Where Should You Live In Killeen Texas? [Killeen Map Explained]

Hello — I’m Matt Dick with Military Living in Central Texas. If you’re thinking about moving to Killeen, Texas (maybe you’ve got PCS orders to Fort Hood, or you’re a Texan looking for a change), this guide walks you through everything I covered in my Killeen map tour. I break Killeen down into the three main areas I always point people to — North, East, and West Killeen — and show the housing ranges, commute options to Fort Hood, where to eat, what to do for family fun, outdoor spots, and where to get medical care. Whether you’re moving to Killeen, Texas next month or planning a future relocation, this post is designed to help you make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

• Introduction to Killeen, TX
• Map Overview of Killeen
• North Killeen Housing Options
• East Killeen Housing Market
• West Killeen Housing & Community
• Medical Facilities in Killeen
• Food & Dining in Killeen
• Entertainment & Activities in Killeen
• Outdoor Recreation & Parks in Killeen
• How to Decide Where to Live When Moving to Killeen, Texas
• Questions I Ask Buyers Moving to Killeen, Texas
• FAQs About Moving to Killeen, Texas
• Final Thoughts

Introduction to Killeen, TX

Moving to Killeen, Texas brings you into the heart of Central Texas and puts Fort Hood (Fort Cavazos) within easy reach. Killeen sits almost equidistant between Austin and Dallas-Fort Worth, making it a convenient home base if you want to explore the rest of the state on weekends. If you’re military or civilian and you’re evaluating neighborhoods, I break everything down into clear chunks so you don’t have to guess where to start.

Quick snapshot of why people relocate to Killeen:

• Proximity to Fort Hood (quick commutes from several parts of town)
• Housing options from very affordable to higher-end subdivisions
• Access to parks, lakes, family activities, and local dining
• Medical resources both on post and in nearby communities

If you’re moving to Killeen, Texas with a family, the choices you make about neighborhood and nearby amenities can really shape daily life. Below I lay out what to expect in each area and show examples of homes and price ranges so you can visualize your options.

VIEW HOMES AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN KILLEEN, TEXAS

Map Overview of Killeen

Before we dive into neighborhoods, I created a Google My Maps layout that helps visualize Killeen’s three zones: North Killeen, East Killeen, and West Killeen. The lines I drew aren’t perfect, but they’re practical for understanding where most people live and how they commute to Fort Hood.

Why I divide Killeen this way:

• Each area has different housing stock (age, style, price).
• Access to major roads and Fort Hood gates varies by area.
• Shopping, parks, and medical facilities cluster in predictable places.

FIND YOUR HOME NEAR FORT HOOD (FORT CAVAZOS)

North Killeen Housing Options

North Killeen (north of Highway 14) is a big, mixed bag — you’ll find everything from small mid-century homes to brand-new builds. If affordable housing is the priority, North Killeen is one of the areas to watch.

What to expect in North Killeen:

• Homes built from the 1950s through new construction (even listings with 2025 year-built).
• Price range commonly from the low $50–$70k side up to $250–$300k depending on condition and lot.
• Convenient routes to Fort Hood via local roads that drop onto post; 14 also connects you to Belton, Temple, and Copperas Cove.

I walked through an example listing priced around $190,000 in this area. It had been flipped — you could tell from the updated flooring and modernized finishes — and included solar panels and a backyard backing to green space. Virtual staging was used inside, which I know some people love and some people don’t.

Notes and tips when home shopping in North Killeen:

• Watch for hardy board exteriors. Texas sun and humidity can affect material longevity, so ask about maintenance history.
• If you see solar panels, verify ownership (owned vs. leased) and check the age of the system.
• Many homes in this price bracket will be 3-bed/2.5-bath with bedrooms upstairs — good for families but ask about HVAC and roof age.

Practical Commute Considerations

North Killeen’s routes into Fort Hood are straightforward. If you prioritize a short in-town commute and want the cheapest housing, North Killeen is worth exploring. However, expect some variety in neighborhood upkeep and be thorough with inspections.

East Killeen Housing Market

East Killeen is where most of the shopping, parks, and big-box stores are clustered. If you want the convenience of retail and restaurants nearby — plus access to parks like Dana Peak or Cedar Gap and Stillhouse Hollow Lake a short drive away — East Killeen is attractive.

