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Harker Heights, TX

Frequently asked questions

Harker Heights, TX

Harker Heights is a city in Bell County, Texas, United States. As of the 2020 census, 33,097 people resided in the city, up from a population of 17,308 in 2000. This makes Harker Heights the third-largest city in Bell County, after Killeen and Temple. Incorporated in 1960, the city derives its name from one of the two original landowners and founder, Harley Kern. Harker Heights is part of the Killeen–Temple–Fort Hood metropolitan area. People usually refer to the town as just "Heights".

Harker Heights is bordered by the city of Killeen to the west and Nolanville to the east. The city limits extend south to hills overlooking Stillhouse Hollow Lake on the Lampasas River. 

Interstate 14/U.S. Highway 190 is a four-lane freeway that passes through the city, connecting Killeen to the west with Interstate 35 in Belton 12 miles (19 km) to the east, at a point about halfway between Waco and Austin. 

According to the United States Census Bureau, Harker Heights has a total area of 15.2 square miles (39.4 km2), of which 0.04 square miles (0.1 km2), or 0.32%, is covered by water.

Harker Heights is located near Fort Cavazos, a major United States Army post that was designated a permanent military facility in 1950. As the post expanded, the surrounding civilian population increased. Water Control and Improvement District No. 4 was established on land near the Killeen city limits and the military post in 1955 and included the land owned by Pinckney R. Cox and Harley Kern, two hog farmers. These two men subdivided their land in 1957 and began selling lots. By 1960, between 600 and 700 of the lots had been developed and new residents were supplied with water and other utility services.

Harker Heights focuses on health and wellness. For those seeking medical care, Seton Medical Center Harker Heights is a leading healthcare provider in the region. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs offered by the Harker Heights Recreation and Community Services Department. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Colliers Fitness Express, Elevate Fitness, and Heights Athletic Club. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Harker Heights, such as the Purser Family Park and the Skipcha Park. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Harker Heights, TX include Carl Levin Park, Dana Peak Park, and Stillhouse Hollow Lake.

Population: 35,263 (2024). ZIP codes: 76542, 76543, 76548. Area code: 254. Elevation: 682 ft (208 m). Area: 15.66 sq mi (40.55 km2).

FAQs

Is Harker Heights, TX a good place to live?

Harker Heights is in Bell County and is one of the best places to live in Texas. Living in Harker Heights offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Harker Heights, there are a lot of parks. Many families and young professionals live in Harker Heights and residents tend to have moderate political views. 

What is the crime rate in Harker Heights, TX?

The crime rate in Harker Heights is considerably higher than the national average across all communities in America from the largest to the smallest, although at 16 crimes per one thousand residents, it is not among the communities with the very highest crime rate. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Harker Heights is 1 in 64. Based on FBI crime data, Harker Heights is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to Texas, Harker Heights has a crime rate that is higher than 64% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.

How did Harker Heights, TX get its name?

Harker Heights is one of the youngest cities in Central Texas. Founded in 1960, Harker Heights got its name by taking the first three letters of Harley Kern's first and last names. Harley Kern was a hog farmer and one of the original landowners who sold his land for the town to be possible.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Harker Heights

Seton Medical Center Harker Heights 

Harker Heights Recreation and Community Services Department

Colliers Fitness Express

Elevate Fitness

Heights Athletic Club

Purser Family Park

Skipcha Park

Carl Levin Park

Dana Peak Park

Stillhouse Hollow Lake

Niche

Neighborhoodscout

Discovercentraltexas

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