Is Graham, WA, a Good Place To Live?
Known for its breathtaking views of Mount Rainier National Park, homes with land, and wide open spaces, Graham, WA, is gradually growing in popularity as a desirable place to live for those considering moving to Washington State. This census-designated place offers ample space for homes, combined with small-town charm and convenient access to nearby city amenities.
If you’re already living in Washington State or planning to move there soon, read our blog to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of moving to and residing in Graham, WA. We’ll discuss local amenities and nearby outdoor activities that make life in Graham so sweet.
Where Is Graham, WA?
Located in Pierce County, Graham, WA, is 25 miles southeast of Tacoma and 45 miles south of Seattle. It’s a close-knit community with a rural feel, but it also offers easy access to big-city amenities and conveniences, making it a top choice for those seeking to commute to work and enjoy more space outside the city.
The town is just 15 miles east of Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base, perfectly positioned between the breathtaking Mount Rainier National Park and the stunning Olympic National Park. Graham is also close to charming communities like Orting, Spanaway, Puyallup, and Kapowsin, with easy access to many wonderful local spots, including Pioneer Park in Puyallup and Spanaway Lake in Spanaway.
The Benefits of Living in Graham, WA
Living in Graham offers numerous benefits, from its small-town charm to nearby nature. Read about the advantages of life in Graham below.
The Peaceful Small-Town Atmosphere of Graham
Just on the outskirts of Washington’s major, bustling cities, Graham, WA, offers a peaceful lifestyle for those looking for a relaxed and easygoing environment. Home to over 35,000 residents, Graham is a small town compared to Seattle’s grandeur.
This wonderful community provides a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, all while keeping you close to the vibrant energy of big-city amenities like restaurants, venues, and museums.
Nature and Outdoor Activities in and Around Graham, WA
Graham boasts natural beauty, from the tall forests to the scenic views of Mount Rainier National Park. The area is surrounded by spots perfect for outdoor pursuits like hiking, biking, and camping.
While Mount Rainier National Park is just under an hour southeast, there are other nearby attractions to discover. Graham, WA, is also surrounded by other outdoor adventures, such as:
- Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
- Bradley Lake Park
- Spanaway Park
- Operation Paintball
- Morse Wildlife Preserve
- Old McDebbie’s Farm / Jim’s U-Fish
- Lake Tapps
Graham’s Close-Knit Community
The town of Graham is a close-knit community with friendly faces and warm smiles. It’s a particularly good area for families looking for schools in the Bethel School District, for individuals who want land, or those trying to get away from the busy city for a change of scenery.
Frontier Park, located on Meridian Avenue East halfway between Puyallup and Graham, is a great place to relax with friends and family. This 71-acre park hosts a variety of events, including the Pierce County Fair, Highland Games, equestrian shows, and more!
Possible Challenges of Living in Graham, WA
While the town of Graham offers many great features, such as access to outdoor activities and a family-friendly vibe, there are some drawbacks to living in a small, rural town. These include:
1. Limited Job Opportunities
There aren’t many large businesses within Graham’s city limits, so most job opportunities are at smaller companies or chains. Being close to Seattle and Tacoma makes it easier to explore various jobs in the larger metropolitan area.
2. City Traffic and Commuting
If you’ve decided to work in one of the larger cities, one of the challenging parts will be the commute and the subsequent traffic. With Tacoma just about 20 miles away and Seattle 42 miles away, the traffic shouldn’t be too bad, unlike highways in Los Angeles or streets in New York City.
3. Cost of Living in Graham
The cost of living in Graham presents another challenge. It’s about 35% higher than the national average. Home prices average $472,800, and rent is roughly $2,172. This is mainly because homes for sale often come with a lot of land, houses larger than 2,000 square feet, or plots of land for sale.
4. Limited Amenities in Town
While Graham, WA, offers essentials like groceries, convenience shops, and pet supply stores, you may want to venture outside the city for a broader range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Walmart and Target are just up Meridian Avenue East in Puyallup, so you’re never too far from what you need.
Why You Should Consider Moving to Graham
The town of Graham is a wonderful place to live if you want to be close to nature and in a peaceful setting. Whether you’re buying your first home, preparing for a growing family, or downsizing, Graham is an excellent choice. With stunning views and access to all the best trails Mount Rainier National Park offers, experience Graham’s charm for yourself!
Let Daffodil Storage Help You Make Your Move to Graham Stress-Free
When you need assistance settling into your new home, rely on Daffodil Storage. We have two storage facilities in Puyallup, making it easy for you to drop off extra furniture, offseason clothing, and other non-essentials. Read our storage tips and blog for more details on the self storage process.
Rent a storage unit at 19103 Meridian Avenue Eastor 18820 Meridian East in Puyallup, WA, online today.