Housing range in East Killeen:

• Entry-level homes around $125k
• Mid-range to newer builds ranging well into $400–$600k
• Higher-end properties in newer subdivisions can run $1.2M+ depending on lot and upgrades

I toured a newer neighborhood in East Killeen (the homes have features many buyers want): three-car garages, prominent entry doors, rock fireplaces, islands in the kitchen, and modern open-concept living spaces. These homes are turnkey for families and make entertaining easy.

Design highlights I saw in East Killeen houses:

• Open-concept layouts with kitchen islands and sightlines to living areas
• Tray ceilings and larger master suites with double vanities
• Outdoor back porches suitable for gatherings

Personal take: I love the entry doors and finishes in many East Killeen builds. These neighborhoods appeal to buyers who want modern comforts and easy access to retail and recreation. If you’re moving to Killeen, Texas and prefer a newer house with handy amenities, East Killeen should sit high on your list.

West Killeen Housing & Community

West Killeen hugs the Clear Creek corridor and funnels straight into Fort Hood, so it’s popular with active-duty families. You’ll find a mix of retail, restaurants, barbers, medical facilities, and everything else you need on that corridor.

Housing in West Killeen:

• Entry-level homes as low as the $90k range
• Many mid-range neighborhoods between $250–$400k (e.g., Vallejo Ranch and similar subdivisions)
• Higher-end homes can reach $500–$600k depending on upgrades and lot size

Example home walkthrough: a roughly $300k listing showed an open entry, mirrored dining area, office and dining room up front, and a cozy kitchen with eat-at bar. The living room featured a rock fireplace. Backyard space in many West Killeen homes is generous — ideal for kids and dogs.

What buyers appreciate in West Killeen:

• Very straight shot to Fort Hood (great for active-duty commutes)
• Good balance of affordability and family-friendly neighborhoods
• Plenty of shopping and services along Clear Creek

Considerations for Military Families

If you’re moving to Killeen, Texas with PCS orders, West Killeen’s commute into Fort Hood is one of its biggest advantages. However, depending on the exact gate and your work location on post, traffic patterns can vary. Always do a practice drive during rush hour if you can.

Medical Facilities in Killeen

Access to medical care is a major factor when relocating. Killeen and the surrounding area have a good mix of civilian clinics, pharmacies, and post-based medical services. The Scott & White (Temple) hospital campus is technically in Harker Heights but sits on the edge and serves the area.

Key medical points:

• Fort Hood’s hospital serves active-duty needs — check TRICARE rules for specifics.
• There are Baylor Scott & White family clinics near the dealerships and retail corridor — convenient for civilian care.
• Local pharmacies are plentiful along Clear Creek and in shopping centers.

Tip: If you’re moving to Killeen, Texas and rely on specialty care, identify the nearest clinics and ask about wait times and referral processes. For families, it’s worth locating urgent care centers and pediatric clinics near your preferred neighborhood.

Food & Dining in Killeen

One of my favorite things about Killeen is the local dining scene. There are a lot of great spots, and while I’ve only dotted the map with places I personally love, the city has more hidden gems worth trying.

My personal recommendation for a budget-friendly lunch: Mission Taco. For around $10 you can get five tacos and a drink — a perfect quick option if you’re on base or running errands.

Other dining notes:

• Clear Creek corridor and the east retail centers have a concentration of chain and local restaurants.
• Ask locals for recommendations — Killeen residents often have their favorite late-night taco spot or family diner.
• If you’re moving to Killeen, Texas and love trying new places, budget a few weekends to walk the corridors and sample the food.

Entertainment & Activities in Killeen

For family fun and entertainment, Killeen has a good variety — bowling alleys, movie theaters, trampoline parks, and family arcades. If you have kids, there are options to burn off energy or host birthday parties.

Highlights:

• Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park — great for kids 5–12 to burn off energy.
• Bowling alleys and local movie theaters for family nights.
• Chuck E. Cheese for younger kids (my son asked me to include it — so here it is!)

There’s also a climbing gym (Boulders Climbing Center) across in Harker Heights. If you have climbers in the family, it’s worth the short drive for a change of pace.

