A growing hub in Central Texas for government jobs and travel sports
Gatesville, the government seat of Coryell County, is home to approximately 16,000 sporty residents with few degrees of separation from government. Although roughly 30 miles north of the nation's largest active-duty military base, the state government is actually Gatesville's largest employer due to several correctional facilities closer to town, not to mention public schools and Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), which each employ thousands of residents. With its well-insulated job market and relatively affordable home prices, Gatesville is poised to grow alongside its burgeoning travel sports tourism sector. "We're seeing the park traffic picking up," says Parks and Recreation Director Seth Phillips. "There's more people coming here. Businesses are wanting to come here. And just last night at the council meeting, they approved a 55-plus community that's going to come to our community soon. So, it's growing. It's definitely growing."
Traditional ranch homes can be found all throughout Gatesville.
The Linda Woodman State Jail employs many of Gatesvilles residents.
1/2
Military, public sector and manufacturing jobs aplenty
Aside from public sector jobs, manufacturing jobs at Kalyn Seibert and Laerdal form the second-largest workforce in Gatesville, followed by healthcare jobs at Coryell Health. Some residents commute out of the city, either to Fort Cavazos or nearby hub cities like Waco. U.S. Highway 84 forms Gatesville's primary connection with Waco 38 miles east. State Highway 36 is the primary north-south route, connecting with Temple 35 miles southeast. Gatesville is actively investing in its infrastructure, including road improvements at low water crossings, bridge replacements and new signage, plus additional upgrades to city services. "One example is our planned resolution for increased sewer capacity on the south side of town," says city officials Holly Owens and Bradfort Hunt. "The main goal is to focus on sustainable development, both residential and commercial, to ensure long-term viability and to maintain the historical charm Gatesville has to offer."
Gatesville is just a few miles North of Fort Cavazos.
Highway 36 runs right through Gatesville, Texas.
1/2
Downtown rehabs alongside newer and established subdivisions
Buyers coming from Waco and Temple are enticed by a comparably lower median single-family home price of $242,000. Development is occurring fast as established homes in the downtown area get renovated while new subdivisions keep cropping up all over town. Newer and established subdivisions alike, such as Cedar Bluff and Greenbrier Estates, tend to be outside of the city. Further out are numerous land plots typically ranging from $8,000 to $25,000 per acre.
Downtown beautification and park upgrades help attract travel sports tourism
In 2024, Gatesville leaders applied to make the city's downtown a state-recognized historic district – a major step in the ongoing revitalization process. Cleanups and beautification projects, like those done by Keep Gatesville Beautiful, have helped breathe some life back into the central square of businesses and museums surrounding a historic courthouse. East of that, Main Street continues with businesses like Mexican cantinas and thrift stores, as well as some supermarkets like H-E-B. The far east side of town has seen numerous hotels pop up in the last few years alongside improvements at the city's sports complex next door, which hosts many competitions throughout the year, attracting out-of-towners who come to visit downtown attractions between games.
Sports complex upgrades make rec sports more accessible
Upgrades to shading, sidewalks and lighting at Lions Club Park's sports complex have made the city's ever-popular rec sports matches a more comfortable experience. "We host a baseball and softball league that normally has around 600 kids," Phillips says. "We host youth soccer, and normally, it has around 500 kids. And we host youth flag football, which has around 200 kids." The city is also restoring Faunt Le Roy Park after a major flood in 2024. "It did some major damage to the banks, it messed up the electricity down there, it messed up the plumbing, the restroom facilities – all that was under water," Phillips says.
Lions Club Park offers 6 different baseball fields to pick from.
Enjoy the sunny days of Gatesville at one of the many parks.
1/2
Community mixers and holiday Boozaar's
Small events and programs happen all throughout the week, including mystery book clubs at the local public library and community meet and greets. Larger events happen around major holidays like Halloween, when the city hosts its annual Boozaar downtown, featuring a trick-or-treating trail and costume contest. A Christmas tree lighting ceremony is also a popular annual tradition with downtown crowds.
Welcome to the central Texas city of Gatesville.
The City of Gatesville City Hall and Municipal Court is located right on East Main Street.
1/2
Career and technical education available at Gatesville ISD
The city is zoned for Gatesville ISD, which has a B-minus Niche rating and serves roughly 2,700 students across 5 schools. The district runs a number of specialty programs, including individual and specialized instruction, and a career and technical education program offering industry certifications in welding, veterinary sciences, agriculture and more.
Gatesville Elementary School is highly rated.
The Hornets represent the Gatesville High School.
1/2
Riverine flooding and water conservation
Gatesville's climate is prone to occasional tornados and summer heat that frequently exceeds 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot, dry summers commonly lead to droughts, which elevate the likelihood of other hazards like wildfires and flash floods on the Leon River. Thus, water conservation is a central part of life in Gatesville, but according to Owens and Hunt, the city retains "enough water rights to allow for many sustainable years of growth in housing and commercial development. That said, we are always cautious with the water supply, and we consider potential impacts with each submission for development."
FBI data shows declining rates of property and violent crime in Gatesville. Although there was a recent spike in robberies in 2023, the rate has since declined back below state and national figures.
Written By
Tom Jakob
Photography Contributed By
Wyatt Stueve
Video By
Logan Cox
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Amanda Nuckles,
an experienced agent in this area.
