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Killeen

Killeen

Located in Bell County

$225,351 Average Value
$143 Average Price per Sq Ft
841 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 David Schneider, 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

Killeen Housing Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$254,612
Median Sale Price
$245,105
Median Single Family Sale Price
$246,000
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$220,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
1%
Last 12 months Home Sales
2,368
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
2%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$143

Area Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
36,713
Number of Homes for Sale
841
Median Year Built
1996
Months of Supply
4.30
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,795
Below the national average
1,924
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,432
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
725
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
8,276

Open Houses

  • Friday, Sep 5
    Open Fri 11AM - 2PM

    6306 Siltstone Loop, Killeen, TX 76542

    $369,000

    • 4 Beds
    • 3.5 Baths
    • 2,825 Sq Ft
    • 6306 Siltstone Loop

    A BENTINA home at its Finest! This beautiful home sits on a large corner lot with a side loaded two car garage, providing ample outdoor space for entertainment and privacy. The house features four spacious bedrooms, with the possibility of converting the additional room above the garage into a fifth bedroom, perfect for growing families or guests. The floorplan also includes three and a half

    Agent Photo
    Tracy Epting
    NextHome Tropicana Realty
    (254) 348-2948
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  • Saturday, Sep 6
    Open Sat 10:30AM - 12:30PM

    3709 Appalachian Trail, Killeen, TX 76549

    $275,000

    • 5 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,039 Sq Ft
    • 3709 Appalachian Trail
    • New 5 days ago

    Step inside this beautiful 5-bedroom, 2-bath home designed for both comfort and style. The open floor plan creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, highlighted by a cozy fireplace in the living room. The spacious kitchen, complete with a walk-in pantry, opens to the dining room—perfect for family meals and entertaining.The primary suite feels like a retreat with its roomy layout, dual vanity,

    Kristin Butler All City Real Estate

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  • Tuesday, Sep 2
    Open Tue 8AM - 7PM

    2405 Riley Dr, Killeen, TX 76542

    $287,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 2,186 Sq Ft
    • 2405 Riley Dr
    • New 12 days ago

    Fantastic home in sought after location! This home has Fresh Interior Paint, Fresh Exterior Paint, Partial flooring replacement in some areas. A fireplace and a soft neutral color palette create a solid blank canvas for the living area. Step into the kitchen, complete with an eye catching stylish backsplash. You won’t want to leave the serene primary suite, the perfect space to relax. The primary

    Amber Broadway Opendoor Brokerage, LLC

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Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

Killeen Has More Renters

Demographics

Total Population
163,444
Median Age
31
Population under 18
31.3%
Above the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
9.5%
Below the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$51,908
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$65,198

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
91.4%
College Graduates
21.5%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
6.9%
Below the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
69.4%

Weather

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

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®®

22 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®®

0 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

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.
Killeen