Main Street oil town in East Texas, transitioning with new jobs
Twelve retired oil derricks loom over Kilgore's redeveloping downtown, serving as reminders and quasi-mascots for the Main Street city in East Texas. Even after a major Halliburton plant closed for good in 2020, Kilgore and its industrial economy continue to grow as new employers bring more jobs to the city of 13,000. "Our golden age was during the oil boom, so a lot of our buildings and homes were built during that time in the 1930s and ’40s," says Stacey Cole, director of the Kilgore Public Library. "We do try, when we can, to renovate and restore. But sometimes it's just not possible, so we kind of get a mix. But the citizens love the history and the nostalgia."
Kilgore honors its oil history with a small replica of the World's Richest Acre.
An aerial view of Kilgore reveals the vibrant cityscape surrounded by green landscape.
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A diversifying industrial job market and connections with major cities
Today in Kilgore, oil and natural gas companies only claim a portion of the job market, which now leans toward major manufacturers like Yamaha and Wagner Tuning. "We have a very good economic development corporation that is excellent at bringing in new businesses," Cole says. Several major employers, like Orgill and UTZ Chips, sit in Synergy Business Park. "That's another one of our quality-of-life resources because it's got a nice walking trail around a lake," Cole says. Other employers in the area include the school district and Roy H. Laird Memorial Hospital.
Roy Laird Memorial Hospital serves as a vital healthcare resource for the Kilgore community.
Oil jobs remain a key industry driving Kilgore's economy and growth.
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Downtown redevelopment includes rehabs and new builds
The median price for a single-family home in Kilgore is around $267,500, below the median price in the larger city of Longview, about 12 miles away. Options include new builds, rehabs of oil boom-era properties, slab homes and a number of empty lots. Kilgore is seeing historical preservation alongside real estate development, thanks largely to the Texas Main Street City program. Downtown redevelopment leaves some established homes to renovate and empty spaces to build on within the city core. Meanwhile, land buyers typically pay between $15,000 and $50,000 per acre.
Downtown Kilgore shines under a breathtaking sunset.
Ranch-style homes on acreage offer peaceful country living in Kilgore.
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A nostalgic and mural-heavy Texas Main Street City
New and restored murals have helped enliven the exteriors of repurposed spaces like the old post office, now an event center. Downtown attractions include game stores, cafes, cantinas, museums and two historic theaters. Supermarkets and big-box stores are scattered throughout Kilgore to help with weekly errands.
Shopping and dining downtown Kilgore offers a mix of charm and convenience.
Walmart in Kilgore provides a go-to spot for all your shopping needs.
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Much ado at the Texas Shakespeare Festival
Local events include NASA-themed programs at the Kilgore Public Library and a Christmas parade. The city also hosts popular regional events, including a free Oktoberfest featuring oom-pah bands, a beer garden and even a nonalcoholic root beer garden. Plus, the Texas Shakespeare Festival takes the stage every summer. "We have world-class actors come and perform Shakespeare plays, a musical and a children's play," Cole says. "The library gives away lots of tickets to the children's performance so that everyone can be exposed to those. They're world-class actors who come here, which is pretty amazing."
A new high school planned for Kilgore ISD
Although Kilgore is split between Gregg and Rusk counties, all students are zoned for the Kilgore Independent School District, rated B-minus by Niche. The district oversees roughly 3,800 students across five schools, although a new high school is under construction as the population increases. "Our old high school is also from the oil boom in the 1930s, so we desperately need a new high school," Cole says. The district also has several partnerships with Kilgore College, the local community college, including a dual-enrollment program. According to Chris Craddock, associate director of communications and public relations for Kilgore College, the program saw a 36.5% rise in participation during the last academic year.
Kilgore ISD supports students with execellent teachers and resources.
Kilgore Primary School provides quality education to the community.
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Public pools for escaping summer heat
Mountain biking is among the region's most popular outdoor activities, and Kilgore is home to trails along Big Head Creek, plus more in outer areas. Meadowbrook Golf Course's nine holes are another popular fixture. Kilgore City Park's splash pad and public pool are assets in a city where temperatures can reach triple digits in the summer months. "The pool house recently got renovated. And the pool is a big, big draw in the summer. We have people that come from all over to swim in our pool because a lot of nearby cities don't have pools anymore," Cole says. City facilities also include athletic complexes, community centers, playgrounds and skate parks.
