Living in Centerville, Ohio
Your Complete Community Guide
Everything you need to know about one of the Dayton area's most desirable suburbs. From top-rated schools and historic neighborhoods to parks, dining, and the real estate market. Written by a local expert with over 20 years of experience helping families call Centerville home.
Centerville, Ohio sits in Montgomery County, just south of Dayton. It is one of the most established and respected suburbs in the Miami Valley, offering a rare combination of top-rated schools, historic character, and a strong community identity. And it is a place where families have been putting down roots for generations.
As a Dayton native and a Realtor serving the Centerville area for more than 20 years, I have watched this community maintain its reputation as one of the best places to live in southwest Ohio. The schools consistently rank among the top in the state, the neighborhoods are well established with mature trees and character, and the community stays actively connected through events, recreation, and a shared pride in the area. Whether you are relocating for work at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, moving up to a home in a top school district, or downsizing to a community that offers both convenience and charm, Centerville deserves a close look. This guide covers everything you need to know to decide if it is right for you.
Centrally located in
the Miami Valley.
Centerville sits just south of Dayton along the I-675 corridor, giving residents easy access to the entire Dayton metro area. Its location is one of its strongest assets. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is roughly 25 minutes north via I-675, and downtown Dayton is a 15-20 minute drive. For longer trips, Cincinnati is about an hour south, and Columbus is about 75 minutes northeast.
The South Main Street (Route 48) corridor runs through the heart of Centerville, connecting directly to Dayton to the north and Springboro to the south. I-675 provides quick access to the entire region, and I-75 is about 10 minutes west.
Popular with WPAFB Families
Centerville is a popular choice for WPAFB families looking for established neighborhoods and top schools. Planning a military move? Check our Military Relocation Guide for the full breakdown.
One of Ohio's top-ranked
school districts.
The Centerville City School District is widely recognized as one of the best public school systems in Ohio. Serving more than 8,000 students across multiple campuses, the district is the primary reason many families choose Centerville over surrounding communities. Niche rates the district A+ overall, ranks it #1 in the Dayton area and Montgomery County, and has it at #20 among Ohio school districts (2026 rankings). Centerville High School ranks #27 among Ohio public high schools for 2027, up from #30.
- Primary Schools (PreK-1): Primary Village North, Primary Village South
- Elementary Schools (2-5): Cline, Driscoll, John Hole, Normandy, Stingley, and Weller Elementary
- Middle Schools (6-8): Magsig Middle School, Tower Heights Middle School (#48 in Ohio), Watts Middle School
- High School (9-12): Centerville High School — ranked #27 in Ohio by Niche (2027), rated A overall
Normandy Elementary
Normandy Elementary receives an "A" overall grade from Niche and ranks #148 among Ohio public elementary schools. Driscoll Elementary also earns high marks from Niche.
Private School Options
Several private and parochial schools serve the Centerville area for families seeking faith-based or alternative education options:
- Incarnation Catholic School (PK-8, Centerville)
- Immaculate Conception School (PK-8, Dayton)
- Spring Valley Academy (K-8, Centerville)
- Dayton Christian School (PK-12, Miamisburg)
- The CinDay Academy (PreK-12, Springboro)
- Alexandria Montessori School (K-5, Centerville)
- Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School (Dayton)
- Carroll High School (Dayton)
- Archbishop Alter High School (Kettering)
Whether public or private, Centerville-area families have access to some of the best educational options in southwest Ohio. The reputation of Centerville City Schools is a major factor in the area's property values and desirability.
Quality of life with a
lower cost than the national average.
Centerville offers a high quality of life at a cost that sits right around the national average. Most cost-of-living indexes score the city between 98 and 101, roughly at or slightly below the U.S. average (and a bit above Ohio's statewide average), which gives families solid purchasing power compared with other parts of the country.
