This is the complete guide if you're moving to Temple in 2026. Our family has lived here for 20+ years, and we deal with people moving into town every day at our self-storage facility. Here's everything you need to know, as a local would tell it.
TL;DR: Temple offers 17% lower cost of living than the national average with median home prices around $280K, sits 45 minutes from Austin on I-35 (perfect for commuters escaping high costs), and provides world-class healthcare through Baylor Scott & White. The city of 96,000 is growing rapidly with new development focused on West Adams, though property crime rates are higher than average and nightlife is limited compared to larger metros.
Why People Are Moving to Temple, TX
Temple's population has grown to about 96,000 people, up significantly in recent years. The city sits perfectly between Austin (45 minutes south) and Waco (30 minutes north) on I-35, making it an ideal spot for people escaping the high costs of bigger Texas metros while staying connected to major job markets.
Temple ranked in the Top 100 Best Places to Live in the US in 2025-2026 by U.S. News & World Report, recognizing the combination of job opportunities, affordability, and quality of life.
Here's who's moving here:
Austin commuters who want more space and lower costs
Healthcare professionals working at Baylor Scott & White (the largest employer with 12,000+ employees)
Military families near Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood)
People relocating from expensive metros looking for affordable homeownership
Young families seeking good schools and safe neighborhoods
Cost of Living: What You'll Actually Pay
Let's talk numbers because this is probably why you're considering Temple.
The cost of living in Temple is 17% lower than the national average, with housing being the biggest area of savings. The median home value in Temple is $255,731, though recent sales have shown median prices around $279,945 depending on the neighborhood and time of year.
Compare that to Austin, where median home prices remain significantly higher. You can find homes in family-friendly neighborhoods like Windmill Farms averaging around $200,000, something nearly impossible in Austin proper.
The median household income in Temple is $64,945, which stretches much further here than in Austin. Your daily expenses - groceries, gas, eating out - will also cost less. There's no Austin traffic tax on your sanity, either.
The housing market here is not very competitive, with homes selling in 96 days on average and typically going for about 3% below list price. This means you can actually tour homes and make decisions without bidding wars on every property.
Bottom line: You can own a home with a yard, have a shorter commute to work, and still be close enough to Austin when you want that big-city experience.
The Commute to Austin: I-35 Reality Check
Everyone asks about this, so here's the deal.
I-35 has major traffic during rush hour. It's particularly bad near Round Rock. But if you travel at night or adjust your schedule slightly, there's minimal to no traffic. One of our staff members commutes to and from Austin every week using I-35. It's not as bad as you may have heard. Just stay off your phone. And if you're in the fast lane, don't be a jerk.
The drive is roughly 45 minutes without traffic, up to an hour or more during peak times. Many Temple residents work remotely part of the week and commute to Austin offices the other days. The average commute time in Temple is 21.5 minutes for local jobs.
Where to Live: Temple Neighborhoods Breakdown
Choosing the right neighborhood is crucial when moving to Temple. Here's what you need to know about each area, with honest insights from someone who actually lives here.
West Adams Corridor
Price Range: $200,000-$350,000
Best For: Families, commuters, people who want new development
Away from downtown, West Adams has plenty of fast-food options, dentists, Scott & White clinics, a Walmart, and one of the best gyms in the Anytime Fitness franchise that we've seen. It's where most economic development has been focused in Temple for the past 10 years. New businesses are springing up like mad.
There are plenty of options for your morning coffee. Mostly the usual culprits you already know. However, Starbucks and Summer Moon are the only options on this street where you can sit inside to study, work, or hold a meeting. You can skip the terrifyingly long car line at Dutch Bros by ordering ahead with their app.
Watch out for school buses along West Adams when school gets out. Cops WILL pull you over if they see you don't stop when the buses' stop signs go out. It's a wide street, so pay attention to both sides if you notice a school bus.
West Adams has a sidewalk you can use to bike or walk. You rarely see anyone use it to run. That's usually something people do in their neighborhoods. A hiking trail starts off from a historical bridge with a river waterfall halfway.
This area is safe, clean, and growing fast. It's convenient for everything you need day-to-day and has easy access to I-35 for Austin commuters.
Windmill Farms
Price Range: $180,000-$220,000
Best For: Budget-conscious families, first-time homebuyers
One housing district that may be an affordable choice for families. The average price for a home sits at about $200,000. Lake Belton High School is located right next to the neighborhood, which is convenient for families with teens.
The homes here are typically 3-4 bedrooms with yards, built in the 1990s-2000s. It's a quiet, established neighborhood where kids play outside and neighbors know each other. Not fancy, but solid and affordable - exactly what many families need.
