Moving to Killeen, Texas: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering moving to Killeen, Texas? Nestled in Central Texas’ Bell County, Killeen offers an affordable cost of living, a strong regional job market (especially around the military), and easy access to larger metros in 2025.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Killeen:

With a 2025 estimated population of about **162,330** residents, Killeen is growing steadily and remains one of the larger cities in Central Texas. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} Located in Bell County, the city lies roughly 55 miles north of Austin and about 125 miles southwest of Dallas, positioning it in the heart of the Central Texas region. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Neighborhoods in Killeen vary—from more established residential areas to newer development zones and military-influenced housing near Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood). The median age is relatively young (around 30 years) which reflects a mix of families, military personnel, and young professionals. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
The community is diverse: according to recent data, about 35% of residents are Black/African American, approximately 27% Hispanic/Latino, about 24% non-Hispanic White, and smaller proportions of Asian and multiracial residents. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Killeen:

Killeen’s cost of living is generally favorable—its overall cost-of-living index sits around **90**, meaning it is approximately 10% below the U.S. national average. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Housing remains especially affordable. The median home value is about **$218,500** as of late 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6} Rental rates are also relatively modest: the average rent for all apartments is around **$1,113/month** (October 2025) in the broader Killeen/Bell County market. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Other typical costs are modest. For example, a loaf of bread, bananas, or a 1.5 L bottle of water are well below U.S. averages. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
When planning a move in 2025, the affordability factor is a major plus—though it’s still wise to budget for property taxes, insurance, and transportation (particularly if commuting).

Economy and Job Market:

A significant driver of the local economy is the military presence—Fort Cavazos is a major regional employer and supports numerous ancillary businesses and services in Killeen and the surrounding area.
Beyond that, data show jobs across healthcare, retail trade, accommodation & food services, and public administration. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Killeen has also been investing in downtown revitalization and business growth: over 60 new businesses added more than 214 jobs in the downtown area with over $15.6 million in investment in 2023-24. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
While Killeen is not typically a tech-hub like Austin, its affordability and proximity to major corridors make it a viable relocation option especially for military-adjacent careers, logistics, healthcare and entry-to-mid-level professional roles.

Education:

Public K-12 education is primarily served by the Killeen Independent School District (KISD), which in the 2024-25 school year serves over 43,000 students across 51 campuses and spans around 356 square miles. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
For higher education, residents have access to local campuses and regional institutions within Central Texas—helping with workforce development and degree completion opportunities. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
For families evaluating a move in 2025, the schooling infrastructure is in place—but, as always, performance and offerings (magnet, CTE, Advanced Placement) will vary by school/zone.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

Killeen offers a mix of parks, trails and community events. The city reports more than 18 public parks and trails—including the Lions Club Hike & Bike Trail and Andy K. Wells Trail. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
A focal point is the downtown historic district, which has seen modest revitalization and hosts dining, shopping and cultural venues reflective of the region’s military-diverse population. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Outdoor options near Killeen include nearby lakes and nature areas—great for boating, fishing or hiking, appealing to those who enjoy the Central Texas landscape.
In 2025, while Killeen may not offer the density of amenities of a larger metro, it delivers strong value and a community-oriented feel for families and newcomers.

Healthcare and Services:

Residents in Killeen can access full-service healthcare. Major hospitals and clinics serve the region, including emergency and specialty care, along with local medical offices and urgent‐care facilities.
While specific provider names are not listed here, the infrastructure for primary and specialized healthcare is in place for a city of this size—something to verify by neighborhood and insurance provider when relocating.

Transportation:

Killeen lies along key regional routes—namely U.S. Highway 190/Interstate 14 and is within reach of I-35 and U.S. corridors linking to Austin and other Texas metros. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Public transit within Killeen is more limited compared to large metropolitan areas, so most residents rely on private vehicles for commuting and errands.
For air travel and wider connectivity, the region is served via nearby airports and regional air corridors—making domestic and some international access feasible.
When relocating in 2025, consider commute times, traffic during peak military-shift change hours, and vehicle/transportation costs.

Conclusion:

Moving to Killeen in 2025 offers a compelling mix of affordability, growth potential, and solid infrastructure. With an average home value around $218,500, an overall cost-of-living index about 10% below the U.S. average, and a supportive job market (especially for military-adjacent roles and service industries), Killeen presents a strong value proposition. Families and individuals seeking a Central Texas location with good access to major metros—but without the premium housing prices—will find Killeen an attractive relocation option. As always, evaluate specific neighborhoods, school zones, and commute patterns to ensure the community truly fits your lifestyle and objectives.