Temple, Belton, & Central Texas Neighborhood Guide

Belton ISD remains one of the most significant value drivers in Bell County. Properties within its boundaries often command a price premium compared to neighboring districts due to consistent academic performance. The district's geography is varied — from the rocky bluffs of Lake Belton to the urban-suburban transition zones of West Temple.

Three Creeks

• Price Range - $270,000 – $480,000
• School District - Belton ISD (Chisholm Trail Elementary, Belton Middle, Belton High)
• Construction Era - New Construction (2018 – Present)
• Lot Sizes - 0.15 – 0.25 acres; select phases up to 0.85 acres
• HOA - Yes — managed community with amenities

The Vibe: A "Dark Sky" master-planned community between the Lampasas River and Stillhouse Hollow Lake. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts with 5+ miles of trails, private river access, a pavilion, sand volleyball courts, and fire pits. No street lights means you can actually see the stars. A nature lover's paradise with multiple builders offering everything from starter homes to executive builds.

Builders: Omega Builders, D.R. Horton (Colt Creek section with smart-home integration), Carothers Executive Homes, Stylecraft.

Best For: Families prioritizing outdoor lifestyle, military and healthcare commuters, buyers who want new construction with community amenities.

Watch Out For: HOA rules vary by section. Some phases have smaller lots. Confirm flood zone status near waterways.

Carriage House Trails

• Price Range $280,000 – $360,000
• School District - Belton ISD
• Construction Era - Established (2012 – 2018)
• Lot Sizes 0.16 – 0.20 acres (approx. 7,200 – 8,600 sq. ft.)
• HOA-Yes — $32–$38/month

The Vibe: The standard for executive established living in West Temple. Built primarily by Carothers Executive Homes, this neighborhood features 4-side masonry, mature landscaping, and traditional architecture that emphasizes permanence. Quiet streets, aesthetic consistency, and a direct link between Temple's healthcare corridor and Belton schools.

Best For: Second-time buyers, established families, healthcare professionals wanting move-in ready homes without the premium of new construction.

Watch Out For: Limited inventory — homes sell quickly when they hit the market.

River Place Addition

• Price Range - $300,000 – $450,000
• School District - Belton ISD (Sparta Elementary, Belton Middle, Belton High)
• Construction Era - Established (1978 – 1983)
• Lot Sizes - 0.30 – 0.50+ acres; select lots over 1 acre 
• HOA - No — rare for an upscale area

The Vibe: One of Belton's most storied residential areas. Custom homes on expansive wooded lots directly across from Belton High School. Architecture features contemporary modern or traditional masonry with massive outdoor living spaces. The lack of HOA allows for substantial property modifications — workshops, pools, whatever you want.

Best For: Privacy seekers, buyers wanting character homes with land, families with high schoolers, "fixer-upper" luxury buyers looking for value-add potential.

Watch Out For: Many homes use septic systems rather than city sewer. Older homes may need foundation or roof updates. This is a "bring your vision" neighborhood.

Lake Pointe

• Price Range - $320,000 – $600,000+
• School District - Belton ISD (Lake Belton Middle School zone)
• Construction Era - Established (2010 – 2015)
• Lot Sizes - 0.18 – 0.50 acres
• HOA - Yes — approximately $30/month

The Vibe: Premier destination for Lake Belton proximity and the Highway 317 recreational corridor. Modern single-family homes with Texas Hill Country aesthetics — limestone exteriors, large covered patios, 3-car garage options. Zoned for Lake Belton Middle School, frequently cited as one of the top campuses in the region.

Best For: Move-up families, lake recreation enthusiasts, buyers wanting established luxury without custom-build complexity.

Watch Out For: Higher price point reflects lake proximity premium. Inventory can be tight.

The Groves at Lakewood Ranch

• Price Range$370,000 – $500,000+
• School District - Belton ISD (Lakewood Elementary)
• Construction Era - New Construction (2024 – 2026)
• Lot Sizes 0.18 – 0.25 acres
• HOA - Yes — community pool and playground

The Vibe: The upscale evolution of West Temple. Walkable to Lakewood Elementary and close to retail and healthcare hubs. New construction with sophisticated interiors — open-concept designs, gourmet kitchens with oversized islands, expansive primary suites. Fully sodded yards, sprinkler systems, and 6-foot privacy fences included.