Morgan's Point Resort & Woodland Areas
Price Range: $150,000-$300,000
Best For: Nature lovers, people who want lake access, those seeking privacy
These areas near Lake Belton offer more space and a semi-rural feel while still being close to Temple amenities. Properties here range from manufactured homes to nice lakefront houses.
There are deer everywhere around Morgan's Point Resort and Woodland. Be especially safe driving in these areas at night. Driving near Belton Dam or even Mainstreet, it's not uncommon for deer to run out at your car. The junction of Mainstreet and West Adams in particular often has roadkill on the median.
If you want to be near the lake and don't mind a slightly longer drive to town, these neighborhoods offer good value and natural beauty.
Downtown Temple / Historic District
Price Range: $150,000-$350,000
Best For: Young professionals, empty nesters, people who want walkability
In July 2025, Temple Historic District home prices were up 153.6% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $279K. This area is seeing significant revitalization and investment.
Downtown Temple offers a blend of historical and modern architecture, including colonials, modern Craftsman-styles, bungalows and ranch-style houses. Many homes have been renovated.
You'll be walking distance to restaurants, shops, museums, and events. First Friday is a monthly event featuring block parties, vendors, food and drink specials, live music and entertainment. The downtown district is becoming increasingly vibrant with murals, local businesses, and community activities.
The tradeoff is less yard space and older homes (though many have been beautifully updated). But if you value walkability and community events, downtown is worth considering.
Lake Pointe & The Groves at Lakewood Ranch
Price Range: $250,000-$400,000+
Best For: Families wanting newer construction, HOA amenities
These are popular neighborhoods for people moving to Temple, offering newer homes with modern layouts, community pools, and maintained common areas. You'll pay more, but you get move-in-ready homes with warranties.
These neighborhoods attract professionals, families with school-age children, and people relocating from other metros who want a "planned community" feel. HOA fees typically run $50-$150/month.
Western Hills
Price Range: $180,000-$280,000
Best For: Established families, people wanting mature trees and character
An older, well-established neighborhood with homes from the 1960s-1980s. Mature trees line the streets, and properties tend to have larger lots than newer developments.
This is where you'll find people who've lived in Temple for decades. It's quiet, safe, and has that established neighborhood feel. Homes often need some updating, but the bones are solid and the location is convenient to everything in Temple.
Apartment and Rental Market Details
If you're planning to rent before buying (smart move), here's what you need to know beyond the average prices.
Current Market:
The median rent in Temple is $982 as of November 2025, down 2.9% year-over-year. The average rent across sources ranges from $1,143-$1,154/month. Studios average $807, 1-bedrooms $1,030, 2-bedrooms $1,181, and 3-bedrooms $1,550.
Best Apartment Complexes:
Based on reviews and local reputation:
Chappell Creek Village - Consistently the highest-rated complex. Residents rave about the friendly staff, serene creek-side setting, and spacious layouts with attached garages. One doctor lived here for 3 years during residency and said the front desk and maintenance staff are "absolutely lovely."
Wildwood Apartments (on West Adams) - Long-term residents love it here, with some staying 12-14+ years. Great management, responsive maintenance, reasonable prices, and community events like pool parties and movie nights.
Ariza Temple Apartments - Newer complex that "restored hope that apartment communities still take care of their residents." Modern amenities, 9-foot ceilings, in-home washers/dryers, resort-style pool.
Summit Ridge Apartments - Spacious rooms. Consistently ranks among Temple's best
The Village at Pepper Creek - Luxury option, excellent for commuters between Temple and Belton. We
Villas on the Hill - One of the most luxurious complexes in the Temple-Belton area
The Hudson at Crossroad District - Brand new townhome apartments in a great spot near West Adams and several parks. They’re trying to lease up, so you can move in without paying any rent until March.
Where to Focus:
South Temple (south of Adams Street) is considered the most desirable rental area. Best safety reputation, proximity to shopping and medical centers. Three-bedroom homes rent for $1,200-1,300. This area has cookie-cutter suburban developments that are newer and nicer.
Northwest Temple has seen new development recently with more apartment options than before. Similar safety record to south side but less established, fewer shopping/nightlife options.
Application Requirements:
Most landlords require credit scores of 600+, income of 3x the monthly rent, and application fees of $30-75 per adult. Pet deposits typically run $200-500, with monthly pet rent of $20-50. Many complexes have 1-3 month waitlists for specific unit sizes.
Internet Infrastructure
What's Available:
Spectrum is the dominant provider, covering 83-92% of Temple with speeds up to 1 Gbps starting at $49.99/month. Most Temple residents have Spectrum, and it's generally reliable for everyday use and remote work.
AT&T Fiber covers 48-69% of the city with speeds up to 5 Gbps starting at $55/month. Fiber availability is Temple's big advantage for remote workers. About 56% of Temple residents have access to fiber internet, with faster speeds concentrated in the northeast parts of the city.