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
This inviting home features 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms one with a walk in shower, offering comfort and convenience. The large living area provides plenty of space for relaxation or entertaining, with a cozy dining nook just off the kitchen. The upgraded kitchen boasts brand-new appliances, a walk-in pantry (9x6) with abundant shelving, and a dedicated laundry area with electric
Experience the tranquility of small town living in Central Texas in this charming 2400 square foot country chic modern farmhouse sitting on 5 acres. This 2-story farmhouse is a true gem, featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, a huge living room that offers endless possibilities. This is a custom home, with each detail meticulously thought out and crafted, such as granite countertops, up lighting, huge
Discover your own Texas paradise on this stunning 29.692± acre property, ideally located at the prominent corner of Hwy 36 and CR 360 in Gatesville. Enjoy the perfect blend of serene country living with unbeatable convenience, only 20 minutes from Temple, about 1.5 hours from Fort Worth, just an hour from Austin. Utilities are already in place or easily accessible, making the building process
This is a great place to build a great subdivision or have a large piece of land in town to build a great place. The property can hold 7 lots in one track. Owner financing option available.
Welcome to a one-of-a-kind ranch-style estate where space, style, and versatility come together on 1.77 acres in South Mountain. With a total of 4,244 sq. ft. between the main home and pool house, this property is designed to adapt to the way you live—whether that means entertaining, working from home, or creating the ultimate escape. The 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath main home offers warm, timeless
Opportunity Acres! If you're searching for exceptional value in rural property, don't pass up seeing this perfect blend of seclusion and natural beauty with this 14.7-acre property, located estimated 15 minutes Southwest of Gatesville, TX (near the King community). Hidden away down a long winding, paved driveway, mostly wooded property offers unmatched privacy, wildlife, and quite peace of mind.
Over 18 acres with great views on this amazing property. There is so much potential for this property to include building or grazing. Only 15 minutes from Gatesville and 20 minutes from Copperas Cove and approx. 40 minutes from Waco, Temple & Killeen. Owner finance terms available.
This residential lot is ready to be the blank canvas you are looking for. With ample space and endless possibilities, it's the ideal location to build your home, investment property or storage.
Build your dream home with breathtaking views on this stunning 25.47 acre property near Gatesville, Texas. Just 10 minutes from town, this exceptional Central Texas homesite offers sweeping panoramic vistas, elevated building locations, and privacy of wide open country living, while still having convenience. Property is also within an hour of Waco and Temple, or a couple to Austin. The land
Escape the city lights with this peaceful 7.210-acre lot outside of city limits! This property sits at the end of a cul-de-sac, has a beautiful view, and is halfway between Copperas Cove and Gatesville. Whether you are looking to build a custom home, create a private weekend retreat, or simply invest in land, this property offers endless possibilities with no restrictions! Mobile homes are ok.
Discover this well-maintained quadplex located in a peaceful Gatesville neighborhood. Each of the four units includes 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and approximately 1,088 sq. ft. of living space. The two-story townhome layout includes a full-size kitchen, comfortable living area, and a convenient first-floor bedroom. Every unit has its own private backyard and covered patio, creating a sense of
Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, 104 Short Circuit offers a rare opportunity to own a peaceful piece of rural Gatesville. This property features a cozy tiny home—perfect as a weekend getaway, creative studio, or transitional living space. Please note: the tiny home is not currently connected to water, making this an ideal project for buyers ready to customize and complete the setup
Property Id: 1643501Fully renovated 3BR, 2BA home on a spacious 1/3-acre lot, just minutes from the city center! This modern, move-in ready home features a sleek, updated kitchen with brand-new appliances, two beautifully renovated bathrooms, and three bedrooms, including a master suite with an en-suite bath. Enjoy abundant natural light throughout. The large, flat yard offers plenty of
Property Id: 2091731Be the first to live in this brand new 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in a safe and quiet neighborhood of Gatesville. The unit features new standard kitchen appliances and a newly built bathroom with modern finishes, offering convenience and comfort for everyday living. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends! Enjoy the great location—just a
Property Id: 2091737Be the first to live in this brand new 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in a safe and quiet neighborhood of Gatesville. The unit features new standard kitchen appliances and a newly built bathroom with modern finishes, offering convenience and comfort for everyday living. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends! Enjoy the great location—just a
Property Id: 2091732Be the first to live in this brand new 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in a safe and quiet neighborhood of Gatesville. The unit features new standard kitchen appliances and a newly built bathroom with modern finishes, offering convenience and comfort for everyday living. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends! Enjoy the great location—just a
Property Id: 2091739DescriptionBe the first to live in this brand new 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in a safe and quiet neighborhood of Gatesville. The unit features new standard kitchen appliances and a newly built bathroom with modern finishes, offering convenience and comfort for everyday living. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends! Enjoy the great
Property Id: 2091730Be the first to live in this brand new 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in a safe and quiet neighborhood of Gatesville. The unit features new standard kitchen appliances and a newly built bathroom with modern finishes, offering convenience and comfort for everyday living. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends! Enjoy the great location—just a
Property Id: 2091733Be the first to live in this brand new 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in a safe and quiet neighborhood of Gatesville. The unit features new standard kitchen appliances and a newly built bathroom with modern finishes, offering convenience and comfort for everyday living. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends! Enjoy the great location—just a
Property Id: 2276568Welcome to 203 Mesa Drive in Gatesville, Texas! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home delivers modern comfort and a wide array of desirable features. Step inside to discover fresh paint throughout and stunning new granite countertops paired with brand new stainless steel appliances, including a refrigerator, in the kitchen. The home is alarm-ready for your
Property Id: 2091736Be the first to live in this brand new 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in a safe and quiet neighborhood of Gatesville. The unit features new standard kitchen appliances and a newly built bathroom with modern finishes, offering convenience and comfort for everyday living. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends! Enjoy the great
Property Id: 2091738Be the first to live in this brand new 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in a safe and quiet neighborhood of Gatesville. The unit features new standard kitchen appliances and a newly built bathroom with modern finishes, offering convenience and comfort for everyday living. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends! Enjoy the great location—just a
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the 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.
