Colorado's youngest city — 110K people, Cherry Creek schools, and a quiet suburban identity
Centennial's median home price ranges from $600K–$680K as of 2026, with significant variation by neighborhood: south Centennial addresses in Cherry Creek School District (A, #1 in Colorado) command a premium over north Centennial in Littleton School District. The school district boundary is the most consequential variable in Centennial real estate. With 110,000 residents, it's among the south metro's largest cities, incorporated in 2001 specifically to limit commercial development. Commutes to the DTC are 5–15 minutes, and RTD light rail at Dry Creek, County Line, and Arapahoe stations provides direct downtown access.
Communities in the same region, same county, or a similar price tier as Centennial.
South Centennial is served by Cherry Creek School District, rated A by Niche and ranked #1 in Colorado. Cherry Creek HS (A+) is nationally ranked, and Campus Middle School (A+) is its primary feeder. North Centennial may fall within Littleton School District, also highly rated. The school district boundary is the most important factor in home value — verify enrollment eligibility by address.
Centennial is approximately 12 miles south of downtown Denver via I-25 or I-225. The off-peak commute to downtown is 20–25 minutes, extending to 35–50 minutes during rush hour. Centennial is adjacent to the DTC, with a commute of just 5–15 minutes. RTD light rail stations at Dry Creek, County Line, and Arapahoe are nearby, providing direct service to downtown.
As of 2026, the median home price in Centennial is approximately $600K–$680K. Prices vary significantly by neighborhood — south Centennial addresses in the Cherry Creek School District command a premium over north Centennial addresses in the Littleton district.
Centennial Center Park is an 11-acre hub with an amphitheater and splash pad. Cherry Creek State Park (4,200 acres) is adjacent, offering extensive outdoor activities. The Centennial Link Trail is a multi-use path connecting neighborhoods, and the High Line Canal Trail runs 11 miles through Centennial. DeKoevend Park features sports fields, playgrounds, and disc golf.
Centennial’s cost of living index is approximately 123.7 (national average = 100), or about 24% above the national average, with the Cherry Creek SD zone commanding additional premium. The median household income is $126,224 with a median age of about 42. The effective property tax rate is roughly 0.71% (Arapahoe County). Sales tax is 6.75% combined. Colorado has a flat 4.4% state income tax.
Centennial has 150+ restaurants and diverse options along the Arapahoe corridor. Highlights: • Uncorked Kitchen & Wine Bar — seasonal, locally sourced • Godavari Denver — South Indian cuisine • Taku Sushi • Resolute Brewing and Halfpenny Brewing (3+ breweries/taprooms) • Streets at SouthGlenn — open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment district • H Mart for Asian grocery and specialty items
Centennial residents are within 10 minutes of multiple hospitals, including Sky Ridge Medical Center in Lone Tree and Littleton Adventist Hospital. The city’s central south metro location provides access to a wide range of medical facilities across the DTC corridor.