Kilgore locals tee of at Meadowbrook Golf Course.
The trail offers the perfect spot for Kilgore locals to enjoy a leisurely walk.
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Piney Woods environs and declining crime rates
Kilgore is in the Texas Piney Woods, a densely forested region where wildlife sightings range from skunks under parked cars to coyotes in chicken coops. The city also faces tornado risks as well as riverine flooding along its many creeks, although few residential areas are affected. Interstate 20 grazes the north edge of town, connecting with Shreveport and Dallas-Fort Worth. Three major roads offer direct access to I-20, including U.S. Highway 259, Kilgore's primary connection with Nacogdoches. Kilgore is also home to the East Texas Regional Airport, offering connecting flights to major airports on American Airlines. According to FBI data, violent crime rates are declining in Kilgore and remain below state and national figures. Property crime, meanwhile, has been on the rise since 2022. Motor vehicle thefts and petty larceny now sit above state and national figures. In 2024, Kilgore received almost $1 million in federal grants to help improve safety with new crisis intervention programs and enhanced officer training.
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Video By
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On average, homes in Kilgore, TX sell after 73 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Kilgore, TX over the last 12 months is $243,500, down 24% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offering 2,589 sq ft of inviting living space and a convenient location just 30 minutes from both Tyler and Longview. From the moment you arrive, the charming circular driveway and lovely curb appeal set the tone for what this spacious home has to offer. Step inside to a bright and open layout featuring fresh paint, new carpet in the
Welcome home to charm, space, and character—all perfectly positioned on a generous half-acre corner lot in the heart of Kilgore! With 2,454 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space and expansive front and back yards, this property offers the room and flexibility today’s buyers are searching for. Step inside to discover two oversized living areas, each featuring its own cozy
Charming and cozy three bedroom two bath home in the heart of Kilgore offering comfort, value, and thoughtful updates. This inviting property features a covered back porch ideal for relaxing or entertaining, along with covered carport parking for up to three vehicles. Inside, the kitchen shares space with the dining area and washer and dryer, featuring white cabinets with black countertops for a
Welcome to this exceptional 6-bedroom, 4-bathroom home offering 3,716 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, situated on 3.63 beautifully treed acres. This stunning property also features a private attached apartment with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom—perfect for guests, extended family, or rental potential. Step inside to soaring ceilings and a spacious living room anchored by a gorgeous
Estimated 1 Acre for sale. Sabine ISD. Feet displayed on the boundary lines of the GCAD photo are estimates drawn inside the GCAD software with the measure tool. They are estimates and for information purposesonly. They are not to be taken as factual.
Welcome to 2509 Broadway, a well-maintained residence offering comfort, space, and a central location in the heart of Kilgore. This inviting home features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, a functional floor plan, and plenty of natural light throughout. The spacious living area provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, while the kitchen is equipped with ample cabinetry and countertop space,
Welcome home to charm, space, and character all perfectly positioned on a generous half-acre corner lot in the heart ofKilgore! With 2,454 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space and expansive front and back yards, this property offersthe room and flexibility today’s buyers are searching for. Step inside to discover two oversized living areas,each featuring itsown cozy fireplace—ideal
61+/- ACRES IDEAL FOR DEVELOPMENT LOCATED IN KILGORE INDUSTRIAL PARK. FRONTAGE ON COX RD AND POST OAK. SABINE ISD. 1 BLOCK FROM INTERSTATE 20 AT HWY 42 EXIT.
