Cities and Towns in Thurston County, Washington

Founded in 1852, Thurston County is one of 39 counties in the state of Washington. Historically, Thurston County was formed from Lewis County. The city of Olympia is the county seat. With FIPS code of 67, Thurston County has a population of 294,793 and area of 722 square miles (1,870 km²).

List of all cities in Thurston County, WA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Boston Harbor, WA	98501	360/564
Bucoda, WA	98530	360/564
East Olympia, WA	98540	360/564
Evergreen State College, WA	98505	360/564
Firm Brm, WA	98599	360/564
Five Corners, WA	98597	360/564
Gate, WA	98579	360/564
Kellys Korner, WA	98540	360/564
Lacey, WA	98503	360/564
	98506	360/564
	98509	360/564
	98513	360/564
	98516	360/564
Littlerock, WA	98556	360/564
Maytown, WA	98501	360/564
Nisqually, WA	98501	360/564
Offutt Lake, WA	98501	360/564
Oly, WA	98501	360/564
Olympia, WA	98501	360/564
	98502	360/564
	98503	360/564
	98504	360/564
	98505	360/564
	98506	360/564
	98507	360/564
	98508	360/564
	98509	360/564
	98511	360/564
	98512	360/564
	98513	360/564
	98516	360/564
	98599	360/564
Rainier, WA	98576	360/564
Rochester, WA	98579	360/564
Schneiders Prairie, WA	98501	360/564
South Bay, WA	98501	360/564
South Sound, WA	98501	360/564
Tenino, WA	98589	360/564
Thompson Place, WA	98501	360/564
Tumwater, WA	98501	360/564
	98511	360/564
	98512	360/564
Union Mills, WA	98501	360/564
Vail, WA	98576	360/564
Washington State Department, WA	98504	360/564
Yelm, WA	98597	360/564

Major Cities and Towns in Thurston County, Washington

Olympia

Location and History

• Area: 20.0 square miles
• Population: Approximately 55,000
• Zip Codes: 98501, 98502, 98503, 98506, 98507
• Latitude: 47.0379° N
• Longitude: 122.9007° W

Olympia is the capital city of Washington State and the county seat of Thurston County, located at the southern end of Puget Sound. Founded in the mid-19th century, Olympia became an important port and commercial center for the region, primarily due to its access to the water. The city was officially incorporated in 1859, and in 1889, Olympia became the state capital. Its strategic location along the Puget Sound, combined with its role in state government, has shaped Olympia into a vibrant political, cultural, and economic hub. The city boasts a rich history tied to its early settlement, Native American heritage, and the development of the Pacific Northwest.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Olympia is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including The Evergreen State College, a public liberal arts college, and South Puget Sound Community College. The city is served by the Olympia School District, which includes Olympia High School and Capital High School. Landmarks in Olympia include the Washington State Capitol Building, a grand structure housing the legislative and executive branches of the state government. The Washington State History Museum offers exhibits on the state’s history and culture. Percival Landing Park, a popular waterfront park, provides walking trails, picnic areas, and views of Puget Sound. Olympia is also home to the Olympia Farmers Market, a popular destination for local produce and crafts, and the Olympia Woodland Trail, ideal for hiking and nature walks.

Lacey

Location and History

• Area: 13.7 square miles
• Population: Approximately 54,000
• Zip Codes: 98503, 98516
• Latitude: 47.0347° N
• Longitude: 122.8233° W

Lacey is a rapidly growing city located just east of Olympia, Washington, and is part of the greater Olympia metropolitan area. The area was originally settled by European Americans in the mid-19th century, and it became known for its fertile farmland and proximity to the Puget Sound. Lacey was incorporated as a city in 1966 and has since expanded significantly, driven by its proximity to the state capital and its access to major transportation corridors. Lacey’s development has been driven by a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational growth, making it one of the most populous cities in Thurston County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lacey is served by the North Thurston Public Schools District, which includes North Thurston High School, Timberline High School, and River Ridge High School. A notable landmark in Lacey is the Indian Summer Golf & Country Club, which offers scenic views, a challenging course, and recreational facilities. Woodland Creek Community Park provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, including sports fields, walking trails, and a large play area. The Lacey Museum offers exhibits on local history, highlighting the city’s roots as an agricultural community. Additionally, Saint Martin’s University, a private Catholic institution, is located in Lacey, offering higher education opportunities to residents. Lacey’s proximity to Puget Sound and nearby Olympic National Park makes it a popular location for residents seeking both urban amenities and access to nature.

