Affectionately and appropriately nicknamed "Hub City," Centralia is at the heart of it all. According to city manager Mike Thomas, the nickname stems from its central location about 80 miles from Seattle, Portland, the coast and the Cascades. "We’re the biggest city in Lewis County and while we have our issues and challenges, we have a lot going for us," he says. With nearly 19,000 residents, this number is projected to rise by 31% in the next 20 years.
With this expected growth, the city plans to strengthen Centralia’s safety, identity and sense of community. “Centralia wants to welcome new businesses, improve our trails and bring in middle class jobs and opportunities," Thomas says. Most of all, Centralia prides itself on an open and caring nature. “We welcome newcomers, and we’re very much connected with one another. Like when we experienced a devastating flood in 2009 and then a lesser one in 2022. More than anything else, it shows how strong we are as a community," Thomas says.
Centralia City is named "Hub City" for being centrally located between Portland and Seattle.
Fort Borst Park has several historical landmarks including an over 100 year old schoolhouse.
1/2
Exploring historic downtown and Centralia Factory Outlets
The Historic Downtown Centralia District dates all the way back to 1885 and is included in the National Register of Historic Places. With many clustered along S Tower Avenue, the city’s vibrant shops, restaurants and galleries add local flavor. “We have a lot of small local businesses in the area, and a downtown association that works to keep our historic district vibrant,” Thomas says. There is also the Centralia Farmers Market, which runs from May to September, and the Centralia Factory Outlets for name brand items.
The Downtown Centralia District is featured in the National Register of Historic Places.
The Rectangle Gallery in Centralia features artwork from many local artists in the city.
Locals can shop at many discounted prices at the Centralia Factory Outlets.
Centralia ocals can learn how to make their own sourdough at the Grist Urban Stone Mill.
1/4
Centralia's festivals, events and performances to attend
Throughout the year, Centralia always has an exciting event to attend. In July, racers in the Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic stop at Centralia College, the event's official mid-point. Every August brings the Antique Fest and the Hub City Car Show to town. Halloween is celebrated with a Ghost Tour and Dark Market, while December brings a Lighted Tractor Parade and a Tree Lighting Ceremony with a visit with Santa Claus.
The Evergreen Playhouse and the Fox Theatre are both entertainment institutions, each with their own long and storied histories with the city. Centralia College’s theater also hosts lots of performances, including an annual production of “The Nutcracker.”
The historic Fox Theatre in downtown Centralia has been open for over 150 years.
Locals can watch a live show at the Evergreen Playhouse in Centralia.
1/2
Recreation and programs at local Centralia parks
Fort Borst Park is popular with groups for its athletic fields and the historic Borst home and one-room schoolhouse. There is also a lake where the Lions Fishing Derby is held in April. The visually stunning Seminary Hill Natural Area includes walking trails lined with Douglas firs and red cedars. The Friends of Seminary Hill also organizes several events here during the summer. Plus, there’s a rollerdrome, and plenty of water activities on the Chehalis River and various ponds throughout the city.
The Chehalis River runs throughout the city of Centralia, WA.
People from all over flock to Fort Borst Park for baseball games.
Seminary Hill Natural Area in Centralia can be a great place for a scenic hike.
Forst Borst Park in Centralia, WA features many amenities including many playfields.
1/4
Modest homes that range all over
Ranch-styles, Craftsmans and duplexes are popular designs for single-family homes in Centralia. Properties range from turn-of-the-century buildings to contemporary constructions. The median price for a single-family home is $390,0000 and it takes about 54 days for a home to sell, slightly longer than the national average of 44 days.
Craftsman homes are among the variety of home styles found in Centralia, WA.
Duplexes are commonly found near the more dense areas of Centralia.
1/2
Public and higher education in Centralia
The Centralia School District receives a C-grade from Niche and serves over 3,400 students. Centralia College is a public community college that includes 57 different areas of study and is the oldest one in the state of Washington.
Centralia College is a public community college offering over 57 different areas of study.
Centralia High School is in the Centralia School District and earns a C- grade from Niche.
Centralia Middle School is a part of the Centralia School District.
The Centralia School District has several schools, including Edison Elementary.
1/4
Interstate highways, air travel and the nearest hospital
The city has access to several significant highways, such as I-5 which extends all the way to the Canadian border. State Route 6 Twin Transit provides public bus services to Centralia residents. Centralia is also 54 miles from Tacoma, while Seattle and Portland are both about 80 miles in either direction. The Chehalis Airport provides local flights and Providence Centralia Hospital is right in town.
Centralia's crime and climate trends
According to data from the FBI reported by the Centralia Police Department in 2023, the city experienced a 33% decrease in violent crime and a 27% increase in property crime. Data from First Street suggests that Centralia has a moderate risk for floods, wildfires and intense heat, as well as a major air quality risk.
