Welcome to Bremerton: Where Your Next Chapter Begins
If you’re thinking about moving to Bremerton, Washington, you’re not alone. Families from across the country—especially military families PCSing to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard or Naval Base Kitsap Bangor—are drawn to this waterfront city for its affordability, community spirit, and balance of convenience and calm.
What makes Bremerton special isn’t just the water views or ferry access to Seattle—it’s the feeling of belonging that greets you at every coffee shop, farmers market, and neighborhood park. The pace is slower, the air is salt-kissed, and life feels just a little more grounded.
“People move to Bremerton for work—but they stay for the community.”
Manette — Coastal Charm with Character
If Bremerton had a “Hallmark neighborhood,” it would be Manette. Known for its walkable streets, view homes, and cozy downtown lined with cafés, boutiques, and bakeries, Manette is ideal for families who want both connection and convenience.
Homes here range from $475K–$725K (2025 estimates). You’ll find a mix of Craftsman-style cottages, new builds with modern finishes, and waterfront homes overlooking the Port Washington Narrows. The Manette Bridge connects the area directly to downtown Bremerton, making the ferry commute to Seattle an easy daily rhythm.
Why families love it:
Manette hosts regular community events—from small art walks to summer music nights. Sidewalks bustle with strollers, dogs, and neighbors who actually wave hello.
Key Takeaway: Manette blends old-fashioned neighborhood energy with all the perks of coastal living.
East Bremerton — Suburban Comfort Close to Everything
For buyers seeking value and easy access to schools, shopping, and bases, East Bremerton delivers. Homes here average around $520K, and the neighborhoods are full of split-levels and updated ramblers on generous lots.
East Bremerton is home to major shopping centers like Wheaton Way and East Bremerton Fred Meyer, while still offering quick routes to PSNS and Silverdale. Families love its blend of affordability and convenience—many homes sit within 15 minutes of Bangor Base, schools, and recreation.
“East Bremerton is where military families settle when they want room to grow without breaking the budget.”
Neighborhood Highlights
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Tree-lined side streets and fenced backyards for kids and pets
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Easy access to Illahee State Park and the Rolling Hills Golf Course
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Strong resale value for buyers planning to stay 3–5 years
Key Takeaway: East Bremerton offers comfort, community, and convenience—all within minutes of the base.
Tracyton — Water Views and Quiet Confidence
Tucked between Bremerton and Silverdale, Tracyton is an unincorporated area with a relaxed, rural-coastal vibe. Average home prices hover around $580K–$780K, especially for properties with peek-a-boo water or mountain views. You’ll find everything from mid-century remodels to custom homes with wrap-around decks overlooking Dyes Inlet.
Families love Tracyton for its quiet streets, highly rated schools, and sense of privacy. It’s perfect for those who want a slower pace but still need quick access to Silverdale’s shopping and amenities.
Key Takeaway: Tracyton offers the privacy of the country with the proximity of the city.
“You don’t have to choose between affordability and adventure in Bremerton — you can have both.”
Chico — Nature, Privacy & Easy Access
Nestled just west of Bremerton, Chico is one of those neighborhoods that feels tucked away yet perfectly placed. It’s known for its wooded lots, quiet cul-de-sacs, and close proximity to Chico Creek Salmon Park — a local favorite for fishing, hiking, and picnics.
Average home prices here sit between $650K – $900K depending on acreage and view. Buyers often find craftsman-style homes and ranch properties with generous outdoor space, making it ideal for families who want privacy without losing proximity to Silverdale and Bremerton amenities.
Why locals love it: Chico offers easy access to Highway 3, great schools, and the kind of peace you can’t buy in the city.
“Chico is the place where Friday nights mean stargazing, not traffic.”
Key Takeaway: Chico is a hidden pocket of tranquility for families who want breathing room close to everything.
Illahee — Waterfront Living with a Woodland Soul
Few places capture Kitsap’s beauty quite like Illahee. With its winding roads, beach access, and sweeping views of Port Orchard Bay, this neighborhood attracts families who want a balance of coastal life and forest serenity.
Homes in Illahee typically range from $700K – $1.1 million, depending on water frontage and updates. You’ll find both modern architectural builds and restored mid-century homes nestled among tall evergreens.
Local highlights:
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Illahee State Park, with its beach trails and picnic areas
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Excellent kayaking, crabbing, and paddle-boarding access
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Quick route to East Bremerton shopping and schools
Key Takeaway: Illahee brings together the best of Puget Sound living — nature, community, and luxury that still feels down-to-earth.
Local Resource Box — Life in Bremerton
Schools:
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Bremerton School District (Highly rated elementary programs & STEM initiatives)
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Nearby options: Central Kitsap School District (Silverdale area), private schools like Kitsap Christian Academy
Ferry & Commuting:
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Bremerton–Seattle Fast Ferry: 35 min commute to downtown Seattle
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Auto Ferry: Approx. 60 minutes – perfect for weekend getaways
Parks & Outdoor Favorites:
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Evergreen Rotary Park – Bremerton’s waterfront heart
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Illahee State Park – beach, trails, picnics
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Tracyton Boat Launch – great for kayaking or paddleboards
Finding Your Place in Bremerton
From Manette’s village energy to Chico’s wooded quiet and Illahee’s coastal grace, Bremerton offers neighborhoods as diverse as the families who move here. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a military family PCSing to PSNS, or a Seattle commuter ready for a slower pace, there’s a perfect corner of this community waiting for you.
Learn more about family-friendly communities in Poulsbo here:
https://www.homewithgrimes.com/blog/best-neighborhoods-poulsbo
Explore Kitsap’s natural beauty in:
https://www.homewithgrimes.com/blog/living-near-nature
Thinking of Making the Move?
If you’re ready to start your home search in Bremerton or simply want to learn which neighborhood fits your family’s needs, let’s connect. I work closely with local lenders and know the nuances of Kitsap’s market to help make your move smooth and stress-free.
📞 Call or Text: (360) 860-1031
📧 Email: [email protected]
💬 Or use my contact form: https://www.homewithgrimes.com/contact
Written by Ashley Grimes, REALTOR® with Keller Williams Greater 360, specializing in Kitsap County homesteads, relocations, and family moves.
