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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Video By
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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. Can subdivide! 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
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.
Well-maintained quadplex located at 106 Bluebonnet Street in Gatesville, Texas. This fully occupied multifamily property features four spacious units, each offering approximately 1,088 square feet with a 3-bedroom, 2-bath floor plan, full kitchen, comfortable living area, and a convenient first-floor bedroom. Designed with tenant comfort in mind, each unit includes a private fenced backyard and
Adorable 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom brick home located in the desirable Eastview Addition on the edge of the Gatesville city limits! Built in 1985, this charming property features a low-maintenance masonry construction on a solid slab foundation.Inside, you will find a highly functional, one-level layout. The spacious combined living area flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining spaces, making
Check out this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering 2,054 square feet of living space on 4 scenic acres just outside of Gatesville. This property is the perfect blend of modern updates and peaceful country living. Inside, you’ll find a fully refreshed interior featuring new flooring, fresh paint, amazing color selections, and newly remodeled bathrooms. The kitchen has been fabulously
Located on the greens of the Gatesville Country Club, this 3-bedroom, 3-bath home offers over 3,000 square feet of living space and exceptional potential. The spacious layout features an open-concept kitchen that flows seamlessly into the living area, complete with a wood-burning stove that adds warmth and character. Generous square footage provides flexibility for a variety of living and
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.
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.
94.8 Acres of Scenic Central Texas Ranch Land with Leon River Frontage – Outside Gatesville City LimitsIf you are searching for scenic Central Texas property with live water, beautiful terrain, and endless possibilities, this impressive 94.8-acre ranch deserves a look. Conveniently located near Waco, Temple, Fort Hood, Killeen, Copperas Cove, and only about an hour from Austin, this
96± acres of Central Texas land where rolling hills, mature hardwoods, and open pasture come together in one of the region's most versatile tracts. With approximately 1,300 feet of county road frontage and infrastructure already in place, this property is ready to work for you from day one, whether as a private recreational escape, a working ranch, or a strategic 1031 exchange investment. LAND
Well-maintained quadplex located at 106 Bluebonnet Street in Gatesville, Texas. This fully occupied multifamily property features four spacious units, each offering approximately 1,088 square feet with a 3-bedroom, 2-bath floor plan, full kitchen, comfortable living area, and a convenient first-floor bedroom. Designed with tenant comfort in mind, each unit includes a private fenced backyard and
Property Id: 2091733Brand 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 5-minute drive to local
Property Id: 2091735Brand 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 5-minute drive to local
Property Id: 2091734Brand 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 5-minute drive to local
Property Id: 2091737Brand 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 5-minute drive to local
A welcoming 3 bed 2 bath home with pleasant surroundings. This property is fenced with security gate. 2 Acres of open space next to the property to enjoy your morning walk or play with your pet.
Energy-Efficient 3-Bedroom Home with Fenced Yard – Coming Soon | GatesvilleWelcome to 114 Oak Lane Drive, Gatesville, TX, a well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering comfort, space, and energy efficiency. This property features a functional layout with inviting living areas and nicely sized bedrooms, perfect for everyday living.One of the standout features is the solar panel
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in the charming town of Gatesville, TX. This residence offers a spacious and inviting layout, ideal for anyone seeking a serene living environment. With ample natural light flowing through large windows, each room feels bright and airy, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The open-concept living
Discover this Gatesville, TX apartment offering flexible 2- and 3-bedroom floor plans and two full bathrooms. Kitchens include black appliances, and baths feature shower/tub combinations for practical daily use. The layout provides comfortable living space with options to match your needs in a convenient location in Gatesville.
HOUSING CLIENTS ACCEPTED!MOVE IN RENT SPECIAL!!!Signed leases for a LIMITED TIME will receive a $200 Visa gift card upon move in.Act fast— this opportunity won't last!Looking for small-town charm with everyday convenience? Welcome to 106 C. Lark St, a great rental opportunity in the heart of Gatesville! This home offers a functional layout, bright living spaces,
Discover your perfect retreat in the heart of Gatesville, TX! This charming apartment with two spacious bedrooms and a well-appointed bathroom, this residence is designed for convenience and relaxation. The inviting layout maximizes space, providing a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding after a long day.The exterior features a well-maintained yard, ideal for enjoying the
COUNTRY LIVING AT ITS FINEST LEVITA AREA Discover your new sanctuary in this beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, perfect for those seeking comfort and convenience. Step inside to find a spacious living area that welcomes you with an abundance of natural light, ideal for relaxation or entertaining. The modern kitchen features ample counter space and is equipped with essential
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