Unearth The Voyage
Tucked away in Central Texas, Killeen might not grab headlines like Austin or Dallas, but it’s quietly becoming a favorite for people seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life. With home prices that won’t break the bank, a food scene that surprises newcomers, and close ties to Fort Cavazos, this city offers something special. Whether you’re considering a move or just curious about what makes Killeen tick, these seven insights will help you see why locals love calling this place home.
1. Home Prices That Actually Make Sense
Buying a home in Texas can feel impossible these days, but Killeen bucks that trend. The median sale price hovers around $240,000 as of mid-2025, with some analyses showing values closer to $221,651. That’s significantly lower than what you’d pay in Austin, Houston, or Dallas for comparable properties.
First-time buyers find this particularly appealing. You’re not sacrificing square footage or quality just to afford a mortgage. Prices have climbed about 5.5% over the past year, showing healthy growth without the wild speculation seen elsewhere.
This affordability opens doors—literally—for families and young professionals who want to build equity. Killeen proves you don’t need six figures saved up to own a piece of Texas.
2. Fort Cavazos Fuels the Local Economy
Right next door to Killeen sits Fort Cavazos, formerly known as Fort Hood, and it’s the beating heart of the local economy. Thousands of military personnel, civilian contractors, and support staff call this base home, creating a steady stream of business for the city.
The broader metro area’s job market extends beyond just the base. Trade, healthcare, education, manufacturing, and government roles all contribute to employment opportunities. This diversity means the economy doesn’t rely solely on one sector, even though the military presence is dominant.
For residents, this translates to job stability and a community built around service. The military culture shapes Killeen’s identity in meaningful ways, from local businesses catering to service members to community events honoring veterans.
3. Transit Options Exist, But Know the Limits
Getting around Killeen without a car is possible, thanks to the Hill Country Transit District, known locally as The HOP. This regional system serves the area with a mix of traditional routes and newer microtransit services that work more like on-demand rides within specific zones.
In 2024, The HOP shifted some fixed-route lines to microtransit, allowing passengers to request pickups through an app. Urban Regional Commuter routes also connect Killeen to nearby cities like Temple, Belton, and Copperas Cove, making regional travel more accessible.
That said, public transit here isn’t as robust as in bigger cities. Most residents still rely on personal vehicles for daily errands and commutes, but The HOP provides a helpful backup option.
4. Walking and Biking Take a Backseat
If you’re dreaming of a walkable urban lifestyle, Killeen might not be your first choice. The city’s layout is classic suburban Texas—spread out, car-dependent, and designed with driving in mind. Nomadlio scores its walkability at just 28, labeled as “limited,” with public transit at 40.
Amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, and schools are often miles apart, making walking or biking impractical for most daily tasks. There are pockets where pedestrians fare better, especially in newer developments or near downtown, but these are exceptions rather than the rule.
Biking enthusiasts will find limited infrastructure, though recreational trails do exist. For now, owning a reliable vehicle remains essential for getting around Killeen comfortably and efficiently.
5. A Food Scene That Packs a Punch
Here’s where Killeen really shines: the food. With around 345 restaurants listed on TripAdvisor, the city offers way more culinary variety than you’d expect. You’ll find everything from authentic Texas barbecue to ramen shops, family-run taco stands to international cuisine representing cultures from around the globe.
The military presence at Fort Cavazos plays a big role here. Service members from different backgrounds bring their food traditions, leading to a wonderfully eclectic dining landscape. Local blogs and the Greater Killeen Chamber highlight hidden gems that even longtime residents discover regularly.
Whether you’re craving comfort food, exploring new flavors, or hunting for the perfect brisket, Killeen’s restaurant scene delivers. It’s one of the city’s best-kept secrets and a genuine point of pride.
6. Crime Rates Require a Closer Look
Safety is naturally a concern for anyone considering a new city, and Killeen’s crime statistics present a mixed picture. According to Nextdoor, the overall crime rate sits at 37.67 per 1,000 residents, above the national average of 33.37. Violent crime specifically is reported at 19.41 per 1,000, compared to the U.S. rate of 13.84.
AreaVibes notes that violent crime runs about 46% above the national rate, though property crime falls slightly below average. However, NeighborhoodScout offers a different perspective, ranking Killeen safer than typical cities of its size in certain categories.
Context matters. Like many cities with large military populations, crime statistics can be skewed. Researching specific neighborhoods and talking to locals provides a clearer picture than numbers alone.
7. Perfectly Positioned for Regional Adventures
Location, location, location—Killeen’s got it. Sitting roughly 55 miles north of Austin and about 125 miles from both Dallas and San Antonio, the city serves as a convenient hub for exploring Texas. Weekend trips to major metros are totally doable without the hassle of living in them.
The Killeen-Fort Hood Regional Airport adds another layer of connectivity, offering non-stop flights to DFW and Houston. This makes business travel and family visits far easier than relying solely on long drives. Interstate 14 runs through the area, supporting east-west travel across the region.
This strategic positioning means residents enjoy small-city living with big-city access. You’re never too far from culture, entertainment, or opportunity, yet you come home to affordability and space.
