Tucked in Central Texas, near the halfway point between Waco and Austin, Belton is a steadily growing part of Bell County. The city of about 23,000 has a growing appeal due to its location near Belton and Stillhouse Hollow lakes and its commuting convenience to several major cities. “It’s a real homey kind of town. If you have a family, absolutely an ideal place to raise kids because there are so many activities and things to do,” says Mary Jane Roach, a broker and owner of Mary Jane Roach Realty, who grew up in the Temple area. The city’s location near Fort Cavazos, formerly Fort Hood, has contributed to its growing population. Fort Cavazos, along with the county government and the healthcare industry in neighboring Temple, are all major employers in the area, and the city’s ease of commuting makes it easy for residents to get to and from each neighboring city.
Belton, Texas, is known for its rich history, including its role as a stagecoach stop.
Belton Lake extends into both Bell County and Coryell County.
Belton is located almost halfway between Austin and Waco.
South Belton has tidy homes on wide, well manicured lots.
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Belton Lake and an abundance of city greenspaces
Belton has 20 municipal parks that total around 260 acres. Over half of the residents in the city live within a 10-minute walk of a walk, according to the Trust for Public Land. The city’s 5-year master plan for parks in the city placed importance on expanding Belton’s trail system as well as improvements to athletic fields throughout the city. In addition to the many parks around Belton, the city is near Stillhouse Hollow Lake and Belton Lake. Both lakes have a handful of recreation areas and boat ramps for waterfront activities. “That’s kind of the vibe that Belton has. If you just want to get outside, there are a lot of places to do it. All of the hiking and biking and lake activities,” Roach says.
Belton Lake at Temple Park is fun for summertime cookouts.
Stillhouse Hollow Lake is a 6,430-acre lake that is located 8 miles south west of Belton.
Observe diverse bird species in the tranquil setting of Nolan Creek's shores in Belton..
Liberty Park in sits on the Leon River just southeast of downtown Belton.
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Cowboys from all over come to Belton for the 4th of July rodeo
Belton’s 4th of July celebration brings in thousands of Texans each year, starting with a street party in the downtown area the weekend before. The weekend-long celebration includes a mile-long parade, live music and other family-friendly fun and games, followed by a multi-day PRCA Rodeo hosted at the Cadence Bank Center. When winter time rolls around, Belton hosts Christmas on the Chisholm Trail, which starts with a festive parade and performances from Belton ISD school choirs and ensembles. Though the annual events bring in folks from neighboring cities, residents can head downtown throughout the year to check out the area’s history at the Bell County Museum. The Beltonian Theatre originally opened its doors in 1922 and recently received a historic landmark designation after its 100-year anniversary.
The historic Beltonian Theatre opened it's doors in 1922.
Discover the Bell County Museum, situated at the former Belton library in downtown.
Shopping in downtown Belton can lead to unique finds and fun adventures.
Explore a world of creativity at the Bell County Museum's captivating art gallery.
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Downtown Belton
Much of Belton’s restaurant scene is in its downtown area around Central Avenue. In addition to local spots like Miller’s Smokehouse, which sells pit barbecue and craft beers, there are a number of shops and local businesses around. “The downtown area borders Nolan Creek, so there’s a lot of activities and restaurants around the water,” Roach says. The downtown area’s Cochran Blair & Potts has stood tall in the community for over 150 years, selling everything from boots and clothes to dry goods and gifts. There are more options on or around Belton’s Main Street, where shopping centers have stores like Walmart or H-E-B.
Miller's Smokehouse in Belton, Texas, is a BBQ lover's paradise.
Step back in time while shopping at Cochran Blair & Potts department store in downtown Belton.
There are plenty of great restaurants along Nolan Creek in downtown Belton.
Grab a specialty coffee at Arusha Coffee & Tea.
