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Killeen, TX

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Killeen, TX

Killeen is a city in the U.S. state of Texas, located in Bell County. According to the 2020 census, its population was 153,095, making it the 19th-most populous city in Texas and the largest of the three principal cities of Bell County. It is the principal city of the Killeen–Temple–Fort Cavazos Metropolitan Statistical Area. Killeen is 55 miles (89 km) north of Austin, 125 miles (201 km) southwest of Dallas, and 125 miles (201 km) northeast of San Antonio. Killeen is directly adjacent to the main cantonment of Fort Cavazos. Its economy depends on the activities of the post, and the soldiers and their families stationed there. It is known as a military "boom town" because of its rapid growth and high influx of soldiers.

In 1881, the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railway extended its tracks through central Texas, buying 360 acres (1.5 km2) a few miles southwest of a small farming community known as Palo Alto, which had existed since about 1872. The railroad platted a 70-block town on its land and named it after Frank P. Killeen, the assistant general manager of the railroad. By the next year, the town included a railroad depot, a saloon, several stores, and a school. Many of the residents of the surrounding smaller communities in the area moved to Killeen. By 1884, the town had grown to include about 350 people, served by five general stores, two gristmills, two cotton gins, two saloons, a lumberyard, a blacksmith shop, and a hotel.

Killeen expanded as it became an important shipping point for cotton, wool, and grain in western Bell and eastern Coryell Counties. By 1900, its population was about 780.

Around 1905, local politicians and businessmen convinced the Texas legislature to build bridges over Cowhouse Creek and other streams, doubling Killeen's trade area. A public water system began operation in 1914 and its population had increased to 1,300 residents.

Killeen is located in western Bell County at 31°6′20″N 97°43′36″W (31.105591, −97.726586). It is bordered to the north by Fort Cavazos and to the east by Harker Heights. Killeen is 16 miles (26 km) west of Belton, the county seat and nearest access to Interstate 35. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 54.2 square miles (140.5 km2), of which 53.6 square miles (138.8 km2) is land and 0.66 square miles (1.7 km2), or 1.24%, is covered by water.

Killeen places a strong emphasis on health and wellness, offering residents access to various facilities and programs. The Killeen Family Recreation Center is a cornerstone for fitness classes, sports activities, and wellness programs for residents of all ages. The city's commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle is further underscored by its numerous parks and recreational areas, such as Lions Club Park and Long Branch Park, providing ample spaces for outdoor activities and relaxation. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include BEFIT Killeen, Warriors Gym, and Anytime Fitness. Furthermore, Killeen boasts an array of healthcare facilities, including the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, ensuring residents have access to quality medical services. The city actively engages in community events and initiatives that encourage healthy living, making it an ideal place for individuals and families seeking a balanced and active lifestyle.

Top sites in Killeen, TX are Stonetree Golf Club, Skydive Skylark, and 1st Cavalry Division Museum.

Population: 159,643 (2023). ZIP code: 76549. Area code: 254. Elevation: 890 ft (270 m). Area: 54.2 square miles (140.5 km2).

FAQs

What is Killeen, TX famous for?

Killeen, Texas, is a place of many possibilities. This Central Texas town is perhaps best known for its northern neighbor that just so happens to be one of the largest military installations in the world: Fort Hood. Killeen is also home to one of the few planetariums in Texas, as well as a performing arts theater that produces plays and musicals year-round. 

Is Killeen, TX expensive?

The median home price in Killeen is $220,000 with a median price per sqft of $131. The cost of living index for housing estimates the cost of housing in Killeen to be 88.7% of the national average. This makes it an average US city.

Is Killeen, TX a nice place to live?

Living in Killeen offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents rent their homes. In Killeen, there are a lot of parks. Many families live in Killeen and residents tend to lean liberal. The public schools in Killeen are above average.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Killeen

Killeen Family Recreation Center 

Long Branch Park

BEFIT Killeen

Warriors Gym

Anytime Fitness

Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center

Stonetree Golf Club

Skydive Skylark

1st Cavalry Division Museum

Tour Texas

Zero Down

Niche

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