Discover Centerville, Ohio: Your Complete Guide to Dayton's Premier Suburb
Ari Feustel
Discover Centerville, Ohio: Your Complete Guide to Dayton's Premier Suburb
There's something special about Centerville, Ohio—maybe it's the tree-lined streets, the local restaurants, or that feeling of being tucked away while still close to everything. Whatever it is, people fall in love with this place fast.
Centerville has earned its spot as one of Ohio's best suburban communities through decades of smart growth and a great location. This isn't just another neighborhood tour—we're diving into what actually makes Centerville a place where putting down roots feels easy. Throughout this guide, we'll break down Centerville's ideal location and rich history, look at the housing market with real numbers, discover the amazing local spots, and explore the community vibe that residents absolutely love. By the end, you'll know exactly whether this exceptional community is the right fit for your family's next move.
A Mix of History and Perfect Location
Centerville's story started in the late 1700s as a quiet farming village with stone and brick cottages and two-story frame houses. As the city grew into a real suburb, residents made sure to preserve the historical roots by creating the architectural preservation district—most people call it "Historic Uptown." This area is now home to Centerville's main retail and restaurant scene, so you can find both history and your new favorite local restaurant just blocks from home.
Centerville's location perks go way beyond what's around the corner. You're just 15 minutes from downtown Dayton, making it perfect for professionals who want urban career opportunities without the classic downtown city feel. With quick access to I-75, I-70, I-675, and State Route 48, commutes around the Miami Valley and beyond are super easy. For frequent travelers, Dayton International Airport is just 27 miles away, making business trips and family vacations incredibly convenient.
You get all the benefits of Dayton's job market and amenities while also being well-positioned for day trips to Cincinnati, Columbus, or even weekend getaways to Indianapolis. Unlike some suburban communities that feel isolated, Centerville is surrounded by other great areas like Kettering, Beavercreek, Bellbrook, and Sugar Creek Township, while being located completely inside Washington Township. This creates a network of excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options just minutes from your front door.
What You Get in Centerville's Housing Market
Understanding these numbers is important for making the right decision for your family. Centerville's housing market has been incredibly strong, with homes going up in value at 7.85% annually over the past decade, and the market stays very competitive. The median sales price for 2025 sits at $375,000, making it an excellent value compared to similar suburbs in major cities across the country.
The cool thing about Centerville is how its 45 different neighborhoods serve different lifestyle needs. Near Historic Uptown, you'll find beautifully kept homes from the early to mid-1900s, many with original hardwood floors, unique architectural details, and walking distance to the charming downtown area. Established neighborhoods like Yankee Trace and Cheltenham offer that perfect mix of mature trees and updated amenities, with homes typically built in the 1990s through early 2000s. If you prefer newer construction, there are plenty of developments on the outskirts of Centerville with modern floor plans, energy-efficient systems, and current amenities.
Around $250,000: You'll find charming ranch homes and updated colonials from the 1960s and 70s on quarter to half-acre lots, many with three bedrooms, two baths, and those must-have two-car garages that make Ohio winters so much easier.
$350,000-$500,000: You're looking at spacious four-bedroom colonials with 2,000-3,000 square feet, finished basements perfect for family fun, and those beautiful tree-lined lots that make Centerville streets so nice.
$500,000-$750,000: Picture executive-style homes with amazing kitchens, custom features throughout, master suites that feel like personal getaways, and premium lots backing up to park space or wooded areas. These properties often have bonus rooms, three-car garages, and outdoor spaces designed for entertaining.
$750,000 and Up: You'll discover custom-built homes with luxury finishes, huge floor plans perfect for multi-generational living, and premium locations within Centerville's most desirable neighborhoods.
Centerville has incredible variety in home styles. Traditional colonials are everywhere, offering that timeless two-story design with center hall entries and formal living spaces. Contemporary ranch homes provide single-floor living that's perfect for growing families and future empty nesters. Cape Cod styles add charm with their distinctive dormers and cozy feel. Split-level homes, popular in several neighborhoods, offer unique floor plans that naturally separate living spaces.
