Real Estate Investing in Killeen, Texas
Everything the listing leaves out — vacancy, rent trend, cap rate, landlord climate. All free.
Should you buy in Killeen, TX? Our answer, based on the numbers below.
For Homebuyers
MIXED
Grade C (63/100)
Mixed signals — some positives, some negatives. Worth considering but not a slam-dunk.
For Investors
MIXED
3.0 / 5
(52/100)
A cash-flow market — rent-to-price math works from day one, though value growth is modest. Great for income-focused investors.
Risks to Know
1 flag
- Elevated vacancy: 10.0% vacancy may signal weakening demand.
What’s happening in Killeen, TX?
Click any question — our AI will research it live from the web and show you sources.
🏦 30-yr Fixed Rate:
6.76%
as of Sep 10
Source: Freddie Mac PMMS
Avg Investability
★★★★★
Avg Home Value
$196,057
Avg Monthly Rent
$1,227
ZIP Codes
4
Market Trends — Killeen, TX
Home Value History
Rent History
Local Pulse Report
AI-researched developments and news for Killeen, TX. Updated on demand as visitors ask.
Growth & development in Killeen, TX Updated 144 days ago
Killeen is experiencing significant growth with numerous construction projects, new businesses, and infrastructure improvements, particularly in downtown revitalization and housing.
Opportunities
- Killeen has 819 registered construction projects valued at $1.68 billion, including 378 new constructions. — This indicates substantial investment and expansion in the built environment. Zabalist
- Over 62 new businesses and 214 jobs have been added to Downtown Killeen, with $15.6 million invested in 2023-2024. — This revitalizes the historic district and expands local commerce and employment. Killeen, TX City Website
- The city has opened the newly rebuilt Bunny Trail Road, improving a key transportation corridor. — This enhances safety, drainage, and traffic flow for residents and commuters. KCENTV.com
- South Killeen is seeing rapid housing growth with developments like Turnbo Ranch (3,000 homes) and The Preserve at Thousand Oaks (1,200 homes). — This increases housing options and accommodates the city's growing population. Shelly Salas Real Estate
- Several new businesses, including a Crunch Fitness, LongHorn Steakhouse, QuikTrip, HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, and Five Below, are under construction in Killeen and Harker Heights, expected to open in 2026. — These additions provide more shopping, dining, and fitness choices for residents.
Concerns
- LL Flooring in Killeen was among 211 stores nationwide closing due to bankruptcy in September 2024. — This reduces local retail options and results in job losses. B106
- The Rancier Avenue project, while approved for funding, will not begin construction for several years. — This delays needed improvements to a busy corridor, prolonging current traffic and safety concerns. KCENTV.com
Bottom line: Killeen is experiencing robust development in infrastructure, housing, and downtown revitalization, despite some retail closures.
Local news & events in Killeen, TX Updated 144 days ago
Killeen has seen ongoing community events and efforts to address resident concerns, alongside persistent challenges in public safety and air quality.
Opportunities
- Killeen residents rated satisfaction levels above the national average in public safety, emergency response, water services, and trash collection in a November 2025 survey. — This indicates effective provision of essential city services, improving daily life for residents. City of Killeen
- The Killeen Fire Department received high acclaim in a November 2025 survey, with 85% praising professionalism and 80% commending customer service. — Strong fire department performance enhances community safety and resident confidence. City of Killeen
- Killeen Independent School District reported 79 fewer crime incidents in the 2024-25 school year compared to the previous year. — A decrease in school crime creates a safer learning environment for students and reduces parental worry. 25 News KXXV
- The annual Celebrate Killeen Festival, a free, three-day event, has been enjoyed for over 40 years, offering family-friendly entertainment. — These events provide accessible entertainment and foster community cohesion. Tour Texas, City of Killeen
- The City of Killeen joined the Cen-Tex Sustainability Partnership for Environmental Month in March 2026. — This partnership can lead to improved environmental initiatives and a healthier community. City of Killeen
Concerns
- Killeen-Temple, TX ranked 64th worst for high ozone days out of 226 metropolitan areas in the 'State of the Air' 2026 report. — Poor air quality, particularly ozone, poses significant health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. American Lung Association
- A December 2022 report stated that roughly half of the 37 murders in Killeen since January 2021 remained unsolved. — Unsolved violent crimes can erode public trust in safety and create a sense of insecurity. 25 News KXXV
- A November 2025 survey showed an overall decrease in citizen satisfaction from 2023, now at 61%, with residents pinpointing street maintenance, code enforcement, police services, and animal control as key areas for impr… — Declining satisfaction and identified issues suggest unmet resident needs and potential for diminished quality of life. City of Killeen
- Killeen's violent crime rate is among the highest in the nation, with a 1 in 188 chance of becoming a victim. — High violent crime rates restrict personal freedom and safety, impacting daily activities and well-being. NeighborhoodScout
- About 92% of buildings in Killeen, TX are at risk of wildfire, and 12% are at risk of flooding, with these risks projected to increase through 2050. — Increased environmental hazards pose a threat to property and personal safety, potentially leading to displacement or financial burdens. ClimateCheck
Bottom line: Killeen residents experience a mix of improving city services and persistent challenges in public safety and environmental health, with ongoing community engagement efforts.
