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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Written By
Amy David
Photography Contributed By
Saeid Zare
Video By
Alex Finneran
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Killeen, TX sell after 71 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Killeen, TX over the last 12 months is $249,000, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Location is just one of the amazing features of this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom move in ready home. Perfectly located near Ft Hood, shopping centers and top-rated schools, including Texas A&M University–Central Texas. Enjoy the convenience of a 2-car garage, a back porch great for grilling or hanging out, a Texas size kitchen with an abundance of storage, a refrigerator that conveys and enough room
Find your home in Turnbo Ranch Traditions in Killeen, Texas with the Everett floorplan. With approximately 2,150 sq. ft., you’ll have the perfect space in this 3-4 bedroom, 2 bath layout. Park your car or store your belongings in the attached 2-car garage.When you enter the home, you’ll be greeted with the beautiful open-concept design living area, that blends the kitchen and great room. The
Welcome to this beautifully updated home. The interior boasts a neutral color paint scheme, complemented by a stylish accent backsplash in the kitchen. The kitchen also features all stainless steel appliances. The primary bathroom is a haven of relaxation with double sinks and a jacuzzi tub. Step outside to a covered patio overlooking a fenced-in backyard. The exterior of the home has fresh paint
Welcome to this spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath two-story home nestled in the Bridgewood neighborhood! The primary suite is conveniently located downstairs, offering privacy and ease, while upstairs features two additional bedrooms and a versatile loft – perfect for a second living area, home office, or study space.The open-concept kitchen, dining, and living areas are ideal for entertaining,
Welcome to this beautiful two-story home nestled on a spacious corner lot in a peaceful cul-de-sac! This property features four generously sized bedrooms, including the minor bedrooms, and two and a half bathrooms, along with a two-car garage. Spacious primary bedroom, with double vanity, separate shower and garden tub, and walk in closets. if more space is needed, home offers another storage
Ashford Homes presents the Pepper Creek plan. This beautiful home is finished with all the modern touches, granite counter tops, wood look ceramic tile flooring, black finished hardware and fixtures, stainless steel appliances, ceiling fans in all the rooms, LED lighting through out, garage door opener, full yard sprinkler system, full yard sod, wood privacy fence and 4-sided brick and stone.
** Available on September 11** A beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home that effortlessly combines modern amenities with timeless charm. As you step inside, you'll immediately notice the abundance of natural sunlight that fills the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The living room features a cozy wood-burning fireplace, perfect for those cool evenings. The kitchen is a
**Available on September 11** This beautifully maintained four-bedroom, two-bathroom residence offers both comfort and convenience in one of Killeen’s most desirable neighborhoods. Designed with both function and style in mind, this home boasts an inviting layout and thoughtful upgrades throughout. The heart of the home is the modern kitchen, featuring sleek stainless steel appliances, a tasteful
This charming 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home is located in a quiet and welcoming neighborhood, just minutes away from shopping, dining, and schools—making it a convenient choice for families or professionals. This smoke-free property does not accept HUD, pets, or roommates. Lawn care is included for the first year only, giving you one less thing to worry about.
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