Thinking About Moving to Centennial, CO

📍 Centennial, CO at a Glance

• Population: 108,418
• Location: 15 miles south of downtown Denver in Arapahoe County
• Incorporated: 2001
• Known For: Top-rated schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and extensive trail system

🗳️ Politics & Civic Life

Centennial leans moderate with a slight conservative tilt, reflecting its suburban character. The city council operates on a non-partisan basis, focusing on practical governance and community services. Residents are highly engaged in local affairs, with strong participation in city planning meetings and community events.

🚓 Crime & Safety

Centennial consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Colorado, with crime rates well below state and national averages. The Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office provides dedicated law enforcement services, and the community’s active neighborhood watch programs contribute to the overall sense of security.

🍽️ Dining & Entertainment

The dining scene offers diverse options from casual to upscale. Popular spots include Viewhouse Centennial for elevated pub fare with mountain views, Jing Restaurant for authentic Asian cuisine, and The French Press for weekend brunch. The Streets at SouthGlenn provides shopping, dining, and entertainment in an outdoor mall setting.

🏛️ Local Government

Centennial operates under a council-manager form of government with a mayor and six council members elected at-large. The city prides itself on efficient services and fiscal responsibility, maintaining low tax rates while providing excellent municipal services.

🚍 Transportation

While primarily car-dependent, Centennial offers several transportation options. The RTD light rail’s E, F, and R lines connect residents to downtown Denver. Major highways including I-25, C-470, and E-470 provide easy access throughout the metro area. The city also features an extensive network of bike paths and trails.

🏘️ Housing & Real Estate

The housing market features predominantly single-family homes built from the 1970s onward, with many newer developments. Home prices typically range from $500,000 to $800,000, with luxury properties exceeding $1 million. The area offers excellent value compared to closer-in Denver suburbs while maintaining high property values.

🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life

Centennial boasts over 2,000 acres of open space and parks, including the popular Centennial Center Park with its amphitheater and playground. The High Line Canal Trail runs through the city, providing 71 miles of scenic walking and biking paths. DeKoevend Park and Piney Creek Trail offer additional recreational opportunities.

💼 Job Market

With a median household income of $107,000, Centennial residents enjoy strong economic opportunities. Major employers include Comcast, United Launch Alliance, and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Many residents commute to the Denver Tech Center or downtown Denver, both easily accessible via light rail or highway.

🧑‍🏫 Education

Centennial is served by two highly-rated school districts: Cherry Creek and Littleton Public Schools. Notable schools include Cherokee Trail High School, Arapahoe High School, and Campus Middle School. Private options include Denver Academy and several Montessori schools. The area also provides easy access to higher education institutions.

🌞 Climate & Weather

Centennial enjoys Colorado’s famous 300+ days of sunshine annually. The semi-arid climate features four distinct seasons with mild winters (average high of 45°F) and warm summers (average high of 85°F). Snow typically melts quickly, and the low humidity makes temperature extremes more comfortable.

💬 Community Sentiment

Residents consistently praise Centennial’s family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and safe neighborhoods. The community values its small-town feel despite being part of a major metropolitan area. Common concerns include increasing traffic and the need to preserve open spaces as development continues.

✨ Why People Are Moving to Centennial

Families and professionals are drawn to Centennial for its unbeatable combination of top-tier schools, safe neighborhoods, and convenient access to both urban amenities and outdoor recreation. The city’s commitment to maintaining green spaces, coupled with its strong sense of community and excellent quality of life, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking the best of suburban living in the Denver metro area.