Living in Temple, TX: The Ultimate Relocation Guide (2026 Edition)

Welcome to Central Texas! If you are reading this, you are likely considering a move to the Temple or Belton area. You aren't alone—Bell County is one of the fastest-growing regions in Texas because it offers the perfect balance: the amenities of a city with the community feel of a small town.

Whether you are a first-time home buyer looking for an affordable starter home or a relocation buyer moving from Austin, California, or New York, this guide will help you navigate neighborhoods, schools, and the buying process.

• The Big Pro (Cost of Living): Your money goes much further here. You can still find new construction homes under $300k, something that is nearly impossible in Austin or Georgetown.

• The Medical Hub: Living near Baylor Scott & White is a huge draw. It brings stable jobs and world-class healthcare right to your backyard.

• Location Convenience: You are centrally located on I-35. It is an easy hour drive south to Austin or 30 minutes north to Waco, giving you access to big-city amenities without the big-city price tag.

• The Reality Check (Cons): We are honest about the downsides—construction on I-35 is constant, property taxes in Texas are higher than the national average (though no state income tax helps!), and the pace of life is definitely slower than the big metros.

Most of our clients move here for three reasons: Affordability, Location, and Lifestyle.

• Cost of Living: Compared to Austin (just 45 minutes south), home prices in Temple and Belton are significantly more affordable. You can often get a brand-new construction home here for the price of a condo in Austin.

• The "I-35 Corridor": We are perfectly positioned. You are 45 minutes from Austin, 35 minutes from Waco, and 2.5 hours from Dallas/Fort Worth.

• Medical & Military Hub: With Baylor Scott & White Medical Center (one of the largest in the state) and proximity to Fort Cavazos, our economy is stable and diverse.

Where Should You Live? Breaking Down the Areas

Finding the right spot depends on your lifestyle. Here is the "Local's Perspective" on the main areas:

1. West Temple (Zip: 76502)

• The Vibe: Newer, polished, and growing fast. This is where you see the most new construction developments.

• Best For: Families wanting modern homes, community pools, and easy access to the Belton ISD schools that serve this area.

• Key Feature: The intersection of W Adams Ave and H.K. Dodgen Loop is booming with new restaurants and retail.

2. Belton (Zip: 76513)

• The Vibe: "Small Town Texas" feel with rolling hills. Belton feels a bit more established and historic, especially near the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor.

• Best For: Buyers wanting a bit more land (0.5 acre+ lots are easier to find here) and those prioritizing the Belton School District.

• Key Feature: Belton Lake. If you love boating, fishing, or hiking, being close to the lake is a massive perk.

3. The "First-Time Buyer" Hotspots

• The Vibe: Established neighborhoods with mature trees and brick homes, typically priced more affordably than new builds.

• Best For: First-time buyers who want to keep their mortgage comfortably under budget while still being in a safe, quiet area.

• Where to Look: Ask me about neighborhoods like Western Hills or Canyon Creek. These areas often offer the best "price-per-square-foot" value in town.

Temple, TX Real Estate Market (2026 Update)

Cost of Living in Temple, TX (2025 Breakdown)

One of the primary reasons people relocate to Bell County is the affordability. Temple, TX consistently ranks lower than the national average for overall cost of living, allowing your dollar to stretch further—especially compared to Austin or Dallas.

1. Housing Affordability

• The Reality: You can still find 3-bedroom, 2-bath homes for under $300,000.

• Rent vs. Buy: With median rents hovering around $1,600-$1,800 for a single-family home, buying often becomes cheaper than renting if you plan to stay for 3+ years.

• Property Taxes: Texas has no state income tax, which is a huge savings. However, property taxes in Bell County typically range from 2.2% to 2.7%. Pro Tip: Always ask me for the specific tax rate of a neighborhood before you fall in love with a house.

2. Utilities (The "Power to Choose")

Temple is in a deregulated energy market. This means you aren't stuck with one electric provider.

• Electricity: You can shop competitive rates (often 10¢-14¢ per kWh) through Power to Choose.

• Water/Trash: Managed by the City of Temple. Expect an average combined bill of $80-$120/month for a standard household.

3. Daily Expenses

• Gas: Typically 20-30 cents cheaper per gallon than the national average.

• Groceries: We have major access to affordable options like H-E-B (the Texas favorite), Walmart, and Aldi, keeping food costs reasonable.

Worried about safety? Read my honest report: Is Temple TX Safe?

This is the #1 question we get.

• Belton ISD (BISD): Often requested for its newer high schools (Lake Belton HS) and high ratings. Interestingly, West Temple is largely zoned to Belton ISD.

• Temple ISD (TISD): Offers robust career and technical programs and International Baccalaureate (IB) options.

• Tip: Never assume a school zone based on the city name! Always verify the specific address with me.

Property Taxes

Texas has No State Income Tax, which is a huge saving. However, we fund services through Property Taxes.

• Average Rate: Expect roughly 2.2% to 2.7% of your home’s assessed value per year.

• MUD/PID: Some new construction neighborhoods have extra assessments (MUDs or PIDs). We will always check this before you make an offer so there are no surprises in your monthly payment.

Buying New Construction? Read This First.

Temple and Belton are seeing a massive boom in new builds. It is tempting to walk into a model home and sign up, but stop!

3 Things You Must Know:

1. The Sales Rep Works for the Builder: The nice person in the model home represents the builder's best interest, not yours.

2. You Need Representation: As your agent, I can negotiate incentives (like closing costs or interest rate buy-downs) that you might not get on your own.

3. It Costs You Nothing: The builder pays my commission. You get expert guidance and negotiation for $0.

Search New Construction Homes in Temple / Belton / Salado Here!

Utility Provider Cheat Sheet

Save this list for when you go under contract!

• Electricity: Texas has a deregulated power grid. You can choose your provider. Shop for rates at PowerToChoose.org.

• Water/Trash:

  • Temple Residents: City of Temple Utilities

  • Belton Residents: City of Belton Utilities

• Internet: Spectrum and AT&T Fiber are the major providers in most neighborhoods.

Ready to Start Your Search?

You don't have to do this alone. Whether you are browsing from out of state or ready to look at homes this weekend, I am here to be your "Boots on the Ground."

• Watch the Neighborhood Tours

Contact Taylor Dasch

• Call/Text: 254-718-4249

• Email: [email protected]

• Brokerage: EG Realty

Helping you make the right move in Central Texas.