The military is the 2nd largest market with 53,000 full time employees (FTE) in Washington State and the largest for Pierce and Thurston county.  Boeing is number one to the North.  The third largest employer in Pierce County has under 10k FTE.  That is the significance of JBLM.  

 

This survey gives a good example of the demographics of Service Members and their concerns.  

 

Lacey tops the list of places that they live.  Housing is slightly more affordable and it is easier to drive to than going North.   

 

 

If you would like to learn more about other employers in the area see: