Texas Killeen

killeen-tx-1

Moving to Killeen, Texas

Killeen, Texas, blends classic Central Texas warmth with easy access to Austin’s vibrant jobs, culture, and amenities. Just 70 miles north of downtown Austin via I-35, the city offers welcoming neighborhoods like Twin Creeks and Antilley Gardens, top-rated public schools in Killeen Independent School District, and a family-friendly, spirited vibe. Residents enjoy 20+ city parks plus nearby Fort Cavazos trails, the scenic Stillhouse Hollow Lake for boating and fishing, the Parks and Recreation Department’s pools and splash pads, and premier hiking, biking, and disc golf minutes away in Dana Peak Park and Belton Lake. A lively downtown on 10th Street delivers eclectic dining, local spots like Killer Burgers, live music venues, and events like Food Truck Fridays and the Killeen Summer Concert Series—all at a cost of living about 15% below national averages. With quick drives to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Hill Country Transit District bus service, and growing trail infrastructure, Killeen delivers strong community spirit, natural beauty, and the perfect balance of relaxed suburban living with big-city convenience nearby.

Killeen by the numbers

162,330

City population

12% Lower
Cost of living vs the national average
$225,000

Median home price

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Discover Killeen: Top Attractions and Things to Do

Local Experiences

Local Experiences

Killeen, Texas, blends classic Central Texas warmth with invigorating outdoor pursuits and a tight-knit military-family community spirit, all just minutes from Fort Cavazos's energy. Locals cherish hiking the rugged trails of Dana Peak Park, boating or angling on Belton Lake and Stillhouse Hollow Lake, trekking the scenic Stillhouse Hollow Trail, or pedaling the Killeen Urban Trail System. Downtown's eclectic eateries, gastro breweries, and seasonal events like Food Truck Fridays keep the social scene buzzing and bonds strong.

Hiking, Biking & Trails
Killeen boasts over 15 miles of trails and greenways, including the Dana Peak Park trails and Killeen Urban Trail System. These paths wind past rolling hills, lake views, and native Texas landscapes, linking neighborhoods to parks, wildlife areas, and nearby Belton Lake Recreation Area.

Family-Friendly Activities
Families head to Lions Junction Family Aquatic Center for its splash pads and pools, NickelMania for arcade fun, and the Killeen Public Library for interactive story times and exhibits. The Killeen Farmers Market (year-round) delivers fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and live tunes to the vibrant downtown area.

Local Breweries & Dining
Killeen's craft beer buzz thrives at spots like 3 Monkeys Brewing and Turning Point Tavern, both with cozy taprooms, patios, and rotating food trucks or live music. For eats, Killer Burgers serves bold, locally inspired gourmet burgers, while Adair's Kitchen pairs classic Southern comfort food with craft cocktails in a lively, family-friendly setting.

Parks and Recreation | City of Killeen, TX
Best hikes and trails in Killeen | AllTrails
Farmer's Market | City of Killeen, TX

Sports and Recreation

Sports and Recreation

Killeen is a haven for active lifestyles and sports fans, fueled by Killeen High School's energetic athletics and endless outdoor pursuits in Bell County's parks and trails, all within a 70-mile drive of Austin.

While Killeen lacks professional teams, big-league action is accessible nearby: root for MLB's Texas Rangers, NBA's Austin Spurs, or MLS's Austin FC in Arlington or Austin, or catch minor-league fun with the Round Rock Express Triple-A baseball or Texas Stars AHL hockey just 30–45 minutes away. Killeen High's Kangaroos deliver thrilling high school action at Kangaroo Stadium for football and the Natatorium for swimming, with a storied history including district titles and playoff runs.

Killeen excels in top-tier facilities and wild natural escapes. The Lions Club Park Family Recreation Center packs fitness gear, indoor tracks, courts for basketball and pickleball, and leagues for all ages, while the Parks and Recreation Department offers group classes and indoor sports. Locals hit the athletic fields at Killeen Athletic Complex for baseball, softball, and soccer tournaments, or the Lions Junction Family Aquatic Center splash pad for summer fun. Beyond town, Dana Peak Park and Chalk Ridge Falls Park beckon with 10+ miles of trails for hiking, biking, and rock climbing, kayaking on Belton Lake, fishing at Stillhouse Hollow Lake, and disc golf amid rolling hills and lakeside views. With Texas's sunny days, wildflower blooms, and mild winters, Killeen inspires an effortless, adventure-packed daily rhythm.

Athletics | City of Killeen, TX
Parks and Recreation | City of Killeen, TX
Best hikes and trails in Killeen | AllTrails

Adventures

Adventures

Killeen, Texas, is an outdoor lover’s paradise just 70 miles from Austin and surrounded by Bell County’s parks and lakes. Hike or bike the scenic Stillhouse Hollow Trail and Killeen Urban Trail System, paddle Belton Lake or Stillhouse Hollow Lake, or climb rugged terrain at Dana Peak Park and Chalk Ridge Falls Park. Thrill-seekers tackle mountain biking routes and lake kayaking, while families love disc golf at Dana Peak Park, wildlife spotting, and playgrounds at Lions Junction Family Aquatic Center and Veterans Memorial Park.

History and culture enrich every outing. Dive into regional heritage at the Killeen Community Center with its military artifacts and Fort Hood exhibits, explore the Central Texas Veterans Memorial stories, or wander the historic 10th Street district’s murals and early 20th-century architecture.

Year-round festivals—from Food Truck Fridays and Killeen Summer Concert Series to the Freedom Fest fireworks and Holiday in the Park—keep the vibe electric. Whether you chase adrenaline or quiet lakeside escapes, Killeen delivers unforgettable adventures for all ages.

Parks and Recreation | City of Killeen, TX
Best hikes and trails in Killeen | AllTrails
Special Events | City of Killeen, TX

Seasonal Events

Seasonal Events

Killeen embraces year-round celebrations that highlight its Central Texas heritage, community spirit, and vibrant military-family culture.

Spring
As bluebonnets bloom and temperatures rise, Killeen buzzes with outdoor markets and cultural kickoffs. The Killeen Farmers Market launches its year-round run with fresh local produce, artisan goods, and live music every second Saturday, while Spring Fest brings vendor booths, family activities, and sessions at downtown venues. The Martin Luther King Jr. Day March—marking its ongoing tradition in 2025—draws crowds for parades, speeches, and community gatherings in the historic district.

Summer
Summertime in Killeen pulses with music, festivals, and lakeside leisure. Food Truck Fridays rock free outdoor stages at the Municipal Center Lawn with local and regional bands, while community events flood parks with quirky games, eats, and artisan booths. Freedom Fest fireworks dazzle during the July 4th celebrations with parades, concerts, and family fun, and nearby trails, Belton Lake, and Stillhouse Hollow Lake beckon for boating, biking, swimming, and picnics amid the greenery.

Fall
With golden leaves and crisp air, Killeen toasts harvest vibes through fairs and craft fests. The Celebrate Killeen Festival spotlights indie artisans with screenings, street vendors, and parties in the historic district, while the nearby Fall Harvest events celebrate autumn's hearty side with pet parades, live music, and vendor rides. Parks like Dana Peak Park and the Killeen Urban Trail System set the scene for hiking, pumpkin patches, and cozy gatherings.

Winter
Killeen’s winter sparkles with cozy markets and community spirit during holiday events. The indoor Farmers Market at the civic center runs Saturdays through the season, offering seasonal treats, crafts, and warmth, while high school basketball games at Killeen High pack the gym with cheers and festive tailgates. Theaters and galleries host yuletide shows, nurturing joyful bonds in the mild Texas chill.

Throughout the year, Killeen’s calendar overflows with farmers markets, art walks, music series, and neighborhood bashes that reflect its welcoming, spirited character.

Calendar • City of Killeen, TX
City releases list of 2025 events in Killeen | KDH News
Events Schedule October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025 | City of Killeen

Community Resources

Healthcare
Hospitals and Medical Centers

Killeen, Texas, provides residents with convenient access to a robust network of hospitals, medical centers, and specialty clinics located both within the city and in nearby Bell County, ensuring high-quality healthcare for all ages.

AdventHealth Central Texas – This full-service, 142-bed facility right in Killeen serves as a regional hub for Central Texas, offering advanced emergency services, surgical care, cardiovascular treatment, oncology, maternity with a dedicated women's center, and orthopedics, with a strong focus on patient-centered care, wound healing, and community wellness programs. https://www.adventhealth.com/hospital/adventhealth-central-texas

Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center – Affiliated with the Defense Health Agency on Fort Cavazos, this major military treatment facility in Killeen delivers comprehensive services including trauma care, neurology, pediatrics, and women's health, emphasizing innovative treatments, graduate medical education, and residency programs for service members and their families. https://darnall.tricare.mil/

Seton Medical Center Harker Heights – Located a short drive north in Harker Heights, this 83-bed acute care hospital provides nationally recognized care in cardiology, emergency services with Level IV trauma designation, general surgery, and total joint replacement, serving as a key hub for specialized treatment in the region. https://setonharkerheights.net/

Baylor Scott & White Clinic - Killeen – This local outpatient center specializes in primary care, physical therapy, diagnostic imaging, and long-term wellness, supporting residents' transitions from acute care to home with personalized treatment plans. https://www.bswhealth.com/locations/clinic/baylor-scott-white-clinic-killeen

Regional Clinics and Medical Practices – Killeen and surrounding areas feature numerous primary care offices, urgent care centers like Integrity Urgent Care and Freedom Urgent Care, and specialty clinics affiliated with networks such as Baylor Scott & White Health and AdventHealth, delivering convenient preventive, diagnostic, and routine services close to home. https://www.healthgrades.com/hospital-directory/tx-texas/killeen

Together, these hospitals and medical facilities ensure Killeen residents have reliable access to advanced healthcare, emergency response, pediatric treatment, and long-term wellness services that support the health of the entire community.