Builders: Omega Builders, Kiella Homebuilders.

Best For: Luxury-seeking families, medical professionals, buyers who want new construction with high-end finishes and community amenities.

Watch Out For: Premium pricing for the area. HOA governance is comprehensive.

Hidden Trails (Affordable/First-Time Buyer)

• Price Range - $220,000 – $250,000
• School District - Belton ISD
• Construction Era - New Construction (2025 – 2026)
• Lot Sizes - Standard suburban
• HOA - Yes

The Vibe: A rare opportunity for new construction at a price point competitive with older resale stock. Open-concept layouts with modern energy efficiency. The entry point into Belton ISD for buyers on a budget.

Best For: First-time buyers wanting new construction, investors seeking Belton ISD rental properties, buyers priced out of other Belton neighborhoods.

Watch Out For: Smaller lots and floor plans. Limited customization options.

The Enclave at Lake Belton (Luxury $400k+)

• Price Range - $800,000 – $1,500,000+
• School District - Belton ISD
• Construction Era - Custom builds (2020s)
• Lot Sizes -  1.0 – 4.0+ acres
• HOA - Yes — gated community

The Vibe: The pinnacle of lakeside living in Bell County. Gated community with private hiking trails, lake views, and custom energy-efficient ICF construction. This is where executives, physicians, and high-net-worth families buy when they want privacy, space, and no compromises.

Best For: Executives, high-net-worth families, retirees seeking luxury lake lifestyle.

Watch Out For: Custom builds mean longer timelines. Premium pricing reflects exclusivity.

Temple ISD Neighborhoods

Temple serves as the regional hub for medical services and logistics. The residential environment is characterized by proximity to the Baylor Scott & White medical district and a mix of established neighborhoods with character and newer developments along the southern corridor.

Canyon Creek & Canyon Ridge

• Price Range - $180,000 – $350,000
• School District - Temple ISD (Bonham Middle School zone)
• Construction Era - Established (1970s – 1980s)
• Lot Sizes - Standard suburban with mature trees
• HOA - Varies by section

The Vibe: Core Temple neighborhoods offering stability, mature trees, and proximity to the city's main commercial corridor. Traditional suburban features — privacy fencing, rear-facing garages on select lots — without the high prices of newer developments. These are the neighborhoods where longtime Temple residents raised their families.

Best For: First-time buyers seeking value, value-add investors, young families who prioritize affordability over new construction.

Watch Out For: Older homes may need updates. Temple ISD rated lower than Belton ISD. Drive neighborhoods to assess specific streets.

Windham Hill

• Price Range - $270,000 – $380,000
• School District - Temple ISD
• Construction Era - Established (2010s)
• Lot Sizes - 0.15 – 0.25 acres
• HOA - Yes — $300/year; community pool

The Vibe: A modern suburban anchor in South Temple with an established neighborhood feel. Community pool, established landscaping, and HOA management focused on capital improvements and neighborhood cohesion. A stable choice for long-term residents who want amenities without new-construction pricing.

Best For: Move-up families, buyers wanting community amenities, those seeking established but relatively recent construction.

Watch Out For: Temple ISD schools. HOA fees fund community improvements.

South Pointe

• Price Range - $230,000 – $325,000
• School District - Temple ISD
• Construction Era - New Construction (2024 – 2026)
• Lot Sizes - 0.14 – 0.20 acres
• HOA - Standard

The Vibe: The latest in high-efficiency new construction for South Temple. Developed by Stylecraft with 9 buildable floor plans ranging from 1,262 to 2,588 sq. ft. — one of the most flexible developments for varying household budgets. Modern energy efficiency standards throughout.

Best For: First-time buyers wanting new construction, investors seeking newer rental stock, buyers who want flexibility in floor plan selection.

Watch Out For: Temple ISD schools. Smaller lots typical of new construction.

Deerfield Estates / The Creeks at Deerfield (Luxury)

• Price Range - $450,000 – $800,000+
• School District - Temple ISD
• Construction Era - Established (Late 2000s – 2019)
• Lot Sizes - 0.25 – 0.70 acres; select custom lots
• HOA - Yes — gated section available (Gates are almost never closed lol)

The Vibe: Established luxury in South Temple. Rolling hills, mature oak canopies, and substantial privacy. The gated "Creeks at Deerfield" section offers controlled access and strict masonry requirements. Homes range from 3,000 to 3,800+ sq. ft. with custom finishes rarely found in modern track-built neighborhoods. Unique character with mature trees throughout.