Homes typically sell faster than other Dayton suburbs because of Centerville's great location, amenities, and school district. Many properties get multiple offers, with hot properties often selling for above asking price. This means you need to come in prepared with pre-approval and competitive offers. The property tax situation is reasonable for the area, and what you get for those taxes—excellent schools, well-maintained roads, and extensive parks—represents outstanding value for families.
Continued investment in the city's future shows the security of buying here, including ongoing commercial growth along major roads, which means more convenience without losing the residential character that makes Centerville special. When you add the strong school system and great location, home values should keep going up.
The Food Scene: Breakfast Through Dessert
Once you get here, what will daily life actually look like? The first word that comes to mind? Convenience. Having great restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment nearby makes all the difference.
Bill's Donut Shop is one of the most iconic food spots in the entire Miami Valley. Once visited by Food Network star Alton Brown himself, Bill's is everything you want in a donut shop—dimly lit, smelling like fried dough, and open 24/7. Nothing brings together college students, five-year-olds, and second-shift workers quite like fried dough being available at any hour.
The Brunch Pub at West Franklin Street serves brunch favorites like Eggs Benedict, Shakshouka, and Biscuits and Gravy until 3 p.m. every day—perfect for all the brunch lovers out there. Everything on the menu from brunch to dinner uses the freshest ingredients from local farms, highlighting Ohio's farms.
Meridian gives you another upscale brunch experience with a full dinner menu featuring oysters, small plates, handhelds, and more.
For coffee lovers, Contempo Roast Coffee and Roastery on South Main Street brings modern coffee culture to Centerville with expert roasting and seasonal drinks. Coffee Hub on North Main Street offers fantastic coffee and baked goods while supporting people in recovery, making every cup meaningful.
Agave and Rye delivers an innovative twist on tacos to the Miami Valley, serving their signature two-shell tacos in their tequila and bourbon hall. Their street art vibe and creative taco combinations make it perfect for date nights or nights out with friends.
Loose Ends features specialty burgers like their BBQ Mac and Cheese Smash Burger and PB&J Smash Burger alongside award-winning beers and Dayton's best Bloody Mary, voted three years in a row.
Mudlick Tap House is full of history, paying tribute to Mudlick Distillery, once hit by the Miami Valley flood of 1913 and Prohibition. Offering elevated pub food, specialty cocktails, and incredible desserts like their Sweet Potato Tartlet, this is a local favorite you simply have to try.
For special occasions, Manna Uptown on West Franklin Street has quite possibly one of the most beautiful dining rooms in all of Dayton with modern European and South American cuisine, bringing sophisticated flavors to Centerville that rival any big city restaurant.
For dessert, Whit's Frozen Custard will get you whether it's 90 degrees or 30 outside. Started in Ohio, Whit's gives you all the topping options to blend into the highest quality custard you'll find. Weekly flavors have included chocolate-covered strawberry, sea salt caramel truffle, and of course, Buckeye.
Shopping and What You Need
Cornerstone of Centerville serves as one of the area’s premier retail and dining destinations, featuring everything from national retailers to popular local restaurants in one convenient, walkable setting. Centerville is also home to the Costco and Whole Foods of the Greater Dayton area—it's a long drive for everyone else, but not for Centerville residents.
Historic Uptown is the heart of the community, filled with charming local boutiques and specialty shops that give the district its small-town character. Each storefront reflects the pride of local business owners, creating a warm, walkable atmosphere where residents love to browse, meet friends, and support small businesses while enjoying the area’s historic charm.
Centerville is also 15 minutes or less from The Greene Shopping Center, the Dayton Mall, and the Mall at Fairfield Commons, giving you easy access to all your favorite shopping destinations.
Fitness and Parks
For fitness fans, you have incredible options right in your backyard. Washington Township RecPlex offers comprehensive recreation services, including pools, fitness facilities, and youth programs. Planet Fitness on Alex Bell Road provides affordable fitness options with modern equipment, while LA Fitness offers a full-service gym experience with courts and group classes. For more local options, two community favorites are XOFitness and The Lifestyle Technique, both offering classes and other amenities.