Southeast Temple and some areas near Scott & White Medical Center have slower options, sometimes only Spectrum or Grande Communications with 30-50 Mbps. If you're a heavy internet user or remote worker, verify what's available at your specific address before signing a lease or buying.
Fiber availability varies significantly by neighborhood. New developments on the west side generally have better infrastructure than older areas. This is something to specifically ask about when house hunting if internet speed matters to you.
Safety and Crime: The Real Story
One of the most googled topics for Temple is crime. So let me be real with you. Crime in Temple is mixed, and it depends on which statistics you're looking at and where in the city you live.
Temple's violent crime rate is 20.8, which is slightly lower than the national average of 22.7. However, Temple's property crime rate is 47.3, significantly higher than the national average of 35.4. This includes things like burglary, theft, and vandalism.
More recent data shows the overall crime rate in Temple is 9.5% lower than the national average, with 353 violent crimes per 100,000 individuals and 1,751 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Temple residents generally consider the northwest part of the city to be the safest.
Lock your car. Don't leave valuables visible. Use basic common sense. Most neighborhoods, especially newer developments and areas like West Adams, feel safer for families. But Temple isn't immune to property crime, particularly vehicle theft.
Our personal experience over 20+ years? We've never had any incidents where we live. Like any city, some areas are safer than others. Do your research on specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
Jobs and Economy
Temple's job market is diverse and growing. Key employment sectors include:
Healthcare: Baylor Scott & White Health is the region's largest employer. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center ranks #7 among Best Regional Hospitals in Texas. The medical industry creates thousands of jobs from doctors and nurses to administrative and support positions. You’ll see lots of young resident families at church.
Manufacturing & Distribution: McLane Company (a major supply chain services company with 80+ distribution centers nation-wide) is a significant employer in this category. Temple's location on I-35 makes it attractive for logistics operations.
Military-Connected: Fort Cavazos (Killeen) is nearby, creating jobs both on base and in supporting industries.
Retail & Service: As the city grows, so do opportunities in restaurants, shops, and local businesses. Naturally.
Tech: Meta, formerly known as Facebook, is building a 900,000 square feet data center on Eberhardt Road and Industrial Boulevard that’ll open in 2026. Per Meta themselves, the data center will create 100 job openings.
Small Business Friendly: Temple's Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation actively support entrepreneurs. The pro-growth environment makes it easier to start local businesses.
The unemployment rate is 7.2%, and the city continues to attract new businesses, especially along the West Adams corridor towards the lake.
Schools and Education
The quality of schools is one of the biggest factors for families moving to Temple. Here's the local’s breakdown of what you need to know.
Temple Independent School District (TISD)
Temple High School - The Wildcats
Temple High School is the main public high school serving Temple, with 2,342 students in grades 9-12 and a student-teacher ratio of 13:1. I’ll give you the complete run-down, both the good and the possibly disappointing.
Student Demographics: 48% Hispanic, 26% Black, 20% White, 4% Two or more races, 2% Asian.
The Positives:
Temple High School became an International Baccalaureate (IB) authorized school in 1992 and is currently one of 46 IB authorized high schools in Texas. To date, Temple High School has awarded over 100 IB diplomas. The IB program is a significant draw for academically ambitious students who want college-level rigor.
The school offers AP courses, International Baccalaureate programs, and 28 sports, providing diverse opportunities for students with different interests and talents.
The Temple High School theater department has a 30-year streak as district UIL One-Act Play champions, advancing to the UIL 5A State One-Act Play competition 7 times, winning in 2007 and 2016. If your kid is into theater, this program is legitimately impressive.
Athletics are serious here. Temple Wildcats football is ranked fourth in Texas for total games won with 753, behind only Highland Park, Amarillo, and Plano. The team has won 2 state championships (1979 and 1992). The 11,500-capacity Wildcat Stadium shows how seriously Temple takes high school football.
The graduation rate is 94.9% for the Class of 2023, with only a 0.7% dropout rate, solid indicators that most students make it through.
The Disappointing:
Temple High School's academic performance is below state averages. Only 23% of students achieved math proficiency (compared to 44% Texas average) and 29% achieved reading proficiency (compared to 51% Texas average). The school ranks #7,422 out of 8,096 schools, placing it in the bottom 50% of Texas public schools.
Average SAT score is 949 (out of 1600) and average ACT score is 20.8, which are below national averages. The school received an overall rating of "C" from the Texas Education Agency for the 2021-2022 school year.
What This Means for You:
Now, that’s not so good. But here’s part of why these statistics may be misleading. Temple High School is the only public high school actually in Temple. And if you separate the performance of students in advanced vs regular classes, you’ll notice a stark difference between the two. It's not the worst high school in the world, but us locals see it as being the ghetto option.