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Historic homes and new builds
Belton’s housing varies from early 20th-century builds to luxury estates near Belton Lake. There’s also a fair share of duplexes, townhomes and condos. The median price for homes is around $350,000. Plots of land throughout Belton can start as low as $11,000 but can cost up to $260,000 for waterfront lots. The city has its share of distinct neighborhoods like Riverplace Estates, noted for its spacious estates near Belton Lake. Belton has several historic districts, many of which with homes and buildings built in the late 1800s or early 1900s. Most of the historic homes are around the downtown area, and homes there are closer to the city median, whereas lakefront homes can sell anywhere from $700,000 to multi-millions.
Large custom built homes are common in North Belton.
Modern new builds in Belton, Texas, just minutes from the downtown square.
Explore South Belton's, master-planned communities teeming with beautiful trees.
Some historic homes in Belton were built in the early 1900's.
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Belton Independent School District and the University of Mary-Hardin Baylor
The Belton Independent School District is rated as the second-best school district in Bell County according to Niche with an A-minus score. The district has over 13,000 students spread over three high schools, four middle schools and 11 elementary schools. After graduation, students have several universities to choose from. The University of Mary-Hardin-Baylor is the oldest operating college in Texas, teaching students since 1845. This faith-based university has a student-faculty ratio of 17-to-1 and an array of programs. “It’s a pillar in the community. They have a lot of strong programs,” Roach says. There are more options nearby in Temple, which is home to Temple College and the Texas Bioscience Institute. In addition to public schools, there are several private school options as well.
Sparta Elementary is a public school within the Belton ISD.
Students living in Belton, Texas, may attend Belton Middle School.
Students within Belton can play for sports teams at Belton High School.
Achieve your goals at the University of Mary Hardin Baylor.
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In the heart of Central Texas
Belton’s location in the heart of Central Texas is another draw for residents. The city is about 60 miles from Austin and 43 miles from Waco, both accessible by Interstate 35. However, other major metro areas like Dallas or Houston aren’t that far either. “You can see the state of Texas from this location. It’s just so close to everything. To me, that’s a real drawing point of the area,” Roach says. The Hill County Transit District oversees the HOP, a public transit system that has several stops in Belton. Military personnel heading to Fort Cavazos are 22 miles away and can use Interstate 14 to get there.
I-35 makes for easy traveling to Austin of Dallas.
Nolan Creek skirts around downtown Belton offering scenic views.
Bell County Courthouse building was designed in the Renaissance Revival style in 1884.
Read up on the history of the city at the Belton Library.
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Important to know
Over the past 5 years, Belton has reported violent and property crime rates on par with the state and country averages, according to FBI statistics.
Belton, like most Central Texas areas, experiences hot and humid summers, while winters are usually mild. The city has a steady flow of rainfall throughout the year, and though it isn’t in tornado alley, there are strong thunderstorms occasionally. Though some homes are near Belton Lake, there isn’t a big risk of flooding.
There are many bridge crossings over parts of Belton Lake.
Crime rates in Belton are on par with the state averages.
Enjoy a morning walk at Chalk Ridge Park in Belton, with paved trails and stunning scenery.
Belton has it share of strong thunderstorms.
