Overall City Sentiment Score
What’s the vibe like living in Centennial, Colorado? How do locals really feel about calling this Denver suburb home? In 2023, Centennial earns a sentiment score of 78 out of 100, reflecting a generally positive outlook shaped by factors like strong community pride, good schools, ample parks and trails, and a convenient location. However, some residents express concerns about increasing traffic, housing costs, and a desire for more diverse dining and entertainment options.
Social Media Buzz in Centennial
On local Facebook groups and Reddit threads, Centennial residents are talking about the city’s family-friendly amenities, well-maintained neighborhoods, and community events. Positive comments highlight the “small-town feel” and “great schools,” while some criticisms focus on “cookie-cutter subdivisions” and “chain restaurants.”
- “We love the sense of community here. There are so many parks, trails and events for families. It’s a wonderful place to raise kids.” – Sarah K.
- “Centennial is safe and well-kept, but it can feel a bit suburban and generic at times. I wish we had more unique local businesses.” – Mike R.
- “Traffic on Arapahoe Road is getting worse, but otherwise Centennial still has that peaceful, residential vibe. Most folks seem content living here.” – Lisa P.
Local News Tone
Headlines from the Centennial Citizen and other local news outlets strike an optimistic and community-focused tone:
- “Centennial Named One of America’s Best Places to Live”
- “Volunteers Unite to Clean Up Centennial Center Park”
- “Cherry Creek Schools Earn High Marks for Student Achievement”
Coverage of city council meetings, development projects, and local events is generally neutral to positive, reflecting a city that’s growing and thriving while working to address challenges like affordability and transportation.
Review-Based Public Perception
On review platforms like Google and Niche, Centennial earns strong ratings for its public schools, safety, outdoor activities, and family-friendliness. Residents appreciate the well-planned neighborhoods, community events, and convenient access to the Denver Tech Center and light rail.
However, some reviews note a lack of walkability and nightlife compared to Denver proper. As one Yelp reviewer put it: “Centennial is a great place for families and professionals who want a quiet suburban lifestyle. But if you’re looking for city excitement, you’ll need to head downtown.”
Comparison to Nearby Cities
| City | Sentiment Score | Strengths | Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Centennial | 78 | Safe, family-friendly, good schools | Rising costs, traffic, suburban feel |
| Littleton | 80 | Charming downtown, community events | Expensive housing, some congestion |
| Aurora | 65 | Diverse, affordable, good job access | Higher crime, hit-or-miss schools |
What Locals Are Saying
To paint a fuller picture of life in Centennial, here’s what residents from different walks of life have to say:
- “As a young professional, I appreciate being close to the DTC and light rail. Centennial is a bit quiet, but it’s a nice place to come home to.” – Alex, 29
- “We’ve lived here 15 years and raised our kids in Centennial. It’s been wonderful – great schools, friendly neighbors, lots of community spirit.” – Jenna, 45
- “I work remotely and enjoy the peace and safety of Centennial. But I do miss having walkable cafes and shops nearby.” – Kai, 36
- “Centennial has treated us well in retirement. We have easy access to parks, trails, libraries, and healthcare. Our only complaint is the rising cost of living.” – Bill and Linda, 70s
Conclusion: Is Centennial a Happy Place to Live?
Based on local sentiment, Centennial is a contented suburban community that offers a high quality of life for families and professionals. With its safe neighborhoods, strong schools, ample green space, and engaged residents, Centennial fosters a palpable sense of community pride and belonging.
While the city faces some challenges around growth, affordability, and livening up its suburban feel, most locals express satisfaction with the Centennial lifestyle. For those seeking a family-friendly hometown with easy access to Denver’s opportunities, Centennial is a compelling choice.
Of course, everyone’s ideal community is different. To decide if Centennial is right for you, we recommend exploring factors like monthly living costs, lifestyle needs, and housing options. Visiting in person and connecting with locals can also help you get a true feel for the Centennial vibe.