Tumwater

Location and History

• Area: 6.8 square miles
• Population: Approximately 23,000
• Zip Codes: 98501, 98512
• Latitude: 47.0054° N
• Longitude: 122.9030° W

Tumwater is a city located just south of Olympia, Washington, and serves as a key historical and industrial center in Thurston County. The city was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Squaxin Island Tribe, who lived along the Deschutes River. European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, and Tumwater became known for its salmon fishing and timber industries. In 1854, the Olympia Brewery was established in Tumwater, helping to shape the city’s identity as an industrial center. The city’s location along the Deschutes River, combined with its proximity to Olympia, allowed it to grow and become a significant player in the region’s economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Tumwater is served by the Tumwater School District, which includes Tumwater High School, A.G. West Black Hills High School, and several elementary and middle schools. Tumwater is home to several important landmarks, including the Tumwater Falls Park, which offers picturesque views of the Deschutes River and Tumwater Falls, as well as walking trails and picnic areas. The Olympia Brewery, which played a pivotal role in the city’s history, is now a historical landmark and is used for various events and tours. Deschutes River State Park is another popular natural site, providing hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities. Tumwater is also home to The Schmidt House, an architecturally significant residence built in the early 20th century and used for public tours and events.

Yelm

Location and History

• Area: 4.1 square miles
• Population: Approximately 9,000
• Zip Codes: 98597
• Latitude: 46.9430° N
• Longitude: 122.5979° W

Yelm is a city located to the southeast of Olympia, Washington, and is the largest city in southern Thurston County. The area was originally home to the Squaxin Island Tribe and later became a part of the early settlements in the Pacific Northwest. European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, and Yelm grew as a rural community primarily based on agriculture, particularly wheat farming and timber. The city was incorporated in 1913 and has steadily expanded over the years, with rapid growth seen in the 1990s and 2000s. Today, Yelm serves as a suburban community with a focus on residential development, agriculture, and tourism.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Yelm is served by the Yelm Community Schools District, which includes Yelm High School, Yelm Middle School, and several elementary schools. Key landmarks in the city include Yelm City Park, a central recreational area with sports fields, a playground, and space for picnics. The Yelm-Tenino Trail, a multi-use trail, offers residents and visitors the chance to walk, bike, or horseback ride through the scenic countryside. Yelm is also known for its proximity to the Mount Rainier National Park, providing access to hiking, camping, and skiing. The Lewis and Clark State Park, located just outside of Yelm, offers additional outdoor opportunities for hiking, boating, and camping. Additionally, JZ Knight’s Ramtha’s School of Enlightenment is a notable local institution, drawing people from across the country.

Rainier

Location and History

• Area: 1.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,000
• Zip Codes: 98576
• Latitude: 46.7537° N
• Longitude: 122.9544° W

Rainier is a small city located along the southern boundary of Thurston County, near the confluence of the Cowlitz and Columbia Rivers. The area was originally settled by the Cowlitz Tribe and later by European-American settlers. Incorporated in 1908, Rainier developed as a farming and logging town, with industries tied to timber and agriculture. The town’s name comes from the nearby Mount Rainier, one of the most iconic peaks in the Pacific Northwest. Over the years, Rainier has remained a quiet, rural community while benefiting from its proximity to larger cities like Olympia and Longview.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rainier is served by the Rainier School District, which includes Rainier High School, Rainier Middle School, and several elementary schools. Landmarks in the area include the Rainier City Park, a community hub offering walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds. The Cowlitz River offers fishing and boating opportunities, while Rainier’s Historic District provides a glimpse of the town’s past, with several buildings dating back to the early 20th century. The nearby Mount Rainier National Park offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The town also hosts the Rainier Rodeo, an annual event celebrating the region’s agricultural and western heritage.