Schools in Killeen, TX Updated 144 days ago
Killeen ISD is undergoing significant facility upgrades and program adjustments while maintaining a "Superior" financial rating, despite a slight dip in its overall academic score.
Opportunities
- Killeen ISD received its 23rd consecutive "Superior Achievement" rating in state fiscal accountability for the 2023-2024 school year. — This demonstrates excellent financial management and transparency, ensuring responsible use of taxpayer money. Killeen ISD
- Voters approved three bond propositions in November 2025 for general facility improvements ($75.65M), safety/technology upgrades ($1.35M), and instructional technology ($6.5M). — These bonds provide significant funding for modernizing facilities and technology, enhancing learning environments and safety. kcentv.com
- Killeen ISD is renovating a new administration building, consolidating 22 departments from 10 buildings, projected to save $315,000 annually. — This consolidation improves efficiency and centralizes services for families and staff, leading to long-term operational savings. Killeen ISD
- The YES (Young Engaged Scholars) enrichment program expanded in its second year (2025-2026) for 3rd, 4th, and 6th graders. — This free program offers additional academic and fine arts learning opportunities, fostering student growth and creativity. Killeen ISD
- Killeen High School completed multi-phased renovations and additions, including new classrooms, a cafeteria, gym, and updated CTE spaces. — This revitalization provides modern learning environments and expanded facilities for current and future students. PBK Architects
Concerns
- Killeen ISD's overall accountability rating for 2024-2025 is a 'C' with a score of 74, a slight decrease from 75 in 2023-2024. — A declining overall rating suggests potential areas for improvement in student learning and preparedness. TX Schools
- The district plans to close Peebles Elementary, Eastern Hills Middle, and Palo Alto Middle schools at the end of the 2025-2026 school year. — School closures can disrupt communities and displace students, requiring rezoning and adjustments for families. Killeen ISD
- Killeen ISD is ending Pre-K3 programs at campuses on Fort Hood at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 school year. — This cut reduces early childhood education options for military families. Killeen ISD
- The district is pursuing an 1882 Texas Partnerships turnaround partner for Manor Middle School due to its performance. — This indicates a need for significant intervention and change in school management, potentially impacting staff and students. Killeen ISD
- Killeen ISD's budget for 2025-2026 includes a planned 0.61% deficit of approximately $4.2 million in the general fund. — Operating with a deficit, even if covered by fund balance, indicates expenditures exceeding revenues, which is not sustainable long-term. Killeen ISD
Bottom line: Killeen ISD is investing in facilities and new programs while facing challenges in academic performance and school closures.
Civic & policy in Killeen, TX Updated 144 days ago
Killeen has seen significant government activity, including property tax increases, new junk vehicle regulations, and ongoing legal battles over marijuana decriminalization.
Opportunities
- The Killeen City Council adopted a $315.0 million budget for fiscal year 2025, including new staffing and public safety upgrades. — This investment aims to improve essential city services and enhance overall quality of life for residents. City of Killeen
- The Killeen Planning, Zoning, and Engineering application process moved to an online portal (My Government Online) effective September 18, 2024. — This streamlines the permit and inspection process for contractors and citizens, making it more efficient. City of Killeen
- The City Council approved new operational hours for Municipal Court and Utility Collections offices, adopting a four-day, 10-hour work week starting April 6, 2026. — Extended daily hours for these services may offer greater flexibility and accessibility for residents. City of Killeen
- The City of Killeen is seeking public input on its ADA Transition Plan to improve accessibility for city services. — This initiative aims to create a more inclusive community by addressing barriers and enhancing access for all residents. City of Killeen
- An ordinance passed on July 21, 2025, allows for multi-family and mixed uses in business districts and provides for small lot regulations. — These zoning amendments could lead to more diverse housing options and potentially more affordable living. City of Killeen
Concerns
- The Killeen City Council approved an 8% property tax rate increase for the fiscal year 2025, raising the average homeowner's bill by about $183 annually. — This increase imposes additional costs on homeowners, potentially straining household budgets. Reddit, KCEN-TV
- New junk vehicle regulations, effective December 2, 2025, ban the open storage of nuisance vehicles, with potential fines up to $200 and city abatement costs. — These regulations impose new rules and potential financial penalties on residents regarding vehicle storage on private property. kcentv.com, City of Killeen
- The City Council is considering allocating additional funds to defend against a lawsuit from Bell County over a voter-approved marijuana decriminalization measure. — This ongoing legal battle incurs unconsented costs for taxpayers and challenges a voter-approved initiative. KCENTV.com
- The Killeen City Council voted to move the general election date from May 2026 to November 2027, and subsequent elections to November in odd years. — This change alters the established election cycle, potentially affecting voter participation and representation. YouTube
- The City Council updated the Senior Citizen Utility Bill Assistance Program requirements in February 2026, adding new eligibility and documentation. — New requirements for assistance programs can create barriers for eligible residents seeking support. City of Killeen
Bottom line: Killeen residents face increased property taxes and new regulations, alongside efforts to improve city services and accessibility.
