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Killeen

Killeen

$229,522 Average Value
$148 Average Price per Sq Ft
824 Homes For Sale

A military community in the heart of Central Texas

Sitting between Austin and Waco, Killeen is known mainly for its military presence, as well as its affordability, diversity and burgeoning downtown district. The Bell County community is home to 162,000 people and Fort Cavazos, the largest active-duty military base of the U.S. Armed Forces. Killeen’s economy is dependent on the base, and it’s the city’s biggest employer, with over 35,000 soldiers. It contributed nearly $40 billion to Texas’ economy in 2023. “The base is pretty much the only major employer in the area,” says Marilyn Joyce, a Realtor at The Agents Premiere Realty Group. “If you work for a big company and it’s not the base, you’re commuting to Austin or Waco.” Killeen Independent School District, military defense contractors and AdventHealth Central Texas are also employers in the area.

A revitalized historic district and diverse cuisine

The Killeen Downtown Historic District is the hub for shopping and dining activity. Since 2022, the district of mom-and-pops has experienced revitalization, with Killeen investing $1 million of American Rescue Plan Act grants into renovations. Between 2023 and 2024, over 60 new businesses opened, creating more than 200 jobs, as part of the Killeen 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The weekly farmers market also attracts thousands. Because of its proximity to the military base, Killeen is extremely diverse, reflected in its eclectic dining scene. Taco shops are sprinkled across town, like Taqueria Mexico Restaurant and La Garita, home of Killeen’s biggest burrito. Barbecue joints like Petty’s BBQ and Korean spots like KPOT Korean BBQ also dominate its culinary landscape. Killeen Mall is one of two regional shopping malls in Bell County, with over 90 stores.
The city’s military presence is woven throughout its culture, from historic landmarks to attractions. The National Mounted Warrior Museum highlights U.S. Army mounted warriors, from horse-riding to combat vehicles. Killeen has one of Texas’ few planetariums. The Mayborn Science Theater, on Central Texas College’s campus, features a 60-foot dome and educational shows. Central Texas Theater is a popular spot to catch plays and musicals year-round.

One of the most affordable cities in America

U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks the city among the most affordable in America. Killeen’s median home sale price is around $244,000, lower than the national median. “This area is super attractive to people because it caters to many budgets, and they can get more for their dollar,” says Tisha Holder, a Realtor for Prolific Realty. The city is primarily made up of established neighborhoods with older, traditional single-family homes. Newer construction is mainly in the city’s southern half, where homes are pricier. Single-family dwellings, apartments and condos are also available for rent. The median rental price is $1,250.

Variety of housing styles in Killeen/Fort Cavazos.
Variety of housing styles in Killeen/Fort Cavazos.
Killeen/Fort Cavazos offers diverse housing choices.
Killeen/Fort Cavazos offers diverse housing choices.
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Surrounded by two lakes that are hubs for recreation

Rolling hills, lakes and dense forests surround Killeen and the city operates over 20 parks. Lions Club Park is a hub for community events and recreation. It has over 15 sports fields and courts, a senior center and a family recreation complex with a waterpark. Three public golf courses are in the area, including Stonetree Golf Club, an 18-hole course with 30 annual tournaments. Killeen sits between two large lakes that are hotspots for recreation year-round. To the north, Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area is popular for boating and wakeboarding. It also includes watersides, trails, a marina and a beach. Stillhouse Hollow Lake sits south and is dotted with lakefront parks. It offers fishing, camping and the Dana Peak Mountain Bike and Equestrian Trails, which span 58 miles through rugged hills and terrain.

Enjoy a game of basketball or soccer at Lions Club Park's well-kept sports areas.
Enjoy a game of basketball or soccer at Lions Club Park's well-kept sports areas.
Lions Club Park offers family fun, sports facilities, and community events.
Lions Club Park offers family fun, sports facilities, and community events.
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Home to the 8th-best school district in Bell County

Killeen Independent School District serves the area; the B-rated district caters to over 43,000 students. Central Texas College has served the community since 1965, and the A-plus-rated Texas A&M University-Central Texas is also within the city.

Liberty Hill Middle School emphasizes academic excellence and community involvement.
Liberty Hill Middle School emphasizes academic excellence and community involvement.
Killeen Elementary School is committed to student success.
Killeen Elementary School is committed to student success.
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A subtropical climate but high crime

Killeen experiences a subtropical humid climate. According to FBI reports, property crime rates are below state and national figures, but violent crime rates are higher. According to the Killeen Police Department, violent crimes were up 18% in 2023 from the year prior. Property crimes were also slightly up, a 2% increase for the same period. To combat this, Killeen has created a community engagement team within the police department that patrols downtown on foot and bicycle.

