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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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On average, homes in Centralia, WA sell after 55 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Centralia, WA over the last 12 months is $437,500, down 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
The Byron floor plan is 1,586 sq/ft 3bd/2.25ba home. This home features: quartz countertops in the kitchen & primary bathroom, deep stainless steel kitchen sink, LVP throughout main floor, 8' Ceilings, front yard landscaping, white cabinets w/hardware & soft close hinges, fireplace, microwave/hood, range/oven, dishwasher & garbage disposal. The Byron plan offers a beautifully designed
The Byron floor plan is 1,586 sq/ft 3bd/2.25ba home. This home features: quartz countertops in the kitchen & primary bathroom, deep stainless steel kitchen sink, LVP throughout main floor, 8' Ceilings, front yard landscaping, white cabinets w/hardware & soft close hinges, fireplace, microwave/hood, range/oven, dishwasher & garbage disposal. The Byron plan offers a beautifully designed
The Finley floor plan is a 2,447 sq/ft 4bd/2.25ba home. This home will come with: quartz countertops in Kitchen & Primary bathroom, deep stainless steel kitchen sink, tile backsplash in Kitchen, LVP throughout main floor (except under stairs), 8' Ceilings, front yard landscaping, White cabinets w/hardware & soft close hinges, covered back patio, microwave/hood, range/oven, dishwasher & garbage
Welcome to your dream country homestead! Tucked away in a peaceful rural setting, this spacious 2,000+ SF home sits on 24.38 acres of pure Pacific NW paradise. Perfect for horse lovers, the property is fully fenced with multiple loafing sheds, a quarter-mile track, & an 8-11 stall barn with a tack room, grooming stall, 22 ton hay loft, 19x22' shavings bay. Ride year-round in the 60x60 covered
Tucked away on 3.62 private acres, this custom-built home offers peaceful setting w/ expansive treetop views & blend of mature forest, open meadows, established rhododendrons & fruit trees including pear & apple. Bordering Port Blakely Tree Farm, property enjoys natural backdrop that enhances sense of privacy while remaining just 10 minutes from shopping, dining, parks & Providence Centralia
NEW PRICE — $399,900! Beautifully updated 4-bedroom home in the heart of Centralia, offering the perfect blend of timeless 1920s character and fresh modern finishes. With approximately 1,632 sq ft, this home provides flexible living space with four bedrooms, including room for a home office, guest room, or playroom. Enjoy a bright and inviting interior, updated kitchen, refreshed bathroom,
Welcome to 151 Nix Lane in Country Life Estates. Situated on a desirable corner lot in this all-age community, this home offers fresh updates inside and out. Step into a large living room with plenty of space to relax or entertain. The kitchen features a great layout with ample cabinetry, a pantry for extra storage, and a built-in hutch that makes the perfect coffee bar or serving station. This
Welcome home to comfort and affordable living in Country Life Estates. This refreshed manufactured home offers 3 bedrooms, two full bathrooms and a thoughtful layout with two separate living areas—perfect for spreading out, entertaining, or creating a home office or hobby space. The spacious primary suite features a large walk-in closet and a private bath complete with a dual sink vanity and
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,
**Investment Opportunity!** Bring your vision and unlock the potential in this 2-bedroom, ¾-bath fixer. Featuring a durable metal roof, gas furnace, and a good-sized lot with plenty of room to work with. With a strong past rental history, this could be a great addition to your investment portfolio—renovate and rent it out again, or roll up your sleeves and make it your own. A solid opportunity
Welcome to 149 Nix Lane in Country Life Estates, Comfortable living in country setting. Fresh interior and exterior paint, updated flooring, and thoughtful improvements make this home move-in ready. This well-designed home offers 3 bedrooms plus a den, office, or optional 4th bedroom, providing flexible space for the way you live today—whether you need room for guests, hobbies, or a home
Welcome to Country Life Estates, an all-age park offering a peaceful country setting and room to enjoy the outdoors. This refreshed double wide manufactured home features a new roof, fresh interior and exterior paint more. New flooring and blinds throughout, creating a clean and inviting feel from the moment you arrive. The well-designed floor plan offers 2 bedrooms plus a den / office or ? space
First time on the market! This exceptional 21.23-acre property offers a rare opportunity to enjoy the privacy of country living while investing in the future. Lovingly cared for by the same family for decades, the property was once dedicated to raising quarter horses and features a spacious 32' x 42' barn with stalls and tack room, a 32' x 44' shop, and a comfortable and functional 1,680 sq. ft.
Whether you're looking to invest or owner-occupy, this charming duplex is full of opportunity! Situated on a spacious corner lot in a highly desirable neighborhood, this well-maintained property offers a strong rental history and an ideal layout. Each unit features 2 generously sized bedrooms, 1 full bath, and comfortable living spaces designed for everyday living. Recent updates include a newer
Step inside 157 Nix Lane and discover a beautifully refreshed 4-bedroom home where generous living spaces and quality finishes create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The thoughtfully designed floor plan offers a spacious living room, formal dining area, and a comfortable gathering room just off the kitchen, creating the perfect setting for everyday living and entertaining. The stunning kitchen is
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
NEWLY RENOVATED - STUDIO HOMES IN CENTRALIA, WA. Discover a place to call home at Valley View Homes. Our efficient studio homes provide an ideal retreat from your busy schedule in Centralia, Washington. The community offers newly updated pet-friendly spaces with a utility and technology package to match your modern, on-the-go schedule. When you open your new front door, public transit is a few
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