Killeen, TX

Overall Score

In the central part of Texas lies the town of Quillin, founded in 1881. In those days, this was the site of the small farming community of Palo Alto, specializing in the cultivation of agricultural crops. To the southwest of it, a railroad company bought a 1.5-square-kilometer plot of land. It was decided to name the town after Assistant Director Frank Killeen. In less than a year after the first building was completed, there were several small grocery stores with basic necessities, a school, a depot and a saloon. Over time, the residents of a number of nearby farms moved to the new village, increasing the number of residents. ×Three years after its founding, Killeen had a foundry, a sawmill, a mill, a mill with a sewing machine and a small hotel.

By the early 20th century, Killeen had become a shipping station for silk, cotton, and grain to neighboring counties. The construction of bridges across the creeks has greatly expanded the trading area by nearly two times. Soon the public water pipeline was put into operation. Prior to 1942, Killeen was a small farming center. The citys economic situation changed dramatically when the World War II Army Depot, established for World War II, appeared in its site. It took over nearly half of the market area, leaving out the farms and factories.

The city added new businesses to service the wartime camp. After the war ended, the camp was closed and the city was in economic decline. Killeens new heyday began in 1950 with the creation of a permanent military base near it. Twenty-two years later, a municipal airport, college and library were established within the city limits. Now the towns main employer is the Fort Hood Army Depot. Theater plays an important role in Killeens cultural life. Every year there are several plays on its stage, including the popular musicals with songs by Elvis Presley.

Overall Score

• Tap water: Yes, safe to drink
• Religious government: Non-religious
• Population: 140,000 people
• GDP: $57,808 / year
• Foreigners can own real estate: Yes
• Power outlets: 115V60Hz
• Internet: 50 Mbps
• Best wireless: AT&ampT
• Pay without cash: Yes, cards OK almost everywhere
• Tipping: How much should I tip at a restaurant? A gratuity of 15 to 20 per cent on top of the bill (before sales tax) is standard, with 25 per cent given for topnotch service. Servers in America work hard for the money – they’re generally friendly, knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile for customers.
• Apartment listings:
• Apartments: Airbnb
• Hotels: Booking.com
• More hotels: Hotels.com
• Best taxi: Uber
• Online electronics shop: Amazon
• Best hospital: Metroplex Health System
• Best intl air carrier: Jet Blue
• Monthly costs for expat: $2000
• Monthly costs for family: $4800
• Monthly costs for local: $1350
• Meal: $12
• Small Cola: $2
• Beer 1 Pint: $5
• Coffee: $4

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