Peaceful Island Living

Fox Island is a serene island sanctuary just minutes from Gig Harbor, offering stunning panoramic views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, the island attracts those seeking a balance between tranquility and accessibility. A close-knit waterfront community, Fox Island features an array of luxury estates, charming beach cottages, and secluded forested properties, making it a sought-after destination for those who value privacy and scenic surroundings.

The island’s relaxed lifestyle provides a retreat from the hustle and bustle while remaining conveniently connected to urban amenities via the Fox Island Bridge. Though Fox Island offers a quiet retreat, essential services and modern conveniences are just a short drive away in Gig Harbor, which boasts boutique shopping, a variety of grocery stores, fine dining, and major retailers. The island’s proximity to Tacoma and Seattle makes it ideal for those who want to enjoy secluded island living while remaining well-connected to urban amenities and travel hubs.

Lifestyle & Atmosphere

Waterfront Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Whether you love being on the water or enjoying the view, Fox Island offers endless opportunities to connect with nature. Kayak through the calm waters of Echo Bay, set off on a fishing expedition, or explore the island’s hidden beaches. The Fox Island Sand Spit provides the perfect spot for beachcombing, while Bella Bella Beach is a favorite for picnicking and paddleboarding. Outdoor lovers will find a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

A Close-Knit Island Community

Life on Fox Island is centered around strong community ties and a welcoming atmosphere. From neighborhood potlucks at the Nichols Community Center to social events at the Fox Island Yacht Club, residents come together to celebrate island living. Annual traditions like the Fox Island Garage Sale foster camaraderie, while volunteer initiatives help preserve the island’s beauty. It’s a place where neighbors know each other and share a love for the island.

Secluded Yet Convenient

Fox Island offers both seclusion and convenience. While the island remains a peaceful retreat, residents enjoy local spots like Zog’s for drinks and casual dining, as well as a small market for essentials. For more options, Gig Harbor is just a short drive away, providing specialty shopping, diverse dining, and essential services. Whether grabbing groceries, dining out, or exploring unique shops, everything is within reach while preserving the island’s quiet charm.

Access to Puget Sound Region

Though Fox Island feels like a world away, it remains well-connected to the Puget Sound area. Tacoma is just a 20-minute drive, offering cultural attractions and entertainment, while Seattle is easily accessible for work or leisure. Travelers enjoy quick access to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Seatac), making getaways effortless. With major highways and ferry terminals nearby, Fox Island offers both secluded island living and urban convenience.

Fox Island's Fishing Heritage

Fox Island has a rich history rooted in fishing and boat-building, with its maritime culture deeply connected to Puget Sound. Early settlers relied on the island’s abundant waters for commercial and subsistence fishing, and boat-building became an integral part of the local economy. Over time, Fox Island evolved into a community that values both its past and its natural environment.

The Fox Island Historical Society Museum serves as a gateway to the island’s heritage, preserving artifacts, photographs, and stories of the early pioneers who shaped the region. Visitors can explore exhibits that detail the island’s transformation from a fishing hub to a residential retreat.

Today, Fox Island remains committed to marine conservation, with local organizations and residents working to protect the surrounding waters and wildlife. Initiatives focus on shoreline preservation, sustainable fishing practices, and maintaining the health of Puget Sound’s delicate ecosystem, ensuring that the island’s natural beauty remains intact for generations to come.

map of Fox island

Fox Island is a picturesque island in Puget Sound, located just southwest of Gig Harbor and connected by the Fox Island Bridge (the red dotted line on the map).

Real Estate Overview

Fox Island is ideal for those seeking waterfront privacy, space, and natural beauty while remaining close to city conveniences. Home prices range from $600,000 to $5M+ with a median home price around $1.2M.

Property Types

This location offers a diverse range of real estate options, from luxurious waterfront estates with private docks and sweeping Puget Sound views to cozy cottages and secluded homes nestled in the island’s lush forests. Many properties feature expansive outdoor spaces, private beach access, and breathtaking vistas of Mount Rainier and the Narrows Bridge. Fox Island provides a rare blend of privacy, natural beauty, and proximity to city conveniences.

