Harker Heights is a suburban city just east of Killeen with a short commute to the U.S. Army’s Fort Cavazos, a major regional employer. But convenience to the base isn’t the only thing the city has to offer — there are plenty of local amenities, community parks and highly rated schools. “Although it’s technically a small city, Harker Heights has a small-town atmosphere and a much slower pace of life than other cities in central Texas,” says Realtor Tisha Holder of The Agents Premiere Realty Group who has worked in real estate in Central Texas for the past 6 years. Harker Heights is a fast-growing city. It’s home to just over 33,000 residents — nearly double what the city’s population was in 2000. Like much of the region, the city experiences hot, humid weather in the summer and mild weather in the winter months.
A steady real estate market
The median home price in Harker Heights is around $300,000, and the average home spends about 62 days on the market. Homes in the central and northern parts of the city are typically less expensive than those in the southern area, where subdivisions have been built along the shores of Stillhouse Hollow Lake and Dana Peak Park. “The area caters to many budgets because people can get more square footage for their dollar,” Holder says. The streetscape throughout the city has a recognizable Central Texas flare, with grass yards and patches of oak trees that have been slightly faded by the dry climate. Ranch-style and Mission Revival homes with white stucco and limestone exteriors are a common sight here.
West Belton's homes shine with unique colors and creative designs, setting them apart.
Modern new builds in Belton, Texas, just minutes from the downtown square.
Harker Heights has new custom builds located in the Cedar Ridge subdivision.
Harker Heights is a city in Bell County, Texas near Killeen.
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Getting around Harker Heights
Interstate 14 cuts through the center of Harker Heights, a major local highway that connects with Killeen, about 5 miles west of the city. It’s also the way to Fort Cavazos, which is about 10 miles away in the northern part of Killeen. The city is served by the Hill County Transit District, which operates regional bus lines known as The HOP. There are two fixed-route bus lines that run through Harker Heights. The nearest major city is Austin, about 71 miles south, while Fort Worth is about 143 miles to the north. The Killeen Regional Airport is a joint-use military and commercial airport about 15 miles away.
Shopping and dining close to home
Much of Harker Heights’ restaurants and shopping options are along the Central Texas Expressway, which has chain restaurants and retail options. One of the major shopping centers in the city is the Market Heights mall. This expansive shopping center has dozens of chain retailers and restaurants. For everything else, Killeen is just a few miles away and has plenty of shopping plazas and an indoor mall.
Beemarosa Vineyard & Winery, Belton's hidden gem for wine lovers.
Harker Heights' shopping scene includes well-known chain retailers and eateries.
Enjoy coffee at AR•U•SHA, a charming spot in downtown Belton.
Black Bear Diner is family dining that offers great food in a fun, bear-themed atmosphere.
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An abundance of green spaces and Belton Lake
Harker Heights has around 180 acres of green space around the city, mixed between neighborhood pocket parks and larger municipal parks. According to the Trust for Public Land, 57% of residents are within a 10 minute walk of a park. In addition to that, the city is about 13 miles from Belton Lake and 7 miles from Stillhouse Hollow Lake. Both lakes have several parks surrounding them, filled with walking trails and boat ramps for waterside activities.
Nearby Dana Peak Park is a fun place to get away.
People flock to Dana Peak Park for picnics, water fun and sun.
Stillhouse Park in Belton, Texas, offers a variety of outdoor recreational amenities.
Take the dogs for a walk through Yettie Polk Park in East Belton.
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Local vendors and good food at the Harker Heights farmers market
Residents celebrate the holiday season during Frost Fest at Harker Heights Community Park, a local festival with vendors, live music and food trucks. When fall rolls around, Harker Heights hosts a weekly farmers market at city hall that’s lined with local vendors.
