Killeen, TX, is a city with a population of around 153,000 people, located in the heart of Texas, approximately 70 miles north of Austin. The city has a diverse economy, with major industries including healthcare, education, and retail, and is home to Fort Hood, one of the largest military bases in the world.
The city's proximity to Austin and its relatively low cost of living make it an attractive option for people looking to relocate to the area. However, like any city, Killeen has its pros and cons, and it's essential to weigh these factors before deciding if it's the right place for you. In this article, we'll delve into the various aspects of living in Killeen, including the cost of living, job market, neighborhoods, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Killeen is relatively low compared to other cities in the United States. The median home price is around $170,000, with prices ranging from $120,000 to over $300,000, depending on the location and size of the property. Renters can expect to pay around $1,100 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, while a three-bedroom house can cost upwards of $1,500 per month.
Utilities, such as electricity, water, and gas, are relatively affordable, with the average monthly cost for a single person being around $150. Taxes in Killeen are also reasonable, with a sales tax rate of 8.25% and a property tax rate of around 1.5%. However, it's worth noting that the city has a relatively high cost of transportation, with the average commute time being around 25 minutes, and gas prices being around $2.75 per gallon.
Job Market
The job market in Killeen is diverse, with major employers including Fort Hood, the Killeen Independent School District, and several healthcare providers, such as Metroplex Hospital and Seton Medical Center. The city also has a growing retail sector, with several shopping centers, including the Killeen Mall and the Market Heights shopping center.
The unemployment rate in Killeen is around 4.5%, which is slightly higher than the national average. However, the city has a relatively high number of job openings, particularly in the healthcare and education sectors. Remote work viability is also a possibility in Killeen, with several coworking spaces and coffee shops with reliable internet connectivity. Companies such as IBM, 3M, and Raytheon have a presence in the city, offering various job opportunities.
Neighborhoods
Killeen has several neighborhoods to choose from, each with its unique character and advantages. The Robinson neighborhood, located in the 76541 ZIP code, is a popular area with relatively affordable housing options, ranging from $150,000 to over $250,000. The neighborhood has a walk score of 35, indicating that it's car-dependent, but it's close to several amenities, including the Killeen Mall and the Killeen Civic and Conference Center.
Another neighborhood worth considering is the Youngsport area, located in the 76542 ZIP code. This neighborhood has a more rural feel, with larger properties and a lower population density. Home prices in Youngsport range from $200,000 to over $400,000, and the neighborhood has a walk score of 20, indicating that it's heavily car-dependent. However, it's close to several outdoor recreational areas, including the Stillhouse Hollow Lake and the Nolan Creek hiking trail.
Safety
Killeen has a relatively high crime rate compared to other cities of similar size. According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, the city had a violent crime rate of around 410 incidents per 100,000 people in 2022, which is higher than the national average. However, it's worth noting that most crimes in Killeen are property-related, such as burglary and theft, and violent crimes are relatively rare.
Certain areas of the city are considered safer than others, such as the neighborhoods around the Fort Hood military base. However, areas such as the Downtown area, located in the 76541 ZIP code, have a higher crime rate and should be avoided at night. It's essential to take necessary precautions, such as locking doors and windows, and being aware of your surroundings, especially in high-crime areas.
Schools
The Killeen Independent School District (KISD) serves the city of Killeen, with several top-rated schools, including the Killeen High School, which has a rating of 7 out of 10. Other notable schools in the district include the Ellison High School, which has a rating of 6 out of 10, and the Harker Heights High School, which has a rating of 8 out of 10.
In addition to public schools, Killeen also has several private school options, such as the Killeen Christian Academy and the Holy Trinity Catholic High School. These schools offer a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities, and have a reputation for providing high-quality education. The KISD district rating is 5 out of 10, but individual schools within the district may have higher or lower ratings.
Lifestyle and Things to Do
Killeen has a relatively low-key lifestyle, with several outdoor recreational areas, such as the Stillhouse Hollow Lake and the Nolan Creek hiking trail. The city also has a growing food scene, with several restaurants serving a range of cuisines, including Tex-Mex, barbecue, and Asian fusion. Some popular restaurants in the area include the Downtown area's Andy's Kitchen and the Fort Hood area's Clear Creek Exchange Food Court.
However, Killeen has a limited nightlife scene, with few bars and clubs in the area. The city also has a relatively high summer temperature, with temperatures often reaching over 100°F in July and August. Additionally, the city experiences a moderate level of air pollution, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of around 50, which is slightly higher than the national average.
The Verdict
Killeen, TX, is a city that offers a relatively low cost of living, a diverse economy, and several outdoor recreational areas. However, it also has its downsides, including a relatively high crime rate and limited nightlife scene. Ultimately, whether or not Killeen is a good place to live depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you value a low cost of living, a diverse economy, and a relatively low-key lifestyle, then Killeen may be the right city for you.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a city with a vibrant nightlife scene, a wide range of cultural attractions, and a high level of air quality, then Killeen may not be the best fit. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons of living in Killeen and consider factors such as your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences before making a decision.
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