Important: City Income Tax
Unlike Beavercreek, Centerville does have a city income tax of 2.25%. This is a key difference buyers should be aware of when comparing communities. Residents receive a 2.25% tax credit for wages taxed in another city. For a household earning $100,000 per year, this means roughly $2,250 in annual city income tax. While this is a consideration, the excellent schools, amenities, and property values often offset the difference for most buyers.
Recent market data puts Centerville's median sale price around $348,000-$353,000: Redfin reports a median sale price of $348,000 over the last three months (average sale price $353,000), while Movoto's median sold price for September 2026 is about $350,000. Zillow's average home value is near $390,000, up about 3.3% year over year, and Redfin shows the median sale price up roughly 13% year over year. Single-family homes range from the low $200,000s for condos and townhomes to over $800,000 in premier neighborhoods like Washington Trace.
Montgomery County has a median effective property tax rate of approximately 1.85%. Combined with the city income tax, the overall tax burden is higher than neighboring Beavercreek, but the value of the school district and community amenities makes this trade-off worthwhile for many families.
Centerville's housing stock is more established than some neighboring communities. Buyers can choose from historic properties in the Uptown District, mid-century ranches and colonials in neighborhoods like Yankee Trace, and newer luxury homes in communities like Washington Trace and Winding Creek.
Median household income in Centerville is approximately $85,500 per year (2024 ACS), and about 47% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The homeownership rate is 67%, reflecting a stable, invested community.
Find your right fit in
Centerville.
Yankee Trace / Cheltenham
One of Centerville's most popular and sought-after neighborhoods, Yankee Trace offers an exceptional quality of life with a true sense of community. The neighborhood features beautiful well-maintained homes on tree-lined streets, a community pool and tennis courts, scenic walking trails, and quiet cul-de-sacs that create a safe, family-friendly atmosphere. Residents enjoy close proximity to The Golf Club at Yankee Trace, parks, shopping, and the bike trail system. The combination of amenities, central location, and strong community character makes it the top choice for families relocating to Centerville.
Best for: Families who want a vibrant, amenity-rich neighborhood with a strong sense of community and the best location in Centerville.
Washington Trace
A premier luxury neighborhood on the south side of Centerville. This 327-acre community features over 510 homes on winding streets with mature trees, large lots, and a private swim/tennis club. One of the most sought-after addresses in the Dayton area.
Best for: Buyers seeking a prestigious, established community with larger lots and amenities.
Winding Creek
A gated community off Social Row Road with scenic ponds, walking trails, and thoughtfully designed green spaces. Homes are well-maintained with a mix of traditional and contemporary styles. Quiet, private, and family-friendly.
Best for: Families and professionals who want a secure, amenity-rich neighborhood.
Pleasant Hill
A sought-after neighborhood featuring large lots, mature trees, and well-maintained homes with generous square footage. The rolling streets and wooded lots give it a quiet, private feel while still being close to everything.
Best for: Families wanting space, privacy, and a premium location.
South Main Street / Uptown District
The historic heart of Centerville, this area runs along South Main Street and features Ohio's largest collection of early stone buildings dating back to the 1800s. Nearly 100 local businesses, restaurants, and shops line the corridor. Homes range from historic properties to well-maintained mid-century houses.
Best for: Buyers who want walkability, historic character, and a true downtown feel.
Centerville has approximately 45 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character. From the historic Uptown District along South Main Street to established mid-century communities and newer luxury developments, there is a neighborhood for every lifestyle. I know every street and subdivision, and I can help you find the neighborhood that matches your priorities.
New & Upcoming Development
New construction is active in and around Centerville. Parkside Preserve, a 272-unit multi-family community by CRG Residential at the corner of Yankee Street and Spring Valley Pike, broke ground in August 2025 and is expected to open in 2026. M/I Homes' Sorrento community is adding single-family homes within the Centerville City Schools attendance zone, with new homes listed from roughly $478,000, and Savannah Place at Yankee Trace (Charles Simms Development) continues to add attached patio homes from about $495,000. Vita Modern Homes' Skyline Townhomes are under way near downtown Centerville. For buyers who want brand-new construction in a top school district, these projects are worth tracking.