AI-generated from public web sources. Always verify with official records. Not financial, legal, or investment advice.
A great house in the wrong ZIP is still a bad deal — screen every market by cash flow & cap rate.
Open the Market Finder →Free to search · investor plans from $19/mo
The wrong ZIP kills a good deal — screen every market.
Open the Market Finder →
Best ZIP codes in Killeen-Temple, TX
Killeen is part of this metro. Every ZIP in it, ranked. Free.
Landlord Ground Truth
Real numbers from people who own or manage rentals in Killeen, TX. Anonymous, moderated, never written by AI.
Do you own or manage rentals in Killeen, TX?
~25 seconds · no account needed · your report is anonymous
Avg Home Value
$196,057
Avg Monthly Rent
$1,227
1% Rule
✗ Below
Landlord Friendly (TX)
★★★★★
🎓 Colleges & Universities in Killeen
3 Colleges
10,489 Students
3,931 Off-Campus Renters
C+
4-Year Public · 2,255 students
📍 ~376 students rent off-campus
C
2-Year Public · 8,192 students
📍 ~3,555 students rent off-campus
C
Vocational For-Profit · 42 students
Investor Insight: With 3,931 students living off-campus, Killeen has substantial rental demand from the college population — typically stable, lease-renewing tenants.
Neighborhoods in Killeen
Bellaire Heights
4 ZIP codes
Bridgewood
4 ZIP codes
Brighton Place
4 ZIP codes
Brookhaven
4 ZIP codes
Bunny Ranch
4 ZIP codes
Castle Heights
4 ZIP codes
Cedar Hill
4 ZIP codes
Chantz
4 ZIP codes
Chimney Corners
4 ZIP codes
Chimney Hill
4 ZIP codes
Clear Creek
4 ZIP codes
Condor Valley
4 ZIP codes
Copper Mountain
4 ZIP codes
Copperfield
4 ZIP codes
Eagle Valley
4 ZIP codes
Evening Hollow
4 ZIP codes
Fairway
4 ZIP codes
Fox Creek
4 ZIP codes
Goodnight Ranch
4 ZIP codes
Haynes
4 ZIP codes
ZIP Codes in Killeen, TX
Screen every ZIP in Killeen
Filter Killeen’s ZIPs by cap rate, vacancy, appreciation and 30+ more criteria, and export your shortlist to CSV — with the Investor plan ($19/mo).
View PlansFrequently Asked Questions About Killeen, TX
What is the median home value in Killeen, TX?
Typical homes in Killeen, TX go for around $196K. The 5-year CAGR of 0.0% predictable price movement.
Is the tenant base reliable in Killeen, TX?
The renter base in Killeen, TX is reasonable for the $1,227/mo price point. Screening well and pricing to market typically yields reliable tenants.
Is Killeen in TX worth investing in?
Our data puts Killeen, TX at 3.0/5 for investability. Home prices of $196K and rents around $1,227/mo create a solid backdrop for investor activity.
How much do tenants pay in Killeen, TX?
Expect rents around $1,227/mo per month in Killeen, TX. With home values at $196K, the yield math works out to reasonable levels for rental investors.
Can owner-occupants cash flow in Killeen, TX?
Killeen, TX offers a challenging house-hacking opportunity. Small multifamily or rent-by-the-room plays can pair well with the $1,227/mo rent level.
Community Ratings
What people who’ve spent time here actually say. Not paid reviews.
Be the first to rate Killeen, TX.
It takes 30 seconds. No signup. Your rating helps everyone who comes here after you.