Deep in the heart of the Lone Star State lies the growing town of Killeen, Texas. Sixty-five miles north of Austin, this town of 130,000 residents enjoys the perks of both a big city experience and small town country charm. Best known as the home of Fort Hood military base, this town seeks to build on its roots as a trading depot and continues to be one of the fastest growing areas in the state.
Killeen houses nearly 60,000 members of the military, with Fort Hood serving as the largest employer in the area. University campuses of both Texas A&M as well as Tarleton State University add to the diverse mix of residents from around the country.
With the State Capital just down the road, there is never a shortage of events and activities. But don't jet out of town just yet! Killeen has plenty to do in and around town, including outdoor adventures such as hunting, hiking, and fishing at nearby Belton Lake. Public transportation is available in Killeen, and even extends to the neighboring towns of Copperas Cove, Harker Heights, and the Temple-Belton area. Housing is readily available in a variety of options and the cost of living remains lower than the national average.
Killeen offers a bit of everything for entertaining the whole family and their pets, too! A growing Parks and Recreation department offers community centers, an aquatic center, a two-acre dog park, a public fitness center and the recently renovated Stonetree Golf Course. After a refreshing swim or round of golf, make sure to visit (with earplugs, of course) the Texas Thunder Speedway. If you're looking for a slower pace to your day, check out the local farmers' market and sample the diverse offerings from the regional food trucks. The market showcases central Texas farmers, as well as only-in-Texas items such as snakes, iguanas, and scorpions for sale! The town helps play host to the annual Central Texas State Fair, drawing visitors from all over the state to enjoy local artists, musicians, and can't-miss bull riding. The event is held over three days in September and regularly draws between 25,000 and 30,000 visitors.
