Centennial
Colorado's youngest city — 110K people, Cherry Creek schools, and a quiet suburban identity
Why People Move Here
Centennial is Colorado's youngest city (incorporated 2001) and one of its largest at ~110K. It was created specifically to preserve suburban quality while controlling development — no downtown, no high-rises, just strong schools, quiet neighborhoods, and DTC access. Cherry Creek SD (#1 in CO) covers the south half, making those addresses among the most sought-after in the metro.
Key Statistics
Data sourced from census records, school district reports, and local transit authorities.
Commute Times
School Districts
Cherry Creek School District
A#1 Best School District in Colorado (Niche 2026)
- Cherry Creek HS — A+, flagship, top-ranked nationally
- Arapahoe HS — A, strong academics and athletics
- Campus Middle School — A+, feeder to Cherry Creek HS
FAQ — Centennial
What are the school ratings in 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.
How long is the commute from Centennial to Denver?
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.
What is the median home price in Centennial?
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.
What outdoor recreation is available in Centennial?
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.
What is the cost of living in Centennial?
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.
What dining and shopping options are in Centennial?
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
What healthcare facilities are near Centennial?
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.
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