Stubbs Park reopened in 2025 after major improvements with a renovated amphitheater, new event plaza, and better accessibility. This is where community concerts and festivals bring neighbors together throughout the year.
Bill Yeck Park stands out as a 194-acre natural area along 1.75 miles of Sugar Creek, loved by hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers. The park connects with other parks, creating a large stretch of green space and features the unique Tricentennial Time Trail showing natural changes over time.
Robert F. Mays Park, Patricia Allen Park, and Forest Walk Park each offer their own character from playgrounds perfect for young families to walking trails ideal for morning workouts.
Entertainment and Fun Stuff to Do
The Stubbs Park Amphitheater hosts concerts and community events throughout the year, including their summer concert series featuring cover bands from Classic Rock to Disney to Elvis Tributes. The Americana Festival is one of the region's largest 4th of July celebrations with concerts, auto shows, and spectacular fireworks that draw thousands of people to experience Centerville's community spirit.
Other entertainment includes Breakout Games, the National Air Force Museum a short distance away, Yankee Trace Golf Club, and Pickleball Kingdom—all perfect for family outings or team-building activities.
Centerville's closeness to Cincinnati means you're only 30-60 minutes from big city attractions like Kings Island Amusement Park, stadiums home to the Reds, Bengals, and FC Cincinnati, and the Aronoff Theatre, which features national Broadway touring shows throughout the year.
Community and Schools
Numbers and amenities only tell part of the story. The daily experience and community spirit really matter. Residents who choose Centerville are a nice mix of established families and career-focused professionals who value stability and community connection. You'll find neighbors who've lived here for decades alongside young families just starting out, creating a multi-generational vibe where kids ride bikes to visit neighborhood friends and grandparents feel comfortable walking to downtown coffee shops.
The pace here is intentionally relaxed without being boring. There's a real sense of community pride that shows in well-maintained properties, active neighborhood associations, and residents who genuinely care about keeping what makes Centerville special.
Centerville High School ranks in the top 10% of US public high schools, and the district is ranked number two in the Dayton area, serving about 2,700 students with tough academics and comprehensive extracurricular programs. The district also serves over 8,000 students across 13 school buildings, creating educational continuity from preschool through graduation. This educational excellence is what makes Centerville one of the most attractive suburbs for families moving to the region.
Why Centerville Residents Love It Here
According to local residents Stephanie and Jordan, schools were a big consideration. "The school system here is great, as well as there are great private schools in the area. So we thought no matter what direction we went with schools that our kids would grow up with a great education."
They appreciate the opportunities for families and kids with sports, library programs, and parks. "There's a lot of opportunities in this area for families, for kids, with sports. The library has a lot of different things, different programs you can be a part of. The parks are great."
They also love Centerville's evolving uptown: "Centerville has a really cool uptown and it's really come a long way. There's a lot of people investing in that area. Some new restaurants popping up."
What makes Centerville different? "We really liked that Centerville had really established neighborhoods but then also a lot of popping up communities. And so it felt like there's a good balance of people who've been here for a long time as well as a lot of families moving into the area."
As a small business owner, Jordan appreciates that "Centerville is a place that really appreciates small business... you won't find many chains in Centerville, which I really appreciate."
Your Next Chapter Starts Here
Centerville has this classic lived-in feel—big trees, beautiful older homes, and parks that actually get used, balancing both history and growth. You've got Stubbs Park for summer concerts, Bill's Donuts for late-night cravings, and a downtown that's full of personality.
People love it here because it feels established. The schools are top-notch, there's space to breathe, and you're still just a quick drive from Dayton or the highway. It's the kind of place people move to and stay. Whether you're a young family looking for excellent schools, a professional wanting convenient commutes, or anyone seeking that perfect balance between small-town charm and big city access, Centerville is worth serious consideration for your next move.
❓ FAQs About Centerville
Q: Is Centerville, Ohio a good place to live?
A: Yes, Centerville is considered one of the best places to live in the Dayton area. It offers excellent schools (ranked #2 in the Dayton area), a strong sense of community, convenient access to major highways, and a perfect balance of small-town charm with big city amenities nearby. Homes have appreciated at 7.85% annually over the past decade, showing strong market stability and desirability.
