Killeen, Bell County, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
158,159
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,977/yr
4.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
65,793
-0.0% year-over-year change

Killeen population

How many people live in Killeen

Killeen is home to 158,159 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Killeen locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
158,159
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
77,921
Female
50.7%
80,238
Value Percent YoY change
Male 77,921 49.3% 0.1%
Female 80,238 50.7% 2.4%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Killeen is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.9% are children under 15, then 15.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32.6% of the population, while another 18.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 8.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
30.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.9%
15 to 24
15.4%
25 to 44
32.6%
45 to 64
18.6%
Over 65
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 39,449 24.9% 0.9%
15 to 24 24,338 15.4% 2.2%
25 to 44 51,553 32.6% 1.5%
45 to 64 29,504 18.6% -1.5%
Over 65 13,315 8.4% 6.7%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Killeen, 82.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 31.9% of locals are Caucasian, 38% are African American and 4% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.7% are Pacific Islanders, while 8.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13.7%
Non-citizens
4.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 130,139 82.3% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 21,605 13.7% 1.3%
Non-citizens 6,415 4.1% 8.8%
Racial breakdown
White
31.9%
Black or African American
38%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.7%
Two or more races
16.7%
Other
8.1%
Value Percent
White 50,478 31.9%
Black or African American 60,094 38%
American Indian and Alaska Native 916 0.6%
Asian 6,410 4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,091 0.7%
Two or more races 26,411 16.7%
Other 12,759 8.1%

Households in Killeen

A peek inside Killeen households

Killeen has 59,769 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.8% are families, while the remaining 34.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
59,769
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
20,412
Family households
39,357
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 20,412 34.2% -2.4%
Family households 39,357 65.8% 1.1%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Killeen

The housing landscape of Killeen

Killeen's housing consists of 65,793 units, with 61.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 3.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
65,793
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 40,272 61.2%
1 unit, attached 2,597 4%
2 units 4,218 6.4%
3 or 4 units 6,222 9.5%
5 to 9 units 2,546 3.9%
10 to 19 units 4,116 6.3%
20 to 49 units 1,613 2.4%
50 or more units 1,543 2.4%
Mobile home 2,435 3.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 231 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
1,678
59.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Killeen

In Killeen, the median construction year is 1996. About 0.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 19.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 324 0.5% -18.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 715 1.1% 11.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,198 3.3% 2.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,826 7.3% 1.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,096 12.3% -2.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,185 15.5% -6.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,208 17% -0.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 14,001 21.3% -4.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 12,562 19.1% 7.4%
Built in 2020 or later 1,678 2.6% 59.5%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Killeen occupancy rates

Out of the 59,769 occupied housing units in Killeen, 49.4% are owner-occupied, while 50.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
59,769
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
30,211
Owner occupied
29,558
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 30,211 50.6% -1.7%
Owner occupied 29,558 49.4% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
9.2%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Killeen housing costs

Housing costs in Killeen come to a median of $1,235 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,208.

Median housing costs per month
$1,235/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Killeen
$1,208/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Killeen

Killeen education at a glance

About 36.6% of the population in Killeen went to high school, while 31.2% pursued college studies. Another 10.1% earned an associate degree and 14.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,016 2.7% 12.0%
High school diploma 40,927 36.6% 3.2%
College diploma 34,844 31.2% -0.8%
Associate degree 11,323 10.1% -2.2%
Bachelor's degree 15,993 14.3% -0.2%
Graduate degree 5,693 5.1% 3.3%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Killeen

How much people earn in Killeen

The average annual household income in Killeen was $75,539 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,977, reflecting a +4.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Killeen
$75,539/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Killeen
$60,977/year
4.5% year-over-year change

Killeen income by age

In Killeen, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,225. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,252 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,078, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,012 in earnings. Overall, 82.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,078 -1.3%
25 - 44 $61,225 4.6%
45 - 64 $70,252 0.6%
Over 65 $53,012 12.1%
Above poverty level
127,484
Below poverty level
26,947
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 127,484 82.6% 0.8%
Below poverty level 26,947 17.4% 3.2%

Average renter income in Killeen

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Killeen, their median household income was $44,432 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$44,432
Rent-to-income ratio
32.6%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Killeen

Workforce and job types in Killeen

The job market in Killeen is powered by 61,393 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.2% run their own businesses, 66.3% are employed by private companies, and 22.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
61,393
1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
45,001
Blue collar
16,392
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 45,001 73.3% -1.2%
Blue collar 16,392 26.7% 11.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.2%
Private companies
66.3%
Governmental workers
22.2%
Not for profit companies
4.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,418 7.2% 7.5%
Private companies 40,686 66.3% 2.9%
Governmental workers 13,656 22.2% -3.3%
Not for profit companies 2,633 4.3% 3.0%
Unemployment rate
9.7%
-7.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Killeen stands at 9.7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Killeen

How people get around in Killeen

In Killeen, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
4.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 63,476 89.4% 1.2%
Taxicab 253 0.4% 197.7%
Bus or trolleybus 243 0.3% -25.9%
Motorcycle 20 0% -74.7%
Bicycle 16 0% 0.0%
Walk 805 1.1% -15.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Killeen by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
76541 19,011 8,376 $37,349 $56,611
76542 53,892 19,712 $74,055 $88,740
76543 34,457 13,666 $48,564 $67,679
76549 56,038 19,837 $70,871 $78,790

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FAQs about Killeen demographics 

What is the total population of Killeen?

Killeen has a total population of 158,159 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Killeen?

The gender ratio in Killeen is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (77,921 residents)
  • 50.7% females (80,238 residents)

What is the median age in Killeen?

The median age in Killeen is 30.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Killeen?

The age distribution in Killeen is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.9% (39,449 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.4% (24,338 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 32.6% (51,553 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.6% (29,504 residents)
  • Over 65: 8.4% (13,315 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Killeen?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Killeen is as follows:
  • White: 31.9% (50,478 residents)
  • Black or African American: 38% (60,094 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (916 residents)
  • Asian: 4% (6,410 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.7% (1,091 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.7% (26,411 residents)
  • Other: 8.1% (12,759 residents)

What percentage of the population in Killeen are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.3% of the population in Killeen.

How many housing units are there in Killeen?

There are 65,793 housing units in Killeen, reflecting a -0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Killeen and what is the average household size?

Killeen has a total of 59,769 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Killeen?

Killeen has a median household income of $60,977, representing a +4.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Killeen?

The employment rate is 90.3% in Killeen, with a workforce of 61,393 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.3% (45,001 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.7% (16,392 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.2% (4,418 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.3% (40,686 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.2% (13,656 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.3% (2,633 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025