10 Reasons to Move to Belton, Texas

Thinking about moving to Belton, Texas? Of course, you are! New residents are attracted to the area’s school districts, outdoor activities, location, and much, much more.

Here are ten reasons to consider relocating to Belton this year:

1. Location, Location, Location!

As an integral part of the Killeen-Temple-Fort Cavazos metropolitan area, Belton is directly located between Waco and Austin, and is next door to Temple, Texas. This centralized location allows you to reach many different destinations in under an hour! It is the perfect starting point for a day trip.

Living in Belton grants you quick access to I-35, leaving the road of travel opportunities wide open. The distance from Austin to Belton is right at 60 miles. Whether for fun or work, you can be in Austin in an hour or less! 

2. Comfortable Population

Belton offers small-town charm without sacrificing the conveniences of living in the city — which is why more and more people are flocking to this beautiful place.

Belton, Texas is home to a population of less than 25,000 residents according to 2023 United States Census estimates. Less traffic & crowds paired with great local restaurants & activities and quick access to larger cities is a large reason why residents choose Belton to call home. 

3. Job Opportunities Galore

With an unemployment rate lower than the national average and an increase in recent job growth, more and more people are considering new home communities in Belton as an alternative to living in Austin, according to data from the U.S. Department of Labor's Non-Seasonally Adjusted Unemployment Rate.

4. Top Ranking Schools 

Because school district boundaries were set decades ago to include unincorporated parts of the county, Belton Independent School District serves students in Belton, Morgan's Point Resort, and parts of Temple.

Due to the combined growth of these towns, Belton is building brand new schools and utilizing new technology to better accommodate the student population. Administrators and educators are focused on providing the best education for every student, making it one of the most sought-after districts in the area.

5. Higher Education Close to Home

Belton, Texas also houses a higher education institution: University of Mary Hardin-Baylor! This college hosts a smaller population of students (less than 4,000 as of 2023). With traditional values and an excellent football program, this university attracts many young adults from around the state. There are also  2 nearby colleges not far from Belton: Texas A&M University-Central Texas in Killeen & Temple College in Temple, Texas.

6. Outdoor Living

Numerous parks, trails, and water sources offer residents the opportunity to get out and enjoy the beautiful views and fresh air. Some of the best trails in Belton include Chalk Ridge Falls Park Trail (includes a great water feature), Armadillo, Tennessee Valley South River Loop, and more. Nolan Creek also runs thru Belton and even around the downtown area, where residents are often found cooling off in the shallow waters.

7. Belton Lake

Who doesn’t love a beautiful body of water? Belton Lake is a huge attraction and offers water activities like fishing, boating, waterskiing, tubing, jet skiing, and more! There are several lakeside parks to enjoy during the day - some even offer playgrounds, picnic tables, and restrooms. Check out Westcliff Park and Temple Lake Park to see what suits your family best! You can also catch a great seafood meal right on Belton Lake at Dead Fish Grill. 

8. Local Dining Galore

Ranked in the Top 25 of Texas' Best BBQ, Schoepf's BBQ is a must-try. You can also find local flavors at the Gin at Nolan Creek,  Miller's Smokehouse,  Arusha's Coffee Co,  Nolan Creek Brewery, Pizza Pieros, Katy Deli, Early Light Creperie, and more. Some locations also offer weekly activities such as trivia night, comedy shows, musical bingo, or themed parties. Check out their social media pages to stay up to date with their current events.

9. Downtown Belton

There are so many fun things to do in Belton — and downtown is the center of many activities. There you'll find all kinds of local treasures! Many local stores feature artisan made goods, such as candles or home decor. You will also find women's clothing boutiques, antique stores, bookstores, event spaces, and many great locally-owned restaurants. A notable mention is the Beltonian Theatre which has been showing movies for Belton since 1922! Check out their $1 movie series, kids shows, and fun classic showings throughout the year. During the warmer months, there is also an outdoor artisan market called Belton Market Days. This event is held on one Saturday each month. Downtown also hosts many city events, such as holiday parades, Oktoberfest, food festivals, and more.

10. The Cadence Bank Center

Belton is home to the Cadence Bank Center, a popular venue for concerts, conventions, sporting events, and local charitable event. Many popular activities are held here, such as the Bell County Comic Con, the Rodeo, State Fair, Home & Garden shows, large music concerts, and more! The Center also features the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame. The Cadence Bank Center is a huge source of activity for the county and for the city of Belton, and it's nice that residents only have a short 5 minute commute to enjoy these activities!