Rodeos, fireworks and football celebrations

The city hosts six bi-monthly events a year. Downtown’s fireworks display is the largest in Central Texas. The Celebrate Killeen Festival has been a tradition for over 40 years. Held in April, the three-day event is one of the city’s largest celebrations. Every May, the city celebrates Texas’ cowboy heritage with Rodeo Killeen. Held for over 75 years, it features bull riding and barrel racing. Sports fans kick off football season in September with the Touchdown in Downtown celebration.

This park in Killeen hosts local festivals, fostering a strong sense of community.
This park in Killeen hosts local festivals, fostering a strong sense of community.
The Knights of Harker Heights have a winning team.
The Knights of Harker Heights have a winning team.
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Close to Downtown Temple; easy access to Austin

Interstate 14 and U.S. Highway 190 cut through Killeen’s northern half, and State Highway 195 cuts down its western edge. These routes provide access around the region. Killeen Regional Airport is 9 miles away and is a small commercial/military joint-use airport. It’s served by American Airlines, with flights to the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, 168 miles away. Downtown Temple is 25 miles east, and Austin is about 70 miles south. Hill County Transit District provides public transportation with eight routes.

Amy David
Written By
Amy David
Saeid Zare
Photography Contributed By
Saeid Zare
Alex Finneran
Video By
Alex Finneran

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Allison Pflaum, an experienced agent in this area.

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
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

Parks in this Area

Area Facts

Number of Homes
37,829
Number of Homes for Sale
824
Median Year Built
1996
Months of Supply
4.20
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,804
Below the national average
1,930
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,435
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
725
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
500
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
8,276

Open Houses

  • Saturday, Mar 21
    Open Sat 12PM - 4PM

    1204 Cedar Dr, Killeen, TX 76543

    $155,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,140 Sq Ft
    • 1204 Cedar Dr

    Price Improvement - $155,000!!! Cozy 3 bedroom home MINUTES AWAY FROM FORT HOOD BRAND NEW ROOF NO HOA 4 SIDE BRICK NEW TWO TONE PAINT LUXURY VINYL FLOORING THROUGHOUT MATURE TREES AND FULLY FENCED IN BACKYARD CLOSING COST ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE CONTACT YOUR FAVORITE AGENT TO SCHEDULE YOUR PRIVATE TOUR

    Eleonora Santana Nexthome Tropicana Realty

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  • Sunday, Mar 15
    Open Mon 9AM - 7PM

    4706 Embers Dr, Killeen, TX 76542

    $215,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,357 Sq Ft
    • 4706 Embers Dr
    • New 4 days ago

    Welcome to 4706 Embers Dr. An inviting living area centers around a cozy fireplace, creating a comfortable space to unwind. The kitchen is a true delight, with all stainless steel appliances and an elegant accent backsplash. The primary bathroom is a haven of relaxation with double sinks and a jacuzzi tub, provides a spa-like experience at home. Outside, the fenced-in backyard features a covered

    Amber Broadway Opendoor Brokerage, LLC

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  • Saturday, Mar 28
    Open House 3/28

    4500 Aspen Dr, Killeen, TX 76542

    $228,900

    • 4 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,684 Sq Ft
    • 4500 Aspen Dr

    Move-In Ready! This beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers a spacious layout designed for modern living. The home features a large, light-filled living room—perfect for both entertaining and everyday family life. Newly installed luxury vinyl flooring flows throughout the home, adding style and durability. Enjoy year-round comfort with a brand-new, high-efficiency HVAC system,

    Nadine Melvin Century 21 Randall Morris

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Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Neighborhoods in Killeen

Property Mix - Square Feet

Killeen Has More Renters

Demographics

Total Population
164,158
Median Age
32
Population under 18
31.2%
Above the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
9.9%
Below the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$61,398
Significantly below the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$76,298

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
91.6%
College Graduates
21.8%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
7.1%
Below the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
69.6%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
35''
Average Winter Low Temperature
36°F
Average Summer High Temperature
96°F
Annual Snowfall
0''

Area Factors

Somewhat friendly

Bike Score®®

20 / 100

Not friendly

Walk Score®®

10 / 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.
Killeen