Hospitals near Killeen, TX | Healthgrades
Killeen, TX, locations | Baylor Scott & White Health
AdventHealth Central Texas | Premier Killeen Hospital and ER
Education
Schools and Learning Institutes

Killeen, Texas, is a dynamic family hub renowned for its commitment to education across all stages. From solid public schools and specialized private options to accessible higher education and ongoing learning programs, Killeen cultivates a comprehensive academic ecosystem that nurtures innovation, growth, and achievement for learners of every age.

Public Schools & Education - Killeen is served by the Killeen Independent School District, a large system covering PK-12 with over 50 schools focused on academic progress, equity, and holistic student growth. Flagship high schools like Killeen High School deliver rigorous curricula, athletics, and arts in a supportive environment, with a 90%+ graduation rate and strong college readiness through a 35% AP participation rate. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/texas/districts/killeen-independent-school-district-105018 https://www.publicschoolreview.com/texas/killeen-independent-school-district/48210-school-district

Specialized learning tracks, including STEM initiatives, gifted programs, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and enriched arts and music education, empower students to customize their paths toward personal and professional aspirations.

Private & Alternative Education - Killeen families can choose from diverse private and faith-based schools emphasizing tailored instruction and character building. St. Joseph Catholic Academy serves preschool through grade 12 with Catholic, values-driven learning in small classes focused on classical education and critical thinking. Nearby options like Memorial Christian Academy (PK-12) and Killeen Adventist Junior Academy (PK-8) foster creativity through hands-on, play-based or individualized experiences. https://www.privateschoolreview.com/texas/killeen https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-private-schools/t/killeen-bell-tx/

Higher Education Opportunities - At the heart of the region lies Texas A&M University-Central Texas in Killeen, a public institution offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees in fields like business, education, health sciences, arts, and sciences, with robust research and community engagement. Nearby, Central Texas College provides associate degrees, workforce training, and continuing education just minutes away. These form a supportive network for degree pursuits, certifications, and career shifts. https://www.collegesimply.com/colleges-near/texas/killeen/

Adult & Lifelong Learning - Killeen champions continuous curiosity via offerings from Central Texas College's Adult Education program, district adult education partnerships, and regional programs like Temple College's Adult Education and Literacy services. The college hosts workshops on digital literacy, ESL classes, and cultural events. Community venues offer classes in technology, wellness, languages, and finance, while Central Texas College and Temple College provide non-credit certificates, online courses, and professional development for enrichment and advancement. https://www.ctcd.edu/students/adult-education-and-texas-certificate-of-high-school-equivalency/ https://www.killeentexas.gov/library

Whether you're a parent seeking the ideal match, a teen aiming for higher horizons, or an adult craving new expertise, Killeen's enriching educational fabric empowers victory in every life phase.

Killeen Independent School District Public School District | Texas | Best High Schools | US News
Private Schools in Killeen, TX - Niche
Colleges in Killeen, Texas and Colleges near Killeen
Central Texas College - For Students Of The Real World
Public Resources
Regional Services and Agencies

Killeen, Texas, operates under a council-manager form of government and is supported by local departments that provide essential services to residents and businesses.

Law Enforcement Public safety in Killeen is provided by the Killeen Police Department, which emphasizes community-oriented policing, crime prevention, and responsive emergency services to maintain a safe environment for residents, businesses, and visitors. https://www.killeentexas.gov/231/Police

Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services Fire and EMS services are managed by the Killeen Fire Department, which includes professional and volunteer personnel to provide reliable fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical care throughout the city. https://www.killeentexas.gov/283/Fire

Weather & Climate Killeen experiences a humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Average temperatures range from approximately 40°F in January to 96°F in July, supporting year-round outdoor recreation, community events, and seasonal activities.

Transportation & Mobility Killeen is conveniently located along US Highway 190 (Central Texas Expressway) and State Highway 195, providing easy access to Austin and other regional hubs. Public transportation is offered through the Hill Country Transit District (The HOP), connecting residents to local and intercity communities via bus services across nine counties. The city is home to Killeen-Fort Hood Regional Airport for commercial flights, with nearby options like Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport in Temple for general aviation, and just 70 miles from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). https://www.killeentexas.gov/335/Transportation https://www.killeentexas.gov/ https://flykilleen.com/

Utilities & Waste Management Essential services in Killeen are managed by the Utilities Department, which oversees water, sewer, stormwater management, and curbside trash and recycling collection. Electricity is provided through deregulated providers via Power to Choose, and natural gas services are offered by providers like Texas Gas Service. The city promotes sustainability through recycling programs at the Killeen Recycling Center, yard waste collection, and environmental initiatives. https://www.killeentexas.gov/357/Utilities https://www.powertochoose.org/

Additional sources:

City of Killeen, TX | Official Website
Departments | City of Killeen, TX
Killeen-Fort Hood Regional Airport

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