Over 1,000 acres of
parks and green space.
Centerville is a fantastic community for outdoor enthusiasts. The Centerville-Washington Park District (CWPD) operates eight community parks, 11 nature parks, and 32 neighborhood parks spanning more than 1,000 acres. Combined with the Five Rivers MetroParks system, residents have access to an incredible variety of outdoor recreation.
Stubbs Park
A 60-acre community park on Spring Valley Road featuring a community amphitheater, Veterans Memorial Plaza, walking trails, playground equipment, inline skating rink, a cricket pitch, and an 18-hole disc golf course. Home to the Summer Concert Series.
Hills & Dales MetroPark
A 63-acre natural retreat designed by the famed Olmsted Brothers (who also designed New York's Central Park). Features rolling hills, woods, wetlands, an Adirondack-style shelter, boardwalk, picnic areas, and play areas. A true gem in the Five Rivers MetroParks system.
Bill Yeck Park
A Centerville-Washington Park District nature park with hiking trails through wooded areas and meadows. A quiet escape for nature lovers just minutes from the city center.
Oak Grove Park
Community park with playground equipment, open green space, picnic shelters, and walking paths. Hosts the annual BIG Backyard Party event.
Grant Park
Neighborhood nature park with walking trails, native plantings, and a peaceful setting for birdwatching and quiet reflection.
Activity Center Park
Home to the Centerville-Washington Park District's recreation center, sports fields, and community gathering spaces.
More Outdoor Highlights
- Little Miami Scenic Trail
The Little Miami Scenic Trail runs through the Centerville area, connecting to a 78-mile paved trail system that stretches from near Springfield to the Little Miami River. Popular for biking, running, and walking.
- The Golf Club at Yankee Trace
A premier championship golf facility with 27 holes, a clubhouse, and dining. Centerville's premier golf destination for both members and public play.
- Cox Arboretum MetroPark
Located on the Centerville border, this 189-acre Five Rivers MetroPark features stunning gardens, a butterfly house, tree canopy walk, and miles of trails.
- Holes Creek Park
A nature park with walking trails, boardwalks, and wetlands observation areas. Great for birdwatching and nature photography.
- Centerville-Washington Recreation Center
Located at Activity Center Park, offering fitness programs, sports leagues, and community activities for all ages.
Excellent shopping and
a diverse dining scene.
Centerville is a retail and dining destination in its own right. The Route 725 corridor is lined with shopping centers, restaurants, and services, and the Uptown District along South Main Street offers a charming historic downtown experience with local businesses and eateries.
Dayton Mall — the region's largest enclosed mall with 120+ stores, including Macy's, JCPenney, Dick's Sporting Goods, and a food court. Located just off I-675 at the Centerville/Miamisburg line.
Cross Pointe Shopping Center — major retail hub anchored by Target, Kroger, and other national retailers along the Route 725 corridor.
South Towne Centre — shopping center with a variety of retail stores, services, and dining options on the south end of Centerville.
The Cornerstone of Centerville, the I-675 and Wilmington Pike mixed-use development anchored by Costco and Cabela's, reached full build-out in 2026 with the completion of its final retail strip center. The planned South side phase was approved in 2025 for restaurants, hotels, and additional retail.
The Chop House Centerville — upscale steakhouse known for exceptional service and prime cuts. A go-to for special occasions and business dinners.
Agave & Rye — modern Mexican restaurant and bar with creative tacos, craft cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. A local favorite.
Kabuki Restaurant & Sushi Bar — highly rated Japanese restaurant serving fresh sushi, hibachi, and traditional dishes. Rated 4.6 stars.
Archers Tavern Centerville — neighborhood sports bar and grill with burgers, wings, and a welcoming atmosphere. Great for game days and casual dining.
Doubleday's Grill & Tavern — classic American pub fare with a full bar, known for their fish fry and friendly service.