Friday night lights at Harker Heights High School
Students attend schools in the Killeen Independent School District, which holds a B rating from Niche. The district spans several central Texas cities, with over 44,000 students in six high schools, 12 middle schools and 31 elementary schools. At Harker Heights High School, a 6A school, football is king. Everyone shows up to cheer on the Knights under the Friday night lights.
Nolan Middle is a public school located in Killeen, TX, which is in a mid-size city setting.
Harker Heights Elementary is a public elementary school within the Killeen I.S.D.
Students within Belton can play for sports teams at Belton High School.
Harker Heights High School is an above average, public school.
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Below-average crime rates
According to FBI stats, over the past five years, Harker Heights has reported violent and property crime rates well below the state and national averages. Despite having a lower crime rate, the police department reported an increase in property crimes and a lower number of violent crimes from 2023 to 2022.
Written By
Robert Breckenridge
Photography Contributed By
Jack Schafer
Video By
Dan Mack
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Dawn Weller,
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
On average, homes in Harker Heights, TX sell after 72 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Harker Heights, TX over the last 12 months is $300,000, down 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Beautiful Home Near Dana Peak with Pool, Hot Tub, and Solar Panels!Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home located near the peaceful and scenic Lake Dana Peak. Nestled on a desirable corner lot, this spacious property offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience.Enjoy two generous living areas and two dining spaces—ideal for entertaining or creating cozy family
Your Dream Home Awaits at 3920 Hickory View, Harker Heights, TX Welcome to a luxurious retreat that balances comfort, convenience, and endless possibilities. Nestled in the desirable Quail Estates neighborhood, this property isn’t just a house; it’s the setting for your next chapter. Spacious Living Area: Boasting over 3,300 square feet of living space with high vaulted ceilings, this home is
Owner has assumable loan of 2.99. This charming home, located on the outskirts of Harker Heights is an ideal home for still desire quick access to highways, shopping, businesses and still want to enjoy nature. The beautifully renovated eat-in kitchen boasts concrete countertops, shiplap accents, and stylish tile flooring. The flex room is right off the kitchen has a lovely picture window
Welcome to this meticulously maintained two-story home, offering a harmonious blend of comfort and elegance. Situated on a generous 1/2-acre lot, this residence boasts 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms and 2 living areas. The expansive primary suite is thoughtfully positioned on the first floor for added privacy and convenience. It features a luxurious en-suite bathroom complete with a
Beautiful Home Near Dana Peak with Pool, Hot Tub, and Solar Panels!Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home located near the peaceful and scenic Lake Dana Peak. Nestled on a desirable corner lot, this spacious property offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience.Enjoy two generous living areas and two dining spaces—ideal for entertaining or creating cozy family
DESIGNED WITH BUILDERS IN MIND. Welcome to the epitome of spacious lots! NOW AVAILABLE! Up to 3.5 acres lots, ready to build on with lake view surroundings. Located in a prime location in Belton, right off FM 2410! No more subdivision living!! Portions of the subdivision are located in gated community. Exterior lighted walking trails, cabanas for entertaining, retention pond with gorgeous water
Harker Heights Family Home - Texas Living Made SimpleThis 2,846 square foot home in Harker Heights offers four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, giving your family plenty of room to enjoy.Corner lot with fully fenced yard provides both privacy and outdoor space. The open floor plan connects living areas, making entertaining easy and family time more connected.The primary bedroom is
*AVAILABLE JUNE 3RD!!!*Come and look at this lovely 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath Townhome in Harker Heights. This property has a spacious living area, standard kitchen appliances, a private split backyard, utility room and storage space. This property is pet friendly, allowing 1 small dog 25lbs or less with a $400 non-refundable pet fee. This property is allowing HUD and Roommates. This property DOES NOT
Experience the wonders of The Laramie at Warriors Path, where you can discover a unique community nestled in the heart of Harker Heights, TX. Tour our beautiful 3 bedroom 2 bath single story homes and our 3 bedroom 2.5 bath townhomes- both of which feature a one car garage. Stop by for a tour today!
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