Best For: Mature families, luxury seekers prioritizing privacy, buyers who want established luxury over new construction.

Watch Out For: Temple ISD schools (though many residents cite the neighborhood quality as the priority). Premium pricing for the area.

Legacy Ranch (Luxury)

• Price Range - $440,000 – $650,000+
• School District - Belton ISD (Southwest Elementary, Belton Middle, Belton High)
• Construction Era - New and Custom Construction (2024 – Present)
• Lot Sizes - 0.25 – 0.35 acres
• HOA - Yes — comprehensive governance

The Vibe: South Temple's first and only master-planned luxury community. A prestigious 140-lot development built exclusively by Arnold Design + Build. Specifically positioned for physicians and healthcare executives with floor plans like the "Trigger" and "Mustang" emphasizing modern luxury. Advanced drainage systems and architectural controls ensure long-term value.

Best For: Medical professionals, luxury buyers wanting new construction, move-up families seeking Belton ISD in a Temple location.

Watch Out For: Premium pricing. Limited builder selection (Arnold Design + Build exclusively).

Bella Terra 

• Price Range - $325,000 – $600,000
•  School District - Belton ISD
• Construction Era - New and Recent Construction
• Lot Sizes - Suburban
• HOA - Yes

The Vibe: The upscale growth frontier of West Temple. Modern architecture, contemporary finishes, open-concept designs, and a quiet residential atmosphere near parks. Brand-new builds for luxury buyers who want the latest without the custom-build process.

Best For: Luxury buyers seeking new construction in a quiet area, families wanting modern finishes with Belton ISD schools.

Watch Out For: Newer development means less mature landscaping.

Preserve at Lions Park (Affordable/First-Time Buyer)

• Price Range - $185,000 – $205,000
• School District - Temple ISD
• Construction Era - New Construction (2025 – 2026)
• Lot Sizes - Compact (1,189 – 1,535 sq. ft. homes)
• HOA - Yes

The Vibe: The most accessible new construction price point in Temple. Built by Lennar with efficient floor plans designed for first-time buyers or downsizers. Modern energy efficiency at an unprecedented price point for the area.

Best For: First-time buyers on a strict budget, downsizers, investors seeking new-construction rental stock at entry-level pricing.

Watch Out For: Smaller floor plans. Temple ISD schools. High-density development.

Academy ISD Neighborhoods

Academy ISD offers a "small-town" academic environment with Temple's municipal services — a unique combination that creates value for buyers who want both.

Hartrick Ranch

• Price Range - $250,000 – $380,000
• School District - Academy ISD
• Construction Era - New Construction (2024 – 2026)
• Lot Sizes - 0.15 – 0.22 acres
• HOA - Yes — Hartrick Ranch HOA

The Vibe: A critical neighborhood for buyers who want a Temple address with Academy ISD schools. Countryside atmosphere with proximity to the Leon River and VA Hospital. Less than 10 minutes from Baylor Scott & White main campus. Multiple builders (Omega, Stylecraft, Kiella) with higher efficiency ratings standardized throughout.

Best For: Move-up families seeking Academy ISD, healthcare commuters, buyers who want new construction with small-town schools.

Watch Out For: Academy ISD is smaller with fewer extracurricular options than larger districts. Growing area means ongoing construction.

Killeen ISD Neighborhoods

Killeen's housing market is defined by its relationship with Fort Cavazos. The high concentration of military personnel ensures constant housing demand, creating a robust rental market and stable environment for real estate investment.

Yowell Ranch

• Price Range - $250,000 – $330,000
• School District - Killeen ISD
• Construction Era - Recent Construction
• Lot Sizes - Standard suburban
• HOA - Yes — community pool, trails, basketball courts

The Vibe: One of the primary engines of Killeen's suburban development. Modern homes highly competitive for military families utilizing VA loans. Community amenities include pool, trails, and basketball courts. Proximity to Killeen Mall and retail corridor.

Best For: Military families, VA loan buyers, investors targeting military tenant pools.

Watch Out For: Killeen ISD rated lower than Belton ISD. Military tenant turnover can be frequent with PCS moves.