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Written By
Robert Breckenridge
Photography Contributed By
Leigh Christian
Video By
Anthony Pesa
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kirk Regian,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Belton, TX sell after 83 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Belton, TX over the last 12 months is $323,415, down 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this spacious and beautifully designed home in the coveted Three Creeks community of Belton! Built in 2020, this impressive residence offers over 3,200 square feet of thoughtful living space and sits on a generous half-acre lot. With 7 bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms, this home provides versatile space for families of all sizes, guest suites, home offices, playrooms, and more. Step
Stunning Lake Belton Retreat on just under 1 Acre Near Belton Lake! Welcome to this beautifully updated 4,000 sq ft home nestled on a spacious lot on Belton Lake. This exceptional property offers the perfect blend of privacy, luxury, and functionality. A gated circular drive leads to a sprawling front yard, creating an impressive arrival and ample parking for guests. The home features a 3-car
Step into comfort and convenience with this inviting Belton home designed for modern living. From the moment you enter, you’re welcomed by an open and airy layout that connects the living, dining, and kitchen spaces perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying time at home. The kitchen offers plenty of storage and workspace, ideal for daily use or hosting gatherings. The primary suite serves as a
Why build custom when you can buy custom? Skip the stress of construction and move right into this beautifully built home at 1007 Saddle Bluff. Located in the prestigious Mill Creek Golf Community in the charming village of Salado, Texas, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers comfort, space, and quality throughout. You’ll love the updated RidgeCore flooring installed throughout the home (March
Warm and inviting, this home is perfectly situated in a prime location within the highly sought after Belton ISD. With over 2,100 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, this 4 bedroom, 3 bath home, including a jack and jill layout, offers comfort, charm, and plenty of room to spread out and settle in. Step inside to soaring ceilings and an abundance of natural light pouring in through
Backyard resort. Fully updated systems. Premier back-of-neighborhood location—this is the one buyers wait for, now offered at an exceptional value. Just reduced $80K—creating a rare opportunity to own one of the most upgraded, best-positioned homes in River Place Estates. Not all homes here are created equal—and the moment you step onto this property, you’ll understand why. Tucked at the very
Welcome to this beautifully upgraded 4-bedroom, 2-bath home located in the highly desirable West Temple area. From the moment you walk in, you'll notice the thoughtful cosmetic upgrades that truly set this home apart from many others in the neighborhood. The main living areas feature durable faux wood tile flooring, while the living room showcases stunning faux ceiling beams that add warmth and
This Kasberg custom-built home is tucked into a quiet pocket of the Northwoods neighborhood in bustling Belton. You’ll love the convenience—less than a mile from H-E-B, Walmart Supercenter, the movie theater, and just about every fast-food option you can think of. Now, let’s talk about the home. It sits on a large, attractive lot with beautiful live oaks and other mature trees, all surrounding a
Tucked away on 1.8 acres in Morgan’s Point Resort, this updated home offers a rare combination of privacy, usable space, and a true connection to the outdoors — all just steps from Lake Belton. Set off the road, the property immediately stands apart. A wide front yard, mature trees, and the natural Corps land directly behind create a setting that feels secluded, quiet, and deeply connected to
Rare Opportunity! Exceptional investment opportunity featuring a well-maintained portfolio of seven townhomes being sold as a package. This property offers an attractive unit mix, including three spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5 bath units and four 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath units. Each includes a one car garage, with two units offering two car garages. Interior features open concept layouts, granite
Perched atop a PRIVATE MOUNTAIN with breathtaking PANORAMIC VIEWS, this stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers a rare combination of seclusion, elegance, and modern comfort. From the moment you arrive, the elevated setting and serene surroundings signal that this is something truly special. Step inside, and the home welcomes you with VAULTED CEILINGS that instantly create a sense of grandeur.
Exceptional investment opportunity with this well-maintained fourplex offering a desirable unit mix and modern finishes throughout. Property features two spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath units, each with a 1-car garage, along with two 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath units, each boasting a 2-car garage—appealing to a wide range of tenants. All units showcase stylish white cabinetry, granite countertops, and
Charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home in Belton, TX, offering 950 sq. ft. of cozy, well-laid-out living space. Private driveway and just under 3/4 of an acre-perfect for gardening, pets, or future outdoor projects. The home blends warm, inviting interiors with a compact, efficient floor plan. Natural light fills the living areas while the yard provides a peaceful, private setting away from the street.
