Centenary, White Plains, NY

Centenary Neighborhood Overview

Centenary is a historic and architecturally distinct neighborhood located in the northern section of White Plains, New York. Bordered roughly by North Broadway to the west, the Hutchinson River Parkway to the east, and extending north toward the Scarsdale line, it is a quiet, residential enclave known for its tree-lined streets and strong sense of community. The neighborhood derives its name from Centenary Methodist Church, a landmark founded in the 19th century, which anchors the area and contributes to its established, traditional character.

Historically, the area developed significantly in the early 20th century, with many homes built in the 1920s and 1930s. Its location offers a suburban feel while being just minutes from the bustling downtown White Plains transit hub, Metro-North station, and major highways like I-287 and the Bronx River Parkway. This blend of serene residential living with exceptional connectivity to Westchester County and New York City is a defining feature of the Centenary neighborhood.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Centenary is predominantly composed of classic single-family homes, showcasing a variety of traditional styles including Tudors, Colonials, Cape Cods, and Dutch Colonials. These homes are situated on well-sized, landscaped lots, contributing to the neighborhood's spacious and green aesthetic. The architectural consistency and historical integrity of the area are highly valued by residents, with many homes meticulously maintained or thoughtfully renovated.

Real estate in Centenary is consistently in high demand, reflecting its desirability. Price ranges are typically in the upper tiers for White Plains, often starting well above the city's median, reflecting the lot sizes, home square footage, and neighborhood prestige. The market is overwhelmingly owner-occupied, with a very low rental presence, which reinforces the stable, long-term community atmosphere. Recent trends show sustained value growth, with renovated properties commanding significant premiums.

Schools & Education

Families in the Centenary neighborhood are served by the White Plains City School District, which is known for its diversity and robust academic programs. Specific public schools associated with the area include Rochambeau School (K-5) and Highlands Middle School, both of which are highly regarded and within close proximity. White Plains High School, a comprehensive high school with a wide array of Advanced Placement courses and extracurricular activities, serves the entire city.

In addition to the strong public system, residents have access to several prestigious private and parochial school options in the immediate area and throughout Westchester County. The neighborhood's location is also convenient for higher education, with colleges like Pace University's White Plains campus and SUNY Purchase just a short drive away, adding an academic dimension to the broader community.

Parks & Recreation

Centenary residents enjoy access to several excellent parks and recreational facilities. The centrally located Highlands Park is a major asset, featuring baseball fields, playgrounds, and walking paths. Just to the east, the expansive Saxon Woods Park offers a true natural retreat with a public golf course, swimming pool, hiking trails, and picnic areas, all managed by Westchester County.

For more passive recreation, the neighborhood's own quiet streets are ideal for walking, jogging, and biking. The proximity to the Bronx River Parkway pathway also provides a scenic route for cyclists and runners connecting to other parts of the county. These green spaces contribute significantly to the neighborhood's quality of life, offering ample opportunity for outdoor activities without leaving the community.

Local Dining & Shopping

While Centenary itself is primarily residential, its borders offer convenient everyday shopping. The North Broadway corridor features essential retail, including a Stop & Shop supermarket, various banks, and local service businesses. For a wider array of dining and boutique shopping, the vibrant downtown White Plains district is only a five-minute drive south, offering everything from casual eateries and cafes to fine dining and national retailers.

Residents also frequently patronize the shopping and dining options in nearby Hartsdale and Scarsdale Village, both of which are easily accessible. The neighborhood's charm lies in its peaceful setting, with the understanding that a vast selection of culinary and retail experiences is readily available within a short distance, blending suburban tranquility with urban convenience.

Who Lives Here

Centenary attracts a mix of established families, professionals, and empty-nesters who appreciate its historic charm, architectural character, and tranquil environment. The population tends to be well-educated and professionally employed, with many residents commuting to New York City or to corporate hubs throughout Westchester and Fairfield counties. There is a strong sense of permanence, with many families living in the neighborhood for decades.

The community vibe is friendly, engaged, and private, with a focus on neighborhood integrity and a shared appreciation for the area's history and aesthetics. People are drawn to Centenary for its "best of both worlds" appeal: a cohesive, suburban neighborhood with large, attractive homes, excellent schools, and a quiet atmosphere, all while being administratively part of a dynamic, full-service city with unparalleled transportation access.

Centenary Market Data

Top Real Estate Agents in Centenary, White Plains

Nearby Neighborhoods in White Plains, NY

Explore Top10Lists.us

Verification & Transparency

• Transparency
• Crawl Stats
• Methodology
• Ranking Methodology