Q: How far is Centerville from downtown Dayton?
A: Centerville is just 15 minutes from downtown Dayton, making it ideal for professionals who work in the city but prefer a suburban lifestyle. You also get quick access to I-75, I-70, I-675, and State Route 48 for easy commutes throughout the Miami Valley.
Q: What is the median home price in Centerville, Ohio?
A: The median sales price in Centerville for 2025 is $375,000. However, you can find homes ranging from around $250,000 for charming ranch homes and updated colonials up to $750,000+ for custom-built luxury properties. The market is competitive, with many homes receiving multiple offers and selling quickly.
Q: Are Centerville schools good?
A: Centerville schools are excellent. Centerville High School ranks in the top 10% of US public high schools, and the district is ranked #2 in the Dayton area. The district serves over 8,000 students across 13 school buildings, offering rigorous academics, comprehensive extracurricular programs, extensive AP courses, championship athletics, and award-winning arts programs.
Q: What are the best restaurants in Centerville, Ohio?
A: Centerville has an impressive food scene with local favorites including Bill's Donut Shop (open 24/7 and visited by Alton Brown), The Brunch Pub, Agave and Rye for innovative tacos, Loose Ends Brewing for specialty burgers and craft beer, Mudlick Tap House for elevated pub fare, and Manna Uptown for special occasions. You won't find many chain restaurants—Centerville really supports local businesses.
Q: What is there to do in Centerville, Ohio?
A: Centerville offers plenty of activities including Stubbs Park with its amphitheater for summer concerts, Bill Yeck Park's 194 acres for hiking and nature, the Americana Festival (one of the region's largest 4th of July celebrations), Yankee Trace Golf Club, Pickleball Kingdom, and Breakout Games. You're also close to Cincinnati attractions like Kings Island, professional sports stadiums, and Broadway shows at the Aronoff Theatre.
Q: How many neighborhoods are in Centerville?
A: Centerville has 45 distinct neighborhoods, each serving different lifestyle preferences. You can choose from historic homes near Uptown dating back to the early 1900s, established neighborhoods like Yankee Trace and Cheltenham with homes from the 1990s-2000s, or newer construction developments on the outskirts with modern amenities. This variety means there's something for everyone.
Q: What is Historic Uptown Centerville?
A: Historic Uptown is Centerville's architectural preservation district, originally established in the late 1700s as a farming village. Today, it's the heart of Centerville's retail and restaurant scene, featuring beautifully preserved stone and brick cottages and two-story frame houses alongside charming local boutiques, specialty shops, and some of the city's best restaurants. It's walkable and full of character.
Want To Read More?
Other Entries
Discover everything about Centerville, Ohio in this complete tour. Housing market data, best restaurants, parks, schools & why families love this Dayton suburb.
Everything you need to know before moving to Cincinnati—neighborhoods, costs, schools, jobs & lifestyle tips.
Discover the best things to do in winter in Cincinnati! From indoor adventures to outdoor ice skating, find perfect activities for families, kids & adults.
Discover the 4 Cincinnati restaurants on OpenTable's Top 100 list. From Jeff Ruby's steaks to Sotto's Italian charm, explore Cincy's best dining spots.
Discover Cincinnati's best burgers from historic classics to trendy newcomers. This local's guide covers smash burgers, thick patties & neighborhood gems.
Explore Hyde Park Cincinnati, a historic, walkable neighborhood known for luxury homes, dining, parks, and timeless charm in the heart of the city.
Discover Maronda Homes' building process, pricing, and communities in Cincinnati. Expert insights on timelines, floor plans, and what makes them unique.
Discover Madisonville, Cincinnati's fastest-growing neighborhood. Explore homes from $200K-$500K+, trendy restaurants, and why buyers are flocking here.
Explore the best Cincinnati skyline views from 10 amazing spots. From Mount Adams to Newport, find hidden gems and classic viewpoints across the Queen City.
Discover Lebanon, Ohio—a Warren County gem blending 19th-century history, vibrant festivals, and affordable living. Your complete 2025 relocation guide.