Tucked into the sought-after Three Creeks Community, this thoughtfully designed two-story home offers the perfect blend of comfort, flexibility, and standout upgrades. With 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and two spacious living areas, the layout is both functional and inviting. All bedrooms are conveniently located upstairs, creating a private retreat away from the main living spaces. Downstairs, you’ll
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home ideally located just minutes from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and within close proximity to downtown shopping, dining, and entertainment. This inviting property blends classic charm with modern updates, making it perfect for first-time buyers, investors, or anyone seeking convenient living near the heart of the city. Step
3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Belton ISD with a two-car garage plus a detached shop, set on a quiet, tree-covered lot.The home offers a functional layout with hard flooring throughout for easy upkeep. The living area connects to a dedicated dining space and a kitchen featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ample cabinet storage. Plantation shutters throughout add a finished
Gorgeous Rock & Brick Exterior. This 3 Bedroom/ 2 Bath home in Beautiful South Belton is a must see. This home has an open, Split floor plan. master bath has a walk-in spa bathtub. Belton ISD Close to Shopping and Schools. HUD is okay, NO pets and roommates allowed.
This FULLY FURNISHED townhome is designed for someone who values a refined living experience in the heart of Belton. The community pool and spa are just steps away, offering an ease of living that pairs well with the home’s quiet, low-maintenance setting. Inside, the two-story living area makes a strong first impression with its height, natural light, and rich hardwood floors, creating a space
Perched atop a PRIVATE MOUNTAIN with breathtaking PANORAMIC VIEWS, this stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers a rare combination of seclusion, elegance, and modern comfort. From the moment you arrive, the elevated setting and serene surroundings signal that this is something truly special. Step inside, and the home welcomes you with VAULTED CEILINGS that instantly create a sense of grandeur.
2-bedroom, 1-bath unit located in the heart of Belton. Offering 1,148 square feet of living space, this unit provides a spacious layout with comfortable living areas and functional design. Conveniently situated near local shopping, dining, and major roadways, this property offers easy access to everything Belton has to offer while maintaining a quiet residential feel. Ideal for tenants seeking
NOW LEASING! The Crossroads at Belton is a new apartment community offering 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom floor plans. The Crossroads at Belton offers an impressive array of amenities that are designed to enhance your living experience. Take a dip in our sparkling swimming pool on hot summer days or work up a sweat in our fully-equipped fitness center. Our open spaces provide the perfect spot
Welcome to 5821 St. Charles Dr in Belton, Texas, located in the desirable Three Creeks subdivision and zoned to Belton ISD. This spacious and beautifully maintained one-story home offers 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and over 3,067 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. This open-concept floor plan features two expansive living areas, perfect for both entertaining and everyday comfort. The
Upscale accommodations in a beautifully landscaped setting defines our apartment community. With a variety of resident privileges and amenities, you will love your new life at River Springs. Enjoy every moment within this peaceful community convenient to everything in Belton. Experience fine living with new friends in a place tailored to fit your unique demand for luxury and style. With the
Discover this “like new” 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offering a perfect blends of modern style with everyday comfort. Inside is an open floorplan connecting the kitchen, dining, and living areas which is ideal for both relaxing and entertaining. The kitchen has granite countertops, a walk in pantry and an island overlooking the dining and living spaces to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Chappell Oaks offers apartment homes loaded with modern amenities from tiled entries and showers to cathedral style ceilings. You’ll find the luxury and lifestyle you want when you make your next home here with us including curbside trash pick-up, a serene pool, Jacuzzi and outdoor stone fireplace for our community to enjoy.
This spacious 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is waiting for you! From the moment you walk in, you’ll appreciate the spacious livingroom with wood laminate flooring—perfect for both relaxing evenings and entertaining guests. The kitchen features nice cabinetry, ceramic tile flooring and essential appliances. The primary suite provides a private retreat, complete with an en-suite bathroom and a
***COMING SOON*** Welcome to The Preserve at Nolan Creek, a vibrant new living experience just steps away from The University of Mary Hardin Baylor in Belton. Our modern 1, 2, and 3-bedroom units are designed with your convenience in mind, featuring cutting-edge smart home technology like Hi-Speed Wi-Fi , smart locks, thermostat control and more, ensuring you're always connected! Each apartment
In the heart of Central Texas is the City of Belton, with the neighborhood of North Belton sitting along Belton Lake. “I wouldn’t want to live or work anywhere else,” says Paula Golden, Realtor at Covington Real Estate, with 30 years of experience in the area. “The area keeps growing, but it really hasn’t lost the small town, community-centered feel.” The homes reflect that sentiment, with a variety of home styles built throughout the years. The area has plenty of public green spaces, both along the lake and closer to the center of the neighborhood. Nolan Creek weaves through and is used by the city for public events. Also within is an elementary, middle and the oldest high school in the city.
