7 Reasons to Love Living in Salado

Discover the top 7 reasons why Salado is the perfect place to call home! From its welcoming community to its diverse range of activities, there's something for everyone. Join us as we explore the unique features of Salado that make this town such an appealing place to settle down.

The Village of Salado offers a little something for everyone, thanks to its long history, cultural attractions, and prime location. Despite its size, Salado is a lively community that caters to young professionals, retirees, and families alike. Below are our top 7 reasons to become a Salado resident.

1. Small-Town, Big Heart

Despite its modest population of just over 2,399 residents as of 2023, Salado's small-town charisma is incomparable. 

Its downtown area is packed with unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries that make it a hub of activity. The warm and friendly residents embody the true essence of community spirit, always offering a kind hello and steadfast support for local small businesses. Salado's strong sense of togetherness makes it an easy place to call home.

2. Great Location and Easy Commutes

Salado's position in Bell County is perfect for those seeking a balance between city life and small-town living. With Austin and Waco nearby, as well as neighboring communities like Temple and Belton, residents have access to plenty of urban amenities while still enjoying the tranquility of small-town life.  And for the military community, commuting from Salado to Fort Cavazos is a quick highway trip that takes less than 30 minutes.

This accessibility also opens up a wealth of employment opportunities, affordable housing options, and easy trips into the city.  Salado truly offers the best of both worlds for those seeking an escape from the city crowds without being isolated.

3. Golf Cart Community

Salado may be small, but it carries a large reputation for being a golf cart community. Take a stroll down Main Street and you will see at least 5-10 carts at any given time! Residents enjoying utilizing their golf carts for transportation around town, so you will find them parked outside local stores and restaurants throughout the area. Golf carts must follow regulations set by the state, and drivers must be at least 16 years of age with a valid drivers license. Golf cart communities are highly sought after, and this feature continues to be a reason why many Texans are moving to the Village of Salado. 

4. Exceptional Schools

Salado takes pride in its exceptional public school system, which offers rigorous academic programs and a student-centered approach to learning. The Salado Independent School District serves students from kindergarten to 12th grade and includes a mix of public district schools and private schools, so learners of all ages receive a comprehensive education.

Although Salado College closed its doors in 1885, the town's strategic location near esteemed colleges like the University of Mary Hardin Baylor and Temple College offers students a convenient commute to pursue their academic goals.

5. Outdoor Activities

Salado boasts some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in Central Texas. The town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, thanks to its abundance of nature parks and trails.

Hikers and campers find themselves drawn to the nearby Chalk Ridge Falls and Stillhouse Hollow Lake.  While Lake Belton  offers endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. Art enthusiasts won't want to miss the Salado Sculpture Garden, where they can admire the impressive works of local Texas artists amidst the area's natural beauty. 

Explore this 2.5-mile out-and-back trail at Chalk Ridge Falls, generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 51 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and running. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.

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6. Artistic Community

Salado boasts a vibrant and flourishing art scene that showcases the exceptional talent of local artists. Visitors can indulge in a diverse mix of galleries, art studios, theaters, and music venues that offer an experience like no other. With events like the Wildflower Arts & Crafts Festival, Texas Wine and Rogue Art Fest, the annual Sirena Creekside Carnaval, and the Christmas Stroll, visitors can revel in a vibrant, colorful experience with music, culinary delights, and more.

Salado's art scene is not just about entertainment either; it offers a rich education for those eager to hone their artistic skills. The town's galleries, studios, and theaters offer expert-led classes in painting, pottery, glassblowing, acting, and music, transforming Salado's creative landscape and drawing a diverse community of artists and enthusiasts.

7. A Treasure Trove of History

From its founding in the mid-1800s to its status as a popular stagecoach stop and tourist destination in the late 19th century. Today, visitors can explore the town's historic buildings and landmarks, including the Salado Museum and the Stagecoach Inn, to gain a deeper appreciation for the area's rich cultural heritage.

The Stagecoach Restaurant is a longstanding traveler’s pit-stop and local watering hole, serving Salado locals and passerby since 1861. It now offers guests breakfast, lunch, and dinner fare from a contemporary menu where Old Texas meets modern techniques and dishes.

Salado College Park is the location of the ruins and grounds of Salado College.  Plaques throughout the park tell the story of the College built here in 1859 by visionaries who established a facility for students from elementary grades through two years of college based on the then unheard of belief that both men and women deserve equal access to higher education in a nondenominational setting.

So, Would I Love Living in Salado?

YES - Salado is a wonderful place to call home. Its friendly atmosphere, eclectic art culture, and emphasis on community well-being make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to settle down. Additionally, the city's growing population and increasing number of businesses provide ample opportunities for growth and development.

Although we've covered 7 reasons why we love Salado, it's up to you to decide if this beautiful town is the right fit for you. As a New Home Builder in Salado, we take part in the warm welcome and support that this community offers, and would love to welcome you too.