists, and freelancers in the area, making it easier to find your tribe.
As a remote worker, it’s easy to feel isolated. Lakewood provides that rare combination of solitude and social connection.
Reliable Infrastructure for Remote Work
You need more than a scenic view to succeed as a remote worker. Lakewood delivers fast, reliable internet (crucial for video conferencing and cloud-based work), multiple coworking options in nearby Tacoma, and quiet neighborhoods perfect for a home office setup.
Some residents even choose to hybrid-commute into Seattle or Tacoma a couple days per week, thanks to Lakewood’s access to I-5 and the Sounder train system.
Who’s Moving to Lakewood?
Lakewood is attracting a mix of people:
- Tech professionals priced out of Seattle or simply seeking a calmer lifestyle.
- Military families connected to nearby Joint Base Lewis–McChord.
- Artists and freelancers are drawn by the affordability and creative vibe.
- Young families seeking safe neighborhoods and good schools.
- Retirees downsizing from larger cities but still wanting access to culture and nature.
It’s this diversity that’s helping the city grow in dynamic and interesting ways.
A Day in the Life of a Remote Worker in Lakewood
Let’s paint a picture.
You start your morning with coffee from Carr’s Restaurant and Bar or Classic Coffee. Your laptop opens at 8am on your back patio with views of towering evergreens or a nearby lake.
At lunch, you take a stroll through Fort Steilacoom Park, 280 acres of trails, open fields, and historic landmarks. In the afternoon, a quick break for paddleboarding or a run clears your head before tackling your next project.
Dinner might be takeout from Hess Bakery, or a trip to nearby Tacoma for sushi or a craft beer. And when you need a change of scenery, Seattle is just about an hour’s drive or a stress-free Sounder ride away.
It’s not just a lifestyle, it’s a smarter way to live and work.
No Place is Perfect
To keep it real, Lakewood isn’t without challenges. As a growing city, some neighborhoods still struggle with infrastructure and economic disparity. Public transit options, while improving, aren’t as robust as in larger cities. You’ll likely need a car to get the most out of living here.
That said, many of these issues are improving as Lakewood continues to invest in its future.
Tips for Relocating to Lakewood as a Remote Worker
If you’re considering making the move, here are some tips:
Test the Waters
Consider renting for 6-12 months before buying. This gives you time to explore different neighborhoods like Oakbrook, Tillicum, or Lake City before making a long-term decision.
Get Professional Moving Help
Don’t underestimate the stress of relocation, especially if you’re juggling work deadlines. Hiring Lakewood movers who know the area can save you serious time and hassle. Whether it’s handling fragile office equipment or navigating narrow streets, local expertise matters.
We offer a full range of services including residential and commercial moving, packing and unpacking, secure storage, and even international shipping coordination. Our team is dedicated to customer satisfaction, taking pride in handling belongings with care and ensuring every move is efficient and stress-free.
Build Your Remote Support Network
Coworking spaces in nearby Tacoma like Surge South Tacoma or TractionSpace offer networking events and office amenities. Even if you don’t go in daily, being connected helps fight remote isolation.
Set Boundaries for Work-Life Balance
With all the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, it can be tempting to stay in “vacation mode.” Create a routine that balances productivity with relaxation so you can thrive both professionally and personally.
Lakewood’s Promising Future
Lakewood isn’t just a place to crash between Zoom meetings. City leaders are actively investing in:
- Smart development projects
- Sustainable housing initiatives
- Revitalized downtown spaces
- Community arts and events
There’s a sense of momentum here. And while it may not have the buzz of Bellevue or Redmond just yet, that’s exactly what many remote workers are looking for, an affordable, livable city where they can grow alongside the community.
Lakewood and the New Way of Working
Remote work is more than a trend, it’s a paradigm shift. It’s redefining what we value in a place to live. For many, Lakewood offers the sweet spot: close enough to Seattle to stay connected, but far enough to truly unwind.
If you’re seeking one of the best places to live near Seattle as a remote professional, don’t overlook Lakewood. It may just surprise you with its blend of serenity, affordability, and potential.
And when you’re ready to make your move, partnering with experienced Lakewood movers can make the transition smooth, stress-free, and even exciting.
