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Olympia, the capital of Washington State, is an attractive place to call home, especially when commuting is a key part of your lifestyle. Thanks to its unique blend of scenic beauty, affordability, and accessibility, Olympia is a prime location for professionals who need to travel regularly for work. Nestled within the confines of this city are several neighborhoods, each offering a variety of options that balance lifestyle, location, and livability.
This guide will walk you through some of the best neighborhoods Olympia, WA has to offer to help you narrow down your options.
Olympia’s strategic location at the southern tip of Puget Sound makes it a commuter’s dream. With direct access to Interstate 5, U.S. Route 101, and public transit options like Intercity Transit and Sound Transit connections, getting to nearby cities is relatively easy. Many residents commute to Seattle, Tacoma, Lacey, or Tumwater, and Olympia’s neighborhoods are designed to support that lifestyle.
Here’s a breakdown of the top commuter-friendly neighborhoods in Olympia, WA, based on proximity to major highways, transit access, and overall livability.
West Olympia offers quick access to Highway 101 and I-5, making it ideal for those commuting north toward Tacoma or Seattle. The area is also served by multiple bus routes and park-and-ride facilities.
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Located just south of downtown, South Capitol is minutes from I-5 and offers walkable access to government buildings and downtown employers. It’s perfect for those working in Olympia or commuting short distances.
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Eastside Olympia is close to Pacific Avenue and I-5, offering a direct route to Lacey and Tacoma. It’s also served by Intercity Transit, making public transportation a viable option.
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Technically part of Tumwater, Tumwater Hill borders Olympia and offers fast access to I-5, making it ideal for commuters heading north or south. It’s a quiet, residential area with scenic views.
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Northwest Olympia is close to West Bay Drive and I-5, offering a scenic yet efficient commute. It’s also near the waterfront, which adds a peaceful touch to daily life.
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Located northeast of downtown, Bigelow Highlands is near Boulevard Road and I-5, offering easy access to Lacey and Seattle. It’s a compact neighborhood with a mix of housing styles.
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Nottingham / Briarwood is a more suburban, residential area in Olympia that appeals to commuters who want more space, good schools, and easy access to major roads.
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Olympia’s Intercity Transit system offers reliable bus service throughout the city and into neighboring areas like Lacey and Tumwater.
For longer commutes, Sound Transit and Amtrak provide connections to Seattle and beyond. Many neighborhoods feature park-and-ride lots, making it easy to combine driving with public transit.
When choosing the best neighborhoods Olympia WA has for commuters, consider these factors:
| Proximity to Highways | Easy access to I-5 and Highway 101 is crucial for reducing commute times. |
| Transit Access | Look for neighborhoods served by Intercity Transit or near park-and-ride facilities. |
| Walkability | If you work downtown, walkable neighborhoods like South Capitol can eliminate the need for a car. |
| Lifestyle Fit | Consider schools, parks, shopping, and community vibe when choosing your neighborhood. |
The current housing market in Olympia, WA is as follows (as of October 2025, per RedFin):
What makes a neighborhood commuter-friendly in Olympia?
Easy access to major highways like I-5, proximity to public transit, and short travel times to work hubs such as Seattle, Tacoma, Lacey, and Tumwater.
Which Olympia neighborhoods offer the fastest access to I-5?
West Olympia, Tumwater Hill, and Eastside Olympia are closest to I-5, making them ideal for daily commuters.
Is West Olympia good for commuting to Seattle?
Yes. West Olympia provides direct access to Highway 101 and I-5, making northbound commutes to Seattle and Tacoma efficient.
Are there park-and-ride options in Olympia?
Yes. Intercity Transit operates several park-and-ride lots throughout Olympia, including in West Olympia and near downtown.
Which neighborhoods are best for walking or biking to work?
South Capitol and Downtown Olympia are highly walkable and bike-friendly, especially for those working in government or local offices.
What’s the commute time from Olympia to Seattle?
By car, it typically takes 60–90 minutes depending on traffic. Bus and train options are available but may take longer.
Which neighborhoods are best for families who commute?
Nottingham/Briarwood, Tumwater Hill, and Eastside Olympia offer family-friendly amenities and good school access while remaining commuter-friendly.
Are there neighborhoods with access to bike trails for commuting?
Yes. Olympia has several bike-friendly areas, including South Capitol and Northwest Olympia, with access to trails like the Chehalis Western Trail.
How do I choose the best neighborhood for my commute in Olympia?
Consider your destination, preferred commute method (car, bus, bike), lifestyle needs (schools, parks, shopping), and housing budget. A local real estate agent can help match you with the right area.
What should I do once I’ve chosen the right neighborhood to buy in?
Once you’ve picked the perfect neighborhood in Olympia, it’s time to get your financing lined up. Sammamish Mortgage can help you secure a competitive home loan tailored to your budget, making the buying process smooth and stress-free.
Choosing the best neighborhood in Olympia, WA for commuters depends on your destination, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you’re heading to Seattle daily or working locally, Olympia’s diverse neighborhoods provide options that combine convenience with charm. From historic homes in South Capitol to waterfront views in Northwest Olympia, there’s a perfect spot for every commuter.
Are you ready to apply for a mortgage to buy a home in Olympia, WA? If so, we can help. Sammamish Mortgage is a mortgage company that has been providing mortgage programs to borrowers throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Colorado, and California since 1992. Use our Free Rate Quote Tool or our online mortgage calculator to determine your rate and estimated monthly payments. Contact us today with any questions you have about mortgages. Or, visit our website to get an instant rate quote.
Whether you’re buying a home or ready to refinance, our professionals can help.
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