Come see this beautiful custom home situated on 1.468 acres outside the city limits! Conveniently located between Kilgore, Longview and Henderson, this gorgeous home has a fabulous open/split primary sutie floor plan and is a true showstopper! This home is a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath with a large 2 car garage AND has a bonus closet for ample storage. The kitchen is a beauty with gorgeous granite
Discover 65 Acres of East Texas Opportunity!Just outside of Kilgore, this beautiful 65± acre tract offers the perfect blend of privacy, accessibility, and natural East Texas beauty. The land is wooded with well-maintained trails, making it ideal for hunting, recreation, or a private homesite.Approximately 20% of the property is bottomland, offering a perfect spot to dig a large pond
GREAT LOCATION ON ALMOST 39 ACRES JUST 10 MINUTES FROM LOOP ON HWY 259 IN JUDSON AREA. EXCELLENT COMMERCIAL LOCATION IN AREA OF CONTINUED GROWTH IN THE NORTH LONGVIEW AREA. ALMOST 700 FEET OF ROAD FRONTAGE ON HIGHWAY 259 NORTH. EXCELLENT FOR DEVELOPMENT. NO RESTRICTIONS. HIGHWAY HAS TURNAROUND / CROSSING IN FRONT OF THE PROPERTY. PROPERTY HAS OLDER WELL BUILT FARM HOUSE THAT WOULD MAKE EXCELLENT
Cavco Rainier 430 ES 16663A | Pre-Sale Opportunity in Kilgore Home Features and Efficient Design The Cavco Rainier 430 ES 16663A offers 1,013 square feet of efficient living space at 1773 Spinks Chapman Rd. This three-bedroom, two-bathroom residence is designed for functional utility and long-term durability. The interior features resilient vinyl flooring throughout, providing a consistent and
Glen Hollow offers residents of Kilgore apartment living to fit any need. Neatly manicured grounds, superior service, affordable pricing, and spacious, uniquely designed 1, 2 & 3 bedroom floor plans. Glen Hollow truly offers something for everyone. Minutes from Kilgore College, restaurants, and shopping, once you are here you will not want to leave. Unlike other apartment communities, at Glen
*Kilgore Home for Lease* $1800/ mo. includes water, trash, and yard maintenance. Enjoy peaceful country views just minutes from town at 2227 A Danville Rd in Kilgore. This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers an inviting open floor plan with tile flooring throughout, making it both stylish and easy to maintain. The spacious layout flows seamlessly from the living area into the kitchen and
Property Id: 2398139This 1-bed, 1-bath duplex is looking for a new resident! This unit has a good sized living room and an adorable kitchen. The backyard is fully fenced and has a covered patio!Pets welcome with some breed restrictions for just a one time fee/deposit. No monthly pet rent!Reach out today to learn more and to schedule your own private tour!
Modern Elegance in Kilgore, TX! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom brick home spanning 1595 sqft has been meticulously remodeled to offer a luxurious living experience. Nestled in a serene neighborhood, this property boasts an attached 2-car garage and an oversized carport for added convenience. The interior exudes contemporary charm with sleek finishes and ample natural light filtering through
Rocky Creek Townhomes are centrally located between Tyler & Longview in the highly sought after Sabine Independent School District. Each unit has it's own fenced in back yard & extra concrete parking is available. It is across the street from the city park & centrally located between the elementary & junior/high schools. Trash & lawn care is included with the rent. 1 pet under 20 lbs. is
This charming 2 bedroom, 2 bath single family home with large deck and front porch is located on Modisette Circle off of River Road. The property is close to Kilgore and Liberty City areas and quick access to Interstate 20. Refrigerator, stove and microwave are included. We will allow 1 small pet (under 20 lbs. fully grown) with a $450.00 non refundable pet deposit and a $25.00 per
Rocky Creek Townhomes are centrally located between Tyler & Longview in the highly sought after Sabine Independent School District. Each unit has it's own fenced in back yard & extra concrete parking is available. It is across the street from the city park & centrally located between the elementary & junior/high schools. Trash & lawn care is included with the rent. 1 pet under 20 lbs. is
Rocky Creek Townhomes are centrally located between Tyler & Longview in the highly sought after Sabine Independent School District. Each unit has it's own fenced in back yard & extra concrete parking is available. It is across the street from the city park & centrally located between the elementary & junior/high schools. Trash & lawn care is included with the rent. 1 pet under 20 lbs. is
A 1br/1bath, ground floor level. .6 miles away from Kilgore college. Rent is $825 a month, with a $825 deposit. We are pet friendly with a $250 one time pet fee, and 50 a month pet rent, 75 for 2, 100 for 3. Unit will be available November 8th.
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