Market Trends

Fox Island’s exclusivity and waterfront appeal make it a sought-after location. The island’s strong demand, particularly for waterfront and view properties, keeps the market competitive. While prices trend higher than surrounding areas, Fox Island’s unique blend of privacy, natural beauty, and accessibility makes it a prime choice for discerning buyers.

Neighborhoods In Fox Island

Fox Island Estates

This area of the island has larger waterfront properties with docks, private beaches, and stunning views of Puget Sound. Many of these homes offer expansive outdoor spaces, perfect for enjoying the serene island lifestyle and breathtaking sunsets.

Echo Bay

A peaceful area near the popular boat launch, Echo Bay is known for its strong sense of community and picturesque shoreline. Many homes offer waterfront views and private beach access, making it a great choice for those who enjoy boating and paddleboarding.

Northwest Fox Island

This forested area offers spacious homes with large wooded lots, creating a secluded retreat-like atmosphere. While providing privacy, it remains conveniently close to the Fox Island Bridge for quick access to Gig Harbor’s amenities.

East Fox Island

Perched on higher elevations, this area offers some of the island’s best water and mountain views (Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Narrows Bridge). Many homes feature large windows and decks to take full advantage of the scenery, creating a peaceful retreat.

Live, Play & Explore

Dining

Recreation

Events

Shopping

Schools & Education

Gig Harbor offers access to some of the top-rated schools in the Puget Sound area, making it an excellent choice for families seeking both luxury living and exceptional education.

PUblic Education - Peninsula School District

Fox Island is part of the Peninsula School District, known for its strong academic programs.
The Peninsula School District (PSD) The Peninsula School District (PSD) is widely recognized for its dedication to academic achievement and student growth. Focused on equipping students with the skills needed for future success, PSD serves the Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula areas with a network of three high schools, four middle schools, and ten elementary schools. The district fosters a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes innovation, high academic standards, and inclusivity, ensuring every student is prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world.

private education options

Fox Island families seeking private school options have several choices in nearby Gig Harbor, offering diverse educational experiences. Lighthouse Christian School provides a faith-based K-8 curriculum, while Gig Harbor Academy emphasizes hands-on, independent learning for preschool through fifth grade. Harbor Montessori School serves students from infancy through eighth grade, fostering individualized, experiential education. St. Nicholas Catholic School integrates faith and academics for preschool through eighth grade, and Hosanna Christian School offers a Christian-focused curriculum. For even more options, Tacoma features a variety of private schools within commuting distance.

higher education opportunities

For Fox Island students looking to continue their education beyond high school, Gig Harbor offers convenient access to Tacoma Community College (TCC), which operates a satellite campus in Gig Harbor and a main campus in Fircrest, providing associate degrees and certification programs. Those seeking four-year degrees can choose from nearby universities such as the University of Puget Sound (UPS), Pacific Lutheran University (PLU), and University of Washington Tacoma (UWT), which offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Additionally, career-focused institutions like the Milgard School of Business, Northwest College of the Arts, Bates Technical College, and Clover Park Technical College provide specialized training and professional development opportunities in various fields.

Demographics

Gender & Age

Source: Census Reporter
The population is composed of about 50%/50% female to male residents. The median age in Gig Harbor is 50.5 years.

Population

Source: Census Reporter
The population of Fox Island is approximately 3,365 people.

Education

Source: Niche.com
Approximately 58% of residents aged 25 and over hold a bachelor's degree or higher.

Race & Ethnicity

Source: Niche.com
The population is predominantly White (91%), with smaller percentages of residents identifying as two or more races (3%), Hispanic (3%), Asian (2%), African American (0%), American Indian or Alaska Native (0%), and other races (0%).

Median Income

Source: Niche.com
$172,917

Political Affiliation

Source: Niche.com
Fox Island is part of Washington's 6th congressional district, which leans Democratic. However, within the local context, Fox Island tends to have more conservative voters compared to nearby areas.

Let’s Find Your Dream Home on Fox Island

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