Outdoor Recreation & Parks in Killeen

One of the perks of living here is the outdoor access. Parks, walking trails, and lakes are very close — great if you like biking, hiking, running, or water recreation.

Popular spots:

• Lions Club Park — ballfields, playgrounds, walking paths, and community events. This was where I adopted my dog back in 2013, so it’s a personal favorite.
• Dana Peak Park and Stillhouse Hollow Lake — a short drive and good for boating, fishing, and outdoor fun.
• Neighborhood walking paths and smaller parks sprinkled throughout East and West Killeen.

If you enjoy lakeside weekends, Dana Peak and Stillhouse Hollow give you water access without the long drives common in other parts of the state. For runners and cyclists, many neighborhoods include sidewalks and trails for safer workouts.

How to Decide Where to Live When Moving to Killeen, Texas

Here’s a practical checklist I use with clients moving to Killeen, Texas. It helps narrow choices quickly:

1. Define commute expectations to Fort Hood (which gate will you use most?).
2. Prioritize schools or childcare options if you have kids.
3. Decide how much shopping/dining convenience matters (East Killeen wins for that).
4. Set a realistic budget — North Killeen usually has the lowest entry prices; West balances commute and affordability; East has newer and higher-end options.
5. Schedule at least one drive-through during peak commute times to check traffic and gate backups.
6. Always get a home inspection — check A/C, roof, and exterior material condition (hardy board watch!).

These steps help you avoid surprises and pick a neighborhood that fits daily life instead of just aesthetics.

Questions I Ask Buyers Moving to Killeen, Texas

When I work with buyers, I focus on what daily life will look like in addition to the neighborhood aesthetics. Here are my go-to questions:

• How long do you want your commute to be each day?
• Do you need proximity to certain Fort Hood gates or specific schools?
• How important are newer construction and modern finishes versus affordability?
• Do you want big yards for pets and kids, or is low-maintenance living preferred?

Answering those upfront lets me zero in on listings in North, East, or West Killeen that make sense and save you time on house tours.

FAQs About Moving to Killeen, Texas

What’s the commute to Fort Hood like?

It depends on your neighborhood and the gate you use. West Killeen along Clear Creek gives you a near-straight shot onto post, while North and East also have easy routes via Highway 14 and local roads. Rush hour can add time, so I recommend doing a practice drive if possible.

Where are the most affordable neighborhoods?

North Killeen tends to have the most affordable entry-level housing. You can find fixer-uppers as well as updated flips. West Killeen also has good budget options, especially near older subdivisions.

Is East Killeen better for newer homes?

Yes. East Killeen has a concentration of newer builds and subdivisions with modern finishes and larger lots. If you want new construction, East Killeen is a primary area to consider.

What if I need medical care off-post?

There are Baylor Scott & White family clinics and pharmacies in and around the Clear Creek retail corridor. Scott & White’s hospital in Harker Heights serves the region and is close by.

Are there good schools and parks?

Yes. Killeen ISD and surrounding districts have a range of school options depending on the neighborhood. Parks like Lions Club Park and recreational areas by Stillhouse Hollow Lake offer excellent outdoor activities.

How does the housing market look right now?

The market varies by neighborhood. You’ll see homes priced from the low tens of thousands up to the mid-seven-figures in exclusive builds. Inventory changes quickly, so if you’re moving to Killeen, Texas and actively house hunting, work with a local agent like me who monitors listings daily.

Final Thoughts

Moving to Killeen, Texas is a smart move for many: affordable housing options, proximity to Fort Hood, and a surprising variety of amenities for a mid-sized Central Texas city. Whether you favor the affordability of North Killeen, the convenience and modern neighborhoods of East Killeen, or the straight-shot commute and community atmosphere of West Killeen, there’s a neighborhood that will match your priorities.

If you want help narrowing down neighborhoods or touring homes, I’d be happy to help. My team and I specialize in helping military families and civilians relocate to Central Texas quickly and smoothly — whether that’s in 9 days or 90 days. Call/text me at 253-820-7327  for a personalized map tour or to discuss neighborhoods that fit your budget and lifestyle.

Safe travels, and welcome to Central Texas — it’s a great place to call home.