Written By
Julia Concepcion
Photography Contributed By
Carter Rogers
Video By
Jahlil Harris
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tina King,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Centralia, WA sell after 126 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Centralia, WA over the last 12 months is $470,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Like-new 2021 home in desirable Tucker Estates offering 1,860 sq ft of well-designed living space with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Quality finishes shine throughout, including fresh carpet and paint, elegant wainscoting, and a cozy electric fireplace anchoring the main living area. Highly efficient forced-air heat with heat pump provides year-round comfort with central A/C. Durable laminate
Welcome to this spacious and well-maintained 2,780 sq ft home in a desirable, established neighborhood. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence offers a versatile layout with plenty of room for living, working, and entertaining—all set on a fully fenced 0.29 acre lot. The spacious living room features a large window that brings in abundant natural light. The recently updated kitchen offers ample
Stunning, one-owner, like-new Hinkle Homes 2-story tucked on a quiet cul-de-sac in sought-after Tucker Estates—designed with the move-up buyer in mind. Thoughtful upgrades and quality craftsmanship shine throughout. Enjoy year-round comfort with a heat pump and a cozy propane fireplace. An elegant entry leads to a spacious, light-filled great room and a beautifully appointed kitchen at the
Perched atop 3.62 private acres, this exceptional property offers sweeping views over the treetops and a peaceful setting surrounded by nature. The home sits well off the road, creating a sense of seclusion while still being just minutes from town. Mature forest blends beautifully into open grassy meadows, with established rhododendrons and a variety of fruit trees including pear and apple.
Two bedroom, 1 bath home. Bank owned. NO REPRESENTATION TO THE VALIDITY OF INFORMATION IS MADE, BUYER TO VERIFY ALL INFORMATION WHEREIN. Interior inspections are not available; do not trespass!
Take advantage of todays Spring Price Reduction! Listen to the sounds of the gurgling rocky creek and the rustle of the wind thru the tall trees on your own private sanctuary. Escape to your own picturesque camping site in the grassy, open meadow hidden inside over 8 forested acres. This private property is tucked away behind a locked security gate and offers the perfect blend of seclusion but
This is a rare opportunity to own a beautiful home and property! This four-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath home has been meticulously maintained by a carpenter and an exceptional gardener, showcasing quality craftsmanship and stunning outdoor spaces. Offering 1,718 square feet of living space on a large lot, this home provides both comfort and character.Enjoy the beautiful backyard from your covered
Like-new 2021 home in desirable Tucker Estates offering 1,860 sq ft of well-designed living space with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Quality finishes shine throughout, including fresh carpet and paint, elegant wainscoting, and a cozy electric fireplace anchoring the main living area. Highly efficient forced-air heat with heat pump provides year-round comfort with central A/C. Durable laminate
Welcome to this charming 2-bed, 2-bath home in the desirable 55+ Nylandia community! Enjoy an open concept layout with vaulted ceilings, a spacious kitchen, and plenty of natural light. Bonus storage in the carport and a fenced backyard and Tuff Shed for added convenience. Heat Pump too! Just minutes from the freeway, shopping, medical services, and more! Space rent is only $380 per month and
Exceptional opportunity to own a private country estate with built-in income potential on 3.32 beautifully usable acres, just 15 minutes to dining, shopping, and Riverside Golf Course. This rare property borders Coffee Creek offering stunning surroundings. The 2,233 sq ft main home features 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths with updates throughout, including a slate entry, newer roof, vinyl windows,
Renovated 4-bed, 2-bath home in Centralia! This 1,954 sq ft gem features a stunning kitchen remodel with brand-new appliances, updated flooring on both levels, and fresh paint throughout. The private upstairs suite with separate mudroom entrance offers incredible flexibility—perfect for guests, home office, or multi-gen living. HVAC keeps you comfortable year-round. Enjoy your fully fenced
Designed for your comfort and convenience, the Finley is anchored by a sprawling great room that flows into a lavish kitchen with a center island, walk-in pantry and adjacent dining area. Upstairs, you’ll enjoy the flexibility of an expansive loft space. To one side of the loft, you'll find access to three generous secondary bedrooms. And to the other side, a large primary suite boasts a spacious
Beautifully updated and private 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offering space, comfort, and exceptional lifestyle features. Meticulously maintained with a new roof and fresh paint, this home is truly move-in ready. The flexible floor plan includes a bonus room that can serve as a home office, gym, or guest space. Enjoy the covered front porch and back deck for relaxing or entertaining. The property
The Byron plan offers a beautifully designed open-concept layout that perfectly balances style, comfort, and functionality. The main floor centers around a spacious, modern kitchen featuring a large center island—ideal for casual dining, entertaining, or gathering with loved ones. From the kitchen, sightlines extend seamlessly into the inviting great room and dining area, creating a bright,
Set across 4.2+/- acres, this 4,015+/- sq ft residence captures a sense of space, light, and quiet that’s increasingly hard to find. Territorial views stretch outward, with partial mountain views beyond, while each morning begins with a truly breathtaking sunrise—best experienced from the home’s expansive wraparound deck. Inside, the materials speak for themselves. Hickory floors, a chiseled
Embrace Ultimate Comfort & ConvenienceBrand-New Apartments in Centralia, WashingtonFind the ideal home for your fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyle at The Varsity in Centralia, Washington. Choose from our two brand-new communities in Lewis County, each of which is primely located and competitively priced with a modern style. Whether you choose a studio or one bedroom home at The Varsity
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