Explore the devastating yet exhilarating reality of being a Cincinnati sports fan. From Reds to Bengals to FC Cincinnati—this is our year!
Discover why D.R. Horton is a top Cincinnati home builder. Learn about floor plans, pricing, communities in Dayton & Northern Kentucky. Expert insights inside.
Step inside Cincinnati’s most breathtaking new build — a $1.68M masterpiece by Justin Doyle Homes showcased at Homearama 2025 in Oakley.
Discover Norwood, Ohio—a historic enclave of Cincinnati where affordability, charm, and community thrive amid modern growth and local vibrancy.
Discover Northern Kentucky in 2025 — from top neighborhoods to must-try restaurants, breweries, and outdoor escapes. Your complete relocation and travel guide.
Discover why Beavercreek, Ohio is becoming the most sought-after Dayton suburb. Explore housing prices, top-rated schools, dining, and community insights from local experts.
Discover the history and highlights of Cincinnati Homearama, where stunning design, luxury living, and community converge in an unforgettable showcase.
Discover Cincinnati's most iconic bridges from Roebling to Brent Spence. Complete guide to spans shaping the Queen City's connectivity and charm.
Discover Pleasant Ridge, Cincinnati's vibrant walkable neighborhood. Explore dining, housing market, amenities & community life in this diverse area.
Tour the exquisite 8060 Trotters Trail Ct estate—6,500+ sqft, 2 acres, pool, theater, and premium finishes.
Discover the full Cincinnati home building process from selecting a builder to move-in day. Build confidently with expert insight and insider tips.
Discover the proven 7-step home buying process that eliminates stress and secures your perfect home. Expert guidance from pre-approval to closing day.
Discover The Baron Group's revolutionary Cincinnati real estate process. Get top dollar for your home with proven strategies, expert marketing, and stress-free selling.
Discover why Cincinnati's real estate market remains stable amid national volatility. Expert insights on pricing, inventory, and opportunities for 2025
Discover Northside Cincinnati through our comprehensive neighborhood tour. Explore dining, housing, culture & amenities in this vibrant walkable community.
Explore Cincinnati's best-preserved Victorian architecture in East Walnut Hills. Tour this historic home featuring original mahogany details, turret rooms, and John Ruthven heritage.
Discover Drees Homes, Cincinnati's premier home builder since 1928. Explore their 200+ floor plans, custom builds, and family-owned construction excellence.
Join the excitement of the Baron Group Reds Game—an unforgettable night of baseball, bonding, and community spirit in Cincinnati.
Explore Loveland, Ohio—a top Cincinnati suburb known for its scenic trails, vibrant downtown, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Discover 11 beloved Cincinnati coffee spots locals love. From espresso artistry to community vibes, here's your ultimate Cincinnati coffee guide.
Explore why The Baron Group is Greater Cincinnati's #1 real estate team. Redefining how homes are bought and sold.
Discover essential tips and insights for any first-time homebuyer. Learn how to budget, negotiate, and close with confidence.
Discover the thriving Cincinnati running scene. Explore run clubs, top races, and expert gear tips for a next-level running experience in the Queen City.
Explore the top 2025 home design trends, from earthy color palettes to curved furniture, biophilic design, maximalism, and more. Discover how to apply them.
Discover the story of Two Cities Pizza in Cincinnati. A unique restaurant blending New York and Chicago styles, community love, and award-winning pizza.
Discover the forgotten Cincinnati Subway and explore bold new ideas to repurpose the tunnels. Could this be the city's next big transformation?
Explore the best Cincinnati pizza spots! From crispy Detroit-style to cheesy deep dish, these top 5 pizzerias serve up unforgettable slices.
Meet Cincinnati home builder Justin Doyle Homes. Discover their custom process, quality focus, and why they lead in Cincinnati home building.
Explore the must-see Cincinnati events in 2025, from food fests to fireworks. Your ultimate guide to the Queen City's best celebrations.
Discover expert-backed tips for winterizing your home. Avoid costly mistakes and stay cozy with this complete guide to winterizing your home this season.