Mudlick Tap House relocated from downtown Dayton to a newly built location at 110 W. Franklin St. in Uptown Centerville, with a soft opening in July 2025. Pub fare with a whiskey-history theme.
Currito opened its first Dayton-area location in early 2026 at 1024 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, serving fast-casual burrito bowls, wraps, and salads.
Nelly's on South Main Street serves Bolivian-inspired comfort food, from salteñas to sandwiches and grilled plates, plus coffee. Highly rated with a loyal local following.
City Barbeque in Uptown Centerville is a regional favorite for smoked brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, with generous sides and family-sized takeout.
Ditto Bar opened in Uptown Centerville in November 2025 in the former Crabshire's Tavern space, bringing craft cocktails and a refreshed neighborhood bar experience.
Kroger, Meijer, ALDI, Fresh Thyme — all conveniently located within a few minutes of most neighborhoods.
Year-round events,
family fun, and more.
There is always something happening in Centerville. From the massive Americana Festival on July 4th to free summer concerts at Stubbs Park, the community calendar is packed with events that bring neighbors together.
Top Area Attractions
The world's largest military aviation museum, located on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Free admission. A must-visit for all ages, about 20 minutes north.
Community theater in the heart of Centerville, offering classic plays and performances throughout the year.
Historic sites showcasing Centerville's local history from the 1800s to 1930s. Located in the Uptown area.
Family-friendly indoor trampoline park on the south side of Centerville.
Annual Events & Festivals
- Americana Festival — Ohio's largest single-day Independence Day celebration, held July 4th in Centerville's Stubbs Park. Features a 5K run, parade, arts & crafts fair with 300+ vendors, live entertainment, classic car show, food vendors, and one of the region's best fireworks displays. Attracts over 70,000 visitors annually.
- Summer Concert Series at Stubbs Park Amphitheater — free outdoor concerts throughout the summer months featuring a variety of musical genres.
- Centerville Farmers Market — seasonal market featuring local produce, artisan goods, and community connections.
- Fall Fest — community celebration with seasonal activities, food, and family fun.
- Mayor's Tree Lighting Ceremony — annual holiday tradition that kicks off the season in downtown Centerville.
- BIG Backyard Party — hands-on activity day at Oak Grove Park with nature-based activities for families.
- Uptown First Fridays: a monthly evening series in Uptown Centerville launched in 2026, with live music, dining specials, and activities that bring the historic district to life.
A stable market with
strong long-term value.
The Centerville housing market is characterized by stability and steady appreciation. Unlike some newer communities, Centerville's housing stock is more established, with many homes built between the 1960s and 1990s, plus pockets of newer construction in neighborhoods like Washington Trace and Winding Creek. Market data for fall 2026 shows the median sale price around $348,000 (Redfin) to $350,000 (Movoto), with Zillow's average home value near $390,000, up about 3.3% year over year. Redfin reports the median sale price up roughly 13% year over year and describes the market as very competitive. Days on market have lengthened to about 25 from roughly 18 a year earlier, so homes still sell quickly in desirable neighborhoods, just with a touch more time for buyers to decide than during the post-2020 surge.
Types of Homes Available
- Historic homes — Centerville's Uptown District features some of Ohio's oldest stone buildings, converted into homes and businesses. Unique character properties are available in this area.
- Mid-century ranches and colonials — the most common style in established neighborhoods like Yankee Trace and Cheltenham. Typically 1,500 to 3,000 sq ft on generous lots.
- Townhomes and condominiums — entry-level and low-maintenance options starting around $200,000, popular with downsizers and first-time buyers.
- Luxury custom homes — in neighborhoods like Washington Trace and Winding Creek, with homes from $400,000 to over $800,000 on larger lots with premium finishes.
Market Insight
Centerville's housing stock is more established than some neighboring communities, which means buyers should be prepared for homes that may have original systems or features from the 1970s-1990s. That said, well-maintained homes in desirable neighborhoods hold their value exceptionally well. The school district is the primary driver of demand, and homes in the Centerville City Schools attendance zone consistently command a premium over comparable homes in surrounding areas. I always advise buyers to factor in the age of major systems (roof, HVAC, windows) when evaluating a property.
