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Centerville

Centerville, TX Area Guide

Tucked in the heart of Leon County, Centerville is a peaceful Texas town offering timeless charm and small-town hospitality. With its scenic countryside, tight-knit community, and strategic location between Houston and Dallas, Centerville is a hidden gem for those seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing access to big-city amenities. Whether you're starting a family, retiring, or just looking for wide-open spaces and a place to call your own, Centerville is a great place to put down roots. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle surrounded by nature, rich traditions, and a sense of belonging that's hard to find elsewhere.

Location

Centerville is conveniently located at the midpoint between Dallas and Houston along Interstate 45, making it ideal for commuters and travelers alike. Nestled in a region known for rolling pastures and dense pine forests, the town offers quiet rural living while still being less than two hours from major shopping, entertainment, and cultural destinations.

Population

Centerville is home to just under 900 residents, according to the 2020 Census. Its small population gives the town a close-knit feel where neighbors support one another, and it's easy to make lasting connections. Whether you're new to town or a lifelong resident, you're always greeted with a wave and a friendly smile.

Centerville, TX History

Founded in 1850, Centerville has served as the county seat of Leon County for over 170 years. Its name reflects its central location in the county, making it a natural hub for community gatherings, business, and local government. In its early years, Centerville grew as a trading and agricultural center, supporting surrounding farms, ranches, and families settling the fertile land of East Texas. The historic Leon County Courthouse, constructed in 1887, stands as a proud symbol of the town’s resilience and civic pride. Generations of families have called Centerville home, preserving its traditions while welcoming newcomers with open arms.

Fort Boggy State Park

Fort Boggy State Park, located just south of Centerville in Leon County, offers a scenic escape into nature for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Spanning over 1,800 acres, the park features wooded trails, a spring-fed lake, and open spaces perfect for hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. The 15-acre lake is stocked with bass, catfish, and sunfish, making it a favorite spot for anglers. Fort Boggy’s day-use areas and primitive campsites provide a peaceful setting for picnics or overnight adventures. Rich in natural beauty and native wildlife, the park also serves as a haven for deer, armadillos, and countless bird species. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly weekend getaway or a quiet place to reconnect with nature, Fort Boggy State Park offers a refreshing blend of recreation and tranquility in the heart of East Texas. It's a true gem for both locals and visitors exploring Leon County.

The Leon County Courthouse

The Leon County Courthouse in Centerville, Texas, is a proud landmark that reflects the area's deep-rooted history and architectural charm. Built in 1887 and designed by architect William M. Johnson, the courthouse showcases Classical Revival and Greek Revival styles, with its grand columns, arched windows, and prominent clock tower. As one of the oldest active courthouses in Texas, it stands as a symbol of civic pride and historical continuity. Designated as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, the building has served as the center of legal and governmental activity for over a century. Located in the middle of the town square, it anchors Centerville’s small-town charm, surrounded by local businesses and shaded sidewalks. Beyond its governmental role, the courthouse often hosts community gatherings and celebrations, making it not only a center of justice but also a cherished cultural hub. It remains a must-see destination for history lovers visiting Leon County.

Climate

Centerville experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Average high temperatures reach into the mid-90s during July and August, making it ideal for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and barbecues. Winters are short and cool, with average highs around 60°F in January. Rain is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with May typically being the wettest month.

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Work With Your Trusted Local Experts

When buying property in Centerville, our team stands out as the local experts you can trust. As the top real estate team in the area for 2024, we pride ourselves on being deeply connected to the community and highly knowledgeable about the unique aspects of rural properties. From understanding utility setups and property taxes to navigating the details of acreage, ranches and rural subdivisions, we bring unmatched expertise to every transaction. Whether you're seeking your dream home, a working ranch or a quiet retreat, we're here to guide you with local insight and personalized service.

Education

Centerville ISD serves students across two campuses with a strong focus on academics, character development, and community involvement. Known for its school spirit and supportive environment, the district fosters close connections between teachers, students, and families. Centerville students enjoy personalized attention, extracurricular opportunities, and a tradition of excellence in both academics and athletics. Friday night football games and community events help bring the town together, making the school system a central part of life in Centerville.

Cost of Living

Centerville offers a very affordable lifestyle, with housing and living expenses well below state and national averages. Lower property taxes, reasonable home prices, and everyday affordability make it an ideal location for families, retirees, and anyone looking to get more value for their money. Residents enjoy a high quality of life without the financial pressure of urban living.

Economic / Job Market

Centerville’s economy is supported by agriculture, small businesses, local government, education, and healthcare. As with many rural towns, job openings are often filled through local connections, bulletin boards, or community networks. Entrepreneurs and self-starters will find opportunities to launch new ventures, and job growth in the area is expected to steadily increase in the coming years, aligning with state and national trends.

Commerce

Centerville supports a vibrant local economy through its many small businesses, family-owned shops, and service providers. From hardware stores and boutiques to local cafes and farm supply shops, the town’s business community reflects its character and values. Regular events like farmers markets and seasonal festivals provide platforms for local entrepreneurs to showcase their products and connect with customers.

Opportunities

Centerville is an attractive destination for individuals and families seeking a quieter life with room to grow. As real estate prices rise in Texas cities, Centerville offers an affordable, lifestyle-rich alternative. Remote workers, young professionals, and retirees alike are discovering the benefits of small-town life with modern-day conveniences. Whether starting a business, raising a family, or enjoying retirement, Centerville provides space, community, and opportunity to thrive.

Real Estate In Centerville

Centerville, located in the heart of Leon County, offers a wide range of real estate options ideal for individuals, families, and investors alike. This charming rural town and its surrounding areas provide an appealing mix of small-town atmosphere and countryside living, perfect for those seeking peace and space without straying too far from major Texas cities. Whether you're looking for a forever home, weekend retreat, or investment property, Centerville delivers both opportunity and value with a variety of property types to suit your lifestyle and goals:

  • Residential homes in town
  • Apartment complexes and duplexes
  • Commercial properties
  • Homes on small acreage (under 10 acres)
  • Homes in rural subdivisions (0.5–15 acres)
  • Homes on large acreage
  • Ranch, cattle and hay properties
  • Commercial poultry operations
  • Recreational and hunting properties

Schools In The Area

Check our schools near Centerville complete with ratings and contact info.
Centerville Elementary School 903-536-2235 Public PK-6
Centerville Jr-Sr High School 903-536-2935 Public 7-12
Centerville Elementary School 903-536-2235 Public PK-6
Centerville Elementary School 903-536-2235 Public PK-6
Centerville Jr-Sr High School 903-536-2935 Public 7-12
Centerville Jr-Sr High School 903-536-2935 Public 7-12

Around The Area

Browse through the top rated businesses that Franklin has to offer!

Local News & Advice

Read helpful resources and articles related to the area.

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