Discover the inspiring story of City Gospel Mission, a leading Cincinnati non-profit transforming lives through housing, recovery, youth programs, and more.
Discover the six standout Cincinnati restaurants named in OpenTable's Top 100 for 2024. Explore where to dine in style in the Queen City.
Discover a step-by-step guide to a smooth and stress-free home renovation. Learn how to plan, budget, and execute your next home renovation with confidence.
Discover five transformative Cincinnati developments elevating the Queen City's skyline, economy, and neighborhoods.
Discover expert painting tips to enhance your home's value and aesthetic. Learn how to paint smart with these professional Cincinnati painting insights.
Explore Mt. Lookout, Cincinnati's #1 neighborhood to buy a home. From food to parks and real estate, discover what makes Mt. Lookout the gem of Queen City living.
Discover the best Cincinnati date night ideas for every budget. From rooftop views to jazz in the park, these top 10 experiences will elevate your next romantic outing.
Discover the best Cincinnati date night ideas for every budget. From rooftop views to jazz in the park, these top 10 experiences will elevate your next romantic outing.
Discover the best Cincinnati hiking trails within the I-275 loop for every skill level—from wooded paths to river views. Your go-to guide for local outdoor adventures.
Discover Clifton, a dynamic Cincinnati neighborhood rich in history, culture, and amenities. Explore housing, dining, entertainment, and more in Clifton!
Explore the top Cincinnati careers across tech, healthcare, finance, education, and more. Discover top companies hiring and where your future could thrive in the Queen City.
The NAR settlement has changed how real estate works nationwide. Learn how buyer and seller rules have shifted and what the changes mean for your next transaction.
Explore the architectural evolution of Cincinnati home styles, from Federal and Queen Anne to Mid-Century Modern and Contemporary.
Discover the architectural brilliance of The Westcott House in Ohio, Frank Lloyd Wright's only Prairie-style home in the state.
Discover 10 surprising insights about living in Cincinnati—from neighborhood vibes to chili debates and scenic parks.
Explore Fort Thomas, Kentucky's #1 place to live in 2024. Learn about its lifestyle, real estate, parks, and strong sense of community.
Learn everything you need to know about the pre-approval process. From credit checks to documentation, here's your guide to navigating home buying.
Explore the vibrant lifestyle, historic homes, and walkable charm of East Walnut Hills. Learn why it's the top choice for living in Cincinnati.
Avoid common homebuyer mistakes with this comprehensive guide. Learn how to navigate the pre-approval process, inspections, budgeting, and more.
Discover how a home warranty works, what it covers, and why it's a smart investment for buyers and sellers. Learn the truth about home warranties.
Discover why Mason, Ohio is a top-rated suburb with elite schools, endless amenities, and a vibrant, family-friendly lifestyle.
The Baron Group Reds Game 2024 brought 3,000 guests together for a thrilling night of baseball and community. Relive the magic in Mason, Ohio.
Discover what makes living in Cincinnati so special. From sports to food, art, and history, here's how to thrive in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Discover five must-see Cincinnati hidden gems. From local eats to real estate trends, uncover the neighborhoods that deserve your attention.
Discover why Northern Kentucky is a hidden gem—offering big-city perks, small-town feel, top-notch schools, and low cost of living.
Unlock the secrets to home staging that sells—declutter, refresh, and style your way to top-dollar offers.
Discover why Silverton is the next hot Cincinnati neighborhood. Learn about real estate, growth, and unique local charm.
Explore Oakley, a vibrant Cincinnati neighborhood with rich amenities, unique homes, and unbeatable location. See why it's in high demand.
Found your dream home on Zillow? Here's how to move fast and smart in today's hot market to secure it.
Learn how to successfully buy and sell a home at the same time. Explore financing options, timing strategies, and expert insights to win in a hot real estate market.
Explore how to navigate the 2024 Cincinnati housing market. Essential tips for buyers and sellers in one of America's hottest real estate markets.
The Baron Group Newsletter
Stay Up To Date With New Media From The Baron Group
Make your move
Contact Baron Group
The Baron Group
513-600-4117