Temple High School offers excellent opportunities through IB, AP, theater, and athletics. But the overall academic performance is concerning if your priority is strong test scores and college prep across all students. The school works well for motivated students who take advantage of advanced programs, but struggles to lift overall achievement.
Many families moving to Temple specifically pursue the IB program, which provides a path to college success. Others supplement with tutoring or look at private school options.
Belton High School (Belton ISD)
Some Temple neighborhoods, particularly those near the Belton border like parts of Windmill Farms, are zoned for Belton High School or Lake Belton High School instead of Temple High School.
Academic Performance:
35% of students achieved math proficiency and 45% achieved reading proficiency - significantly higher than Temple High School's scores.
The graduation rate is 96.7% for the Class of 2023, with only a 0.4% dropout rate.
Average SAT score is 959 and average ACT score is 20, slightly better than Temple High School but still below the national average.
Belton High School is ranked #1,171 within Texas and #12,763 nationally, much better than Temple High School's rankings.
Student Population: 1,941 students in grades 9-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 12:1.
The school offers AP courses with a 20% participation rate, the Project Lead The Way curriculum, and a Gifted & Talented program.
The Temple-Belton Rivalry:
Belton's rival is the Temple High School Wildcats, most visible during the yearly Belton-Temple football game. The two schools didn't play each other from 1936 to 1995 due to a county judge's decree after fights between fans became violent. Today the rivalry is friendly but intense, with custom shirts and minor pranks leading up to the game.
Charter Schools:
New Tech @ Waskow - Modeled after the New Tech school in California, this charter school requires an application with a max grade size of 160 or so students. Learning is group project based, and students are given macbooks and can rent other tech from the school for projects. Freshmen are required to take a class on Photoshop. It’s known as the school where kids go who can’t fit in, but it's a much more advanced learning environment than Belton High School with a focus on training students for college and tech skills in the real world. Teachers here are used to students with different learning styles. The small class size feels like a family but can make bullying a lot more hurtful. Students charter to Belton High School for sports, and electives not offered by New Tech.
Private Schools:
Holy Trinity Catholic High School
Located in Temple, Holy Trinity is ranked #236 among Best Private High Schools in Texas with 111 students and a 6:1 student-teacher ratio. Parents report strong academics, active forensics team, and solid theater program. This is an option for families seeking smaller class sizes and faith-based education, though tuition applies.
Other Area High Schools
Lake Belton High School - Part of Belton ISD, this is another option depending on where exactly you live in the Temple area.
Elementary and Middle Schools
Like any district, quality varies by campus within TISD. Research specific schools in neighborhoods you're considering. Check TISD's website for ratings, programs, and boundaries. Many families specifically choose neighborhoods based on elementary school zones.
Higher Education Options
Temple College is the 11th best community college in the country. High school students can earn dual credit, and adults can pursue continuing education or workforce training. It's an excellent resource for affordable higher education. The college also hosts cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibitions and a Jazz Festival. Lots of summer programs are available here for children and teens. You can put your kids in year-long musical tutoring, as well.
Nearby Universities: University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton has an excellent nursing program. Texas A&M University Central Texas in Killeen provides four-year degree options without leaving the area.
The Bottom Line on Schools
If school quality is your top priority, research exactly which high school zone you're buying in. Some Temple neighborhoods feed to Belton High School, which performs measurably better than Temple High School academically. Within Temple High School, the IB program and advanced courses provide strong opportunities for motivated students, but overall academic performance lags behind state averages.
Many families moving to Temple accept the tradeoff of lower-performing schools in exchange for affordability, knowing they can supplement education or pursue the IB/AP track. Others specifically target Belton ISD zones or consider private school options like Holy Trinity.
Childcare: Several private centers, church-based programs, and in-home providers operate throughout Temple. Start your search early, as popular centers can have waitlists.
Where to Eat: Temple's Restaurant Scene
Temple's food scene has grown significantly in recent years. While you won't find Austin's density of options, there are some genuinely excellent local spots worth knowing about.
Downtown Temple Restaurants
Pignetti's - Cozy Italian restaurant serving handmade pasta and earning Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence five times. The Fettuccine Pignetti is a local favorite. Now open Sundays. This is the place for date night or celebrating special occasions.
Cheeves Bros Steakhouse - White tablecloth steakhouse serving USDA prime steaks and South African lobster tails. They've won the Wine Spectator award 8 years in a row. Expensive but excellent for a special night out.
Bird Creek Burger Co. - Locally-owned, scratch-based restaurant serving gourmet-style burgers including lamb, bison, chicken, black bean, or beef. Locals say these are the best burgers in town. Try the bread pudding with whiskey sauce for dessert.
Treno Pizzeria & Tap Room - Brick oven artisan pies and 