In 1954, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineering created a dam that led to the creation of the 12,300-acre Belton Lake. “My husband and son say it’s some of the best fishing in Texas, and there are bass fishing tournaments here every year,” Golden says. The main attraction of the neighborhood, the lake has beaches, campgrounds and parks scattered along the shores. In Belton Lakeview Park is Frank’s Marina, with a variety of water vehicles for rent. Westcliff Park is comprised of mainly campgrounds on the lake but does have boat ramps and a swimming area. The Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Association, or BLORA, is run by Fort Cavazos but is located outside the base itself. The association has canoe and wakeboard rentals, a paintball course and horseback riding trails.
The neighborhood is a mixture of older ranch-style homes and more recently built New Traditional styles. Ranch-style homes will be lower in price, beginning around $125,000 and reaching up to $499,000. Some outliers can reach up to $1.35 million if they sit along the lakeshore. “Prices have certainly gone up in the past few years with folks moving into town,” Golden says. With the influx of new residents, developers have put together subdivisions of large, new homes sitting on close-together lots. New Traditional homes will be more expensive, starting around $325,000 and gradually increasing to around to $1.35 million for a home on the lake. The price within homes gradually increases as bedrooms, acreage and square footage are added to the properties.
Belton hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a community-wide service project in April. Family, Fishin’ & Fun takes place along the Nolan Creek in December. The creek is stocked with rainbow trout provided by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Rainbow Trout Program. There are multiple fishing tournaments that take place around the lake.
Along FM 439 is Fire Street Pizza. Originally a food truck, the premise has grown to include an outdoor venue section, including a playground for children. Bingham Marine Texas is a boat dealership with new and used boats. They also provide servicing and customization. Downtown Belton showcases brunch at Water Street Waffle Company, with murals of musicians filling the walls and waffles stacked with eggs and breakfast meats. Miller’s Smokehouse is open for breakfast until 10:55 a.m., but the smokehouse portion is only open until the meat runs out. Along North Main Street are chain stores Walmart Supercenter and H-E-B plus!, along with local restaurant Taqueria Mexicano Grill & Bar #13.
Most children can begin at Sparta Elementary School, which is graded an A-minus by Niche. Students can then move to Belton Middle School, with a B, and then Belton High School, with an A-minus. The Belton New Tech @Waskow was originally part of Belton High School as a specialized program before splitting off to be its own school in 2021. It earns a grade of A-minus from Niche as well. Students must apply to attend this high school.
Interstates 14 and 35 converge in the city of Belton. I-35 is a major north-south interstate. Hill Country Transit District operates a small public transportation system known as The Hop. Similar to on-demand car services like Uber, residents can request rides via an app. The closest hospital is in Belton, the Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Temple.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Belton Has More Owners
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
26
Median Rent
$1,812
Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,949
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$2,150
Median Townhouse Rent
$1,725
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$1,600
Median Condo Rent
$2,803
Median 1 Bedroom Condo Rent
$850
Demographics
Total Population
30,278
Median Age
34
Population under 18
27.2%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
14.6%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$73,480
Below the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$96,075
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
83.4%
Below the national average
89%
College Graduates
25.9%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
10.3%
% Population in Labor Force
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
38''
Average Winter Low Temperature
36°F
Average Summer High Temperature
95°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Somewhat friendly
Bike Score®®
30/ 100
Not friendly
Walk Score®®
0/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
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.