An established, family-oriented
suburban community.
Centerville is a mature, family-oriented community. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates the population at approximately 25,200 residents as of July 1, 2025, up about 4% since the 2020 census. The city has a more established feel than some of the faster-growing suburbs, with mature tree canopies, well-kept homes, and a strong sense of community identity.
The community profile tells the story of a well-educated, stable suburb with a strong family focus. The racial composition is approximately 82% White, 6% Black, 2% Asian, 6% Hispanic/Latino, and 4% identifying with two or more races. The homeownership rate is 67%, and the poverty rate sits around 8.4%.
Centerville consistently ranks as one of the safest communities in Montgomery County, with crime rates well below both state and national averages. The Centerville Police Department is highly regarded for its community policing approach.
Centerville offers a classic suburban feel with deep roots. The community is actively involved in schools, local events, and civic organizations. The Washington Township and Centerville governments work closely together to maintain high-quality services and amenities.
Much of Centerville's identity revolves around the school district. The Elks Stadium (home of Centerville High School football), the performing arts programs, and the strong community support for education are central to the city's character. Many families choose Centerville specifically for the schools.
Practical advice for
moving to Centerville.
Over the years, I have answered the same practical questions from nearly every buyer considering a move to Centerville. Here is the information you actually need before making a decision.
Electricity is delivered by AES Ohio, but Centerville participates in the Miami Valley Communications Council electric aggregation program, which gives residents the option of a fixed supply rate. Montgomery County Environmental Services raised water and sewer rates 5% at the start of 2026, with similar annual increases planned through 2030 to fund infrastructure improvements.
City Income Tax: 2.25%
Centerville has a 2.25% municipal income tax, which has been in effect since January 2017. Residents receive a 2.25% tax credit for wages taxed in another city. This is a meaningful difference from neighboring communities like Beavercreek (which has no city income tax), so factor this into your budget when comparing areas.
Internet & Connectivity
Centerville is well served by multiple internet providers. AT&T Fiber is available in many neighborhoods with speeds up to 5 Gbps. altafiber (formerly Cincinnati Bell) and Metronet Fiber also serve the area. Spectrum cable is available as well. For most homes, fiber or high-speed cable is accessible.
Trash & Recycling
The City of Centerville provides residential trash and recycling collection through Rumpke. Service schedules vary by neighborhood. Bulk item pickup and yard waste collection are also available on a scheduled basis.
Floodplain Awareness
Centerville follows FEMA flood zone regulations. Certain areas near Holes Creek and other waterways are within designated floodplains. Your lender will determine if flood insurance is required based on the property's location. I always advise buyers to review flood zone maps during their due diligence.
Building Permits & Inspections
The City of Centerville and Montgomery County issue building permits depending on the property location. If you are planning renovations, additions, or new construction, work with a contractor familiar with local permitting requirements. Centerville's building department is known for being thorough and helpful.
Home Inspection Considerations
Centerville's housing stock is more established on average than some neighboring communities. Many homes were built in the 1960s-1990s, so buyers should pay close attention to the age of major systems (roof, HVAC, electrical, plumbing). I always recommend a thorough home inspection and can connect you with trusted local inspectors who know the area's construction styles well.
Written by Jason White — your local Centerville expert.
I have been helping families buy and sell homes in the Centerville area for over 20 years. As a Dayton native and graduate of the University of Dayton (BS in Education) and Wright State University (MBA), I understand this community intimately.
My approach is simple: I advise based on experience and data, not pressure. Whether you are buying your first home, relocating to the Dayton area, selling a property, or handling an estate sale, I provide clear guidance and a strategy that works for your situation.
I would be honored to help you find your place in Centerville.
Thinking about making
Centerville your home?
I have been helping families buy and sell in this community for over 20 years, and I would love to help you find the perfect place. Whether you are ready to start looking or just exploring your options, let us talk.