Centerville: The city with a name that was derived from the fact that it was halfway between the cities of Bountiful and Farmington -- that proves just how original and creative those who named the city in 1850 really were.
Centerville, though nowhere near one of the oldest cities in America, has a history so rich that it's undoubtedly played a part in the constant population expansion that has occurred there since the end of the Great Depression. With a relatively high percentage of residents opting to purchase their homes or trying to find an apartment that's rent to own, it's quite obvious that once people get here, they usually want to stay.
Moving to Centerville
You would think that, if given the choice between two cities, the one whose city center was closest to the Great Salt Lake would be called Salt Lake City. Alas, you'd be wrong; it's called Centerville. Don't complain too much, though, if you're considering moving to the city. After all, it has a violent crime rate that's over six times lower than Utah in general. Oh, and when compared with its nearby big brother Salt Lake City? Over 21 times lower. If you ever manage to find another quiet community that's this safe yet still close to a major city, you're likely looking at a page on Centerville without realizing it.
When to Start Looking
When you're looking for apartments or rental homes in Centerville, you definitely want to start looking at least two to three months in advance. It may be the crime rate, the historical features or just the pleasant people in the city; but regardless of what it is, this place is excessively popular. In fact, nearly 87% of all residents in Centerville are either purchasing or already owning their homes. Seriously, with a rate that high, you've got to know that people love this place. Don't worry too much, though; renters still make up over 13% of the population. This means you won't be alone, but it also means that you need to jump on your new dream home, even if it's only one of the studio apartments in the area, as soon as you find it.
When to Make the Move
There are multiple factors to consider when deciding to make a move to Centerville. In reality, though, you should forget about all of them. There's literally so few property rentals to go around that you should legitimately take a shot immediately if you find a place you love. Otherwise, you might just end up crashing on a friend's sofa after a more expedient person swoops in and grabs your new home. If you do have the luxury of time, however, you may want to avoid the winter. Average low temperatures are in the lower 20's for 75% of the season. Additionally, you don't want to catch the traffic in mid-January due to the Sundance Film Festival. Oh, did we mention the Sundance Film Festival is held 16 minutes away in Salt Lake City? Because it is.
What to Bring Along
With so many people opting to purchase their homes and potential tenants climbing over each other for a chance at an apartment or home, you need to make sure that you stand above the rest. No, this doesn't mean put on your favorite pair of platform shoes -- and why do you even have those? In reality, bringing along much more than the essentials, like the application and fees, can go a long way. If you hand over references from prior landlords, a credit check, proof of income and potentially even a background check, you're going to make someone much more comfortable with handing you the keys to their property. Once you've got the place, you can go back to your old self!
Centerville Neighborhoods
Taking up a full six square miles and packed with over 2,400 people for each of those miles, Centerville definitely is loaded with residential areas. In fact, every part of the city has these areas except those that fall into the Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area. That was a mouthful. Don't whine just yet! After all, it's not like you can actually live in an area that's not residential. Add that to the fact that all areas of rental housing are located near other great spots in the city, and you literally have no room to complain.
Northern Centerville: This area is loaded with residential neighborhoods, but there are businesses dispersed throughout as well. Those who move here, though, will likely love the parks. Freedom Hills Park, Smoot Park and Community Park are all within the area.
Central Centerville: The center of... Centerville... is also highly residential, but since it's right next to the downtown area, everything is still accessible from here. No need to drive, either. Though buses go all up and down Main Street, the routes also travel down many side streets. This makes transit in the area a bit more convenient than in Northern Centerville.
Downtown: Downtown Centerville is the only area of the city that has a variety of shops to the west of Interstate 15. That's right, you can get your shop on around here. In addition, the bus service is amazing here. It's easy to walk from any bus stop to any destination, and you've even got a Walmart Supercenter in the area. Jackpot!
Living in Centerville
Sure, having an abundance of areas to choose from and a variety of shops, restaurants and companies, both small and large, nearby is undoubtedly a huge factor in what makes every area in Centerville appealing. Don't write home just yet, though, because there's far more to enjoy about Centerville than just the few neighborhoods could ever describe. In fact, once you recognize all of the great things involved with living in the city, it's likely you'll spend the next few weeks trying to find a way to call Centerville home.
Historical Neighbors
Okay, your neighbors aren't historical. Well, they could be, but that's not the point. There are a variety of homes in the city listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From the William Capener House to the Franklin and Amelia Walton House, history literally surrounds you. In fact, the Barnard-Garn-Barber House was built only a few years after the city's founding.
Variety of Entertainment
Go catch a movie at the Centerpoint Legacy Theatre. Heck, catch one on the IMAX screen. If getting out and being physical is more your style, there are a variety of hunting, water sports and other exciting places for adventures along West Parrish Lane.
A Hop, Skip and Jump to Salt Lake City
One of the greatest parts about living near Salt Lake City, aside from being in a much safer area, is that all of the great parts about the larger city are easily within driving distance. Enjoy the Sundance Film Festival in January. Check out rodeos, parades and a variety of other activities during the 10-day long 'Days of 47' celebration. Enjoy the 10K marathon in July. Case in point, you're well within reach of awesomeness.