Union Grove

• Price Range - $275,000 – $350,000
• School District - Killeen ISD
• Construction Era - New Construction
• Lot Sizes - Standard suburban
• HOA - Yes

The Vibe: Newer housing stock attracting buyers seeking proximity to the Harker Heights retail core and school campuses. High military demand keeps values stable. A step up from entry-level Killeen neighborhoods.

Best For: Military families wanting newer homes, buyers seeking proximity to Harker Heights amenities while staying in Killeen pricing.

Watch Out For: Killeen ISD schools. Competition from military buyers can be strong.

Bella Charca (Luxury)

• Price Range - $450,000 – $1,000,000+
• School District - Killeen ISD
• Construction Era - Custom builds
• Lot Sizes - Large — varies by lot
• HOA - Yes — gated, controlled access

The Vibe: The premier luxury destination in greater Killeen. Gated community with custom-built estates, manicured common areas, large lots, and distinct architecture. Where high-ranking military officials, physicians, and executives buy when they want to stay in the Killeen area but want top-tier living.

Best For: High-ranking military officials, physicians, executive-level buyers seeking luxury in Killeen.

Watch Out For: Killeen ISD schools. Premium pricing for the area.

The Rose Neighborhood (Affordable/First-Time Buyer)

• Price Range - $140,000 – $185,000
• School District - Killeen ISD
• Construction Era - Established (1970s – 1980s)
• Lot Sizes - Standard
• HOA - Varies

The Vibe: The most accessible path to single-family homeownership in Killeen. Established neighborhoods with solid rental demand from the military population. Strong cash flow potential for investors.

Best For: First-time buyers on a budget, investors seeking cash flow, house hackers.

Watch Out For: Older housing stock may need updates. Research specific streets carefully. Killeen ISD schools.

Harker Heights Neighborhoods

Harker Heights is the "suburban haven" of the region — quieter and more manicured than Killeen's urban core. A primary choice for military families who want to stay close to Fort Cavazos while enjoying a traditional suburban lifestyle.

Skipcha Mountain

• Price Range - $280,000 – $380,000
• School District - Killeen ISD
• Construction Era - Early 2000s
• Lot Sizes - Standard suburban
• HOA - Yes

The Vibe: Family-centric layout with elementary and middle schools within walking distance for many residents. The neighborhood anchor for Harker Heights families. Established but well-maintained.

Best For: Families with school-age children, military commuters, buyers wanting established suburban living.

Watch Out For: Killeen ISD schools. Older construction than some newer Harker Heights options.

White Rock Estates

• Price Range - $310,000 – $420,000
• School District - Killeen ISD
• Construction Era - 2010s – Present
• Lot Sizes - Standard suburban
• HOA - Yes

The Vibe: Significant appreciation due to newer housing stock and proximity to Market Heights shopping center — the city's primary retail and entertainment hub. A move-up destination for families already in the area.

Best For: Move-up families, retirees wanting newer homes, buyers seeking proximity to retail and dining.

Watch Out For: Killeen ISD schools. Higher pricing reflects newer construction and location premium.

The Ridge / Scenic View Lots (Luxury)

• Price Range - $600,000 – $1,600,000
• School District - Killeen ISD
• Construction Era - Custom builds
• Lot Sizes - Large — up to 7+ acres
• HOA - Varies

The Vibe: Luxury in Harker Heights means elevation. Homes along the ridgelines offer panoramic views of Stillhouse Hollow Lake and rolling Texas Hill Country. Custom stone and stucco facades, large lots, and space for horses or hobby farming.

Best For: High-end buyers, horse lovers, hobby farmers, anyone wanting views and acreage.

Watch Out For: Killeen ISD schools. Remote from retail — you're paying for privacy and views.

Central Heights (Affordable/First-Time Buyer)

• Price Range - $150,000 – $225,000
• School District - Killeen ISD
• Construction Era - Established
• Lot Sizes - Standard
• HOA - Varies

The Vibe: Older residential pockets near the city center offering affordability with mature neighborhood character. Proximity to Carl Levin Park (playgrounds, community pool, walking trails) adds family appeal without premium pricing.

Best For: Young military families, first-time buyers, commuters seeking low property taxes and affordable entry.

Watch Out For: Older housing stock. Killeen ISD schools. Research specific streets.

