Killeen, TX
Population 156,144 · Texas
About Killeen, TX
Killeen is a major city located in Texas with a population of 156,144 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $58,339 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 30 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Killeen features a median home value of $196,000, which is 20% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Killeen in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,147, 1% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 65,809 total housing units, 49% are owner-occupied (29,103 units) and 51% are renter-occupied (30,721 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Killeen shows an unemployment rate of 10.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Killeen have an average one-way commute time of 24.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
22.0% of Killeen residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 14.2% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 8.9% Black or African American, and 4.1% Asian residents, with 9.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How Killeen Ranks in Texas
Cost of Living in Killeen, TX
Compared to national averages, Killeen has a median household income of $58,339 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $196,000, which is 20% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,147 is 1% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, Killeen's income is 20% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 7% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in Killeen, TX?
Killeen offers affordable housing with a median home value of $196,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,147/month, and short commute times averaging just 24.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,339) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Killeen provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Killeen has a population of 156,144 with a median age of 30 years. Compare Killeen with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near Killeen
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pasadena | 149,345 | $64,270 | $193,600 | Compare |
| Denton | 146,987 | $73,719 | $325,700 | Compare |
| McAllen | 143,789 | $60,165 | $173,800 | Compare |
| Waco | 141,925 | $51,468 | $199,600 | Compare |
| Midland | 133,998 | $91,169 | $298,600 | Compare |
| Carrollton | 132,741 | $99,115 | $353,600 | Compare |
| Lewisville | 128,313 | $85,002 | $350,200 | Compare |
| Abilene | 127,130 | $62,720 | $178,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Texas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Killeen With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Killeen
What is the population of Killeen, TX?
The population of Killeen, TX is 156,144 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Texas.
What is the median household income in Killeen?
The median household income in Killeen, TX is $58,339 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Killeen?
The median home value in Killeen, TX is $196,000, which is 20% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Killeen?
The median monthly rent in Killeen, TX is $1,147, which is 1% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Killeen?
The unemployment rate in Killeen, TX is 10.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Killeen, TX a good place to live?
Killeen offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 156,144 and a median age of 30, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Killeen, TX?
22.0% of residents in Killeen aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Killeen?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Killeen, TX: median home value is $196,000 (20% below national), median rent is $1,147/month, and median household income is $58,339. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Killeen?
The poverty rate in Killeen, TX is 17.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Killeen, TX?
Killeen's population is 14.2% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 8.9% Black or African American, 4.1% Asian, and 34.7% two or more races. 9.3% of residents are foreign-born.