Salado ISD Neighborhoods

Salado has transformed from a sleepy historical village into a major residential hub for commuters working in Temple-Belton or the north Austin tech corridor. Salado ISD is a primary draw with high-performance academics in a community with a defined sense of place.

Flint Ridge

• Price Range - $310,000 – $640,000
• School District - Salado ISD
• Construction Era - New Construction
• Lot Sizes - 0.25 – 1.0 acres
• HOA - Yes

The Vibe: The most accessible entry point into Salado ISD. Brand-new construction by Lennar and Flintrock Builders starting in the low $300,000s. "Classic Collection" homes with 3-car garage options cater to regional demand for extra vehicle storage. The gateway to Salado for buyers who can't reach the $500k+ threshold.

Best For: Entry-level Salado buyers, families prioritizing Salado ISD, buyers wanting new construction with land.

Watch Out For: Still a significant price jump from Temple/Belton options. Longer commute to everything.

Amity Estates

• Price Range - $465,000 – $685,000
• School District - Salado ISD
• Construction Era - Established and Recent
• Lot Sizes - 0.5 – 1.5 acres
• HOA - Yes

The Vibe: The sweet spot for Salado living — more land than Flint Ridge, more accessible than Hidden Springs. Traditional homes on half-acre to 1.5-acre lots with the space and privacy that's becoming rare in the I-35 corridor.

Best For: Move-up families, traditional buyers wanting acreage, those seeking Salado lifestyle without ultra-luxury pricing.

Watch Out For: Higher price point than Temple/Belton. Limited inventory.

Hidden Springs (Luxury)

• Price Range - $625,000 – $1,100,000
• School District - Salado ISD
• Construction Era - Custom and Recent
• Lot Sizes - 2 – 5+ acres
• HOA - Yes

The Vibe: Executive luxury with privacy. Multi-acre lots, custom builds, and the seclusion that high-net-worth buyers seek. This is where you buy when you want Salado schools, serious land, and no neighbors looking into your backyard.

Best For: Executive luxury buyers, privacy seekers, families wanting estate-style living with top-rated schools.

Watch Out For: Premium pricing. Custom builds mean longer timelines. Very limited inventory.

The Sanctuary

• Price Range - $520,000 – $650,000+
• School District - Salado ISD
• Construction Era - New Construction (2025 – 2026)
• Lot Sizes - Varies
• HOA - Yes

The Vibe: High-end master-planned expansion of Salado with modern architectural controls. Located near Mill Creek Golf Club and Salado's historic creek-side core. Upscale design for buyers who want new construction luxury without the custom-build process.

Best For: Austin commuters, retirees, luxury-seeking families wanting turnkey new construction in Salado.

Watch Out For: Premium pricing. New development means less established landscaping.

Quick Reference: Which Neighborhood Is Right for You?

If you prioritize schools:

Salado ISD (top rated) → Belton ISD → Academy ISD → Killeen ISD / Temple ISD

If you prioritize affordability:

The Rose (Killeen) → Preserve at Lions Park (Temple) → Central Heights (Harker Heights) → Hidden Trails (Belton)

If you work at Baylor Scott & White:

Canyon Creek (5 min) → Carriage House Trails (8 min) → Three Creeks (10 min) → Hartrick Ranch (10 min)

If you're stationed at Fort Cavazos:

Yowell Ranch (10 min) → Harker Heights neighborhoods (12 min) → Killeen neighborhoods (10 min)

If you want lake lifestyle:

The Enclave at Lake Belton → Lake Pointe → Morgan's Point → Three Creeks (river access)

If you're investing for cash flow:

The Rose (Killeen) → Canyon Creek/Canyon Ridge (Temple) → Central Heights (Harker Heights)

If you want luxury:

Hidden Springs (Salado) → The Enclave at Lake Belton → Legacy Ranch (Temple) → Deerfield Estates

If you want new construction under $300k:

Hidden Trails (Belton ISD) → South Pointe (Temple) → Preserve at Lions Park (Temple)

Ready to Explore?

Use our Neighborhood Comparison Tool to compare areas side-by-side by school district, price, and commute time.

Or schedule a free consultation and I'll give you personalized recommendations based on your priorities — whether that's schools, commute, investment potential, or lifestyle.

Data compiled February 2026 from MLS, public records, and builder information. Prices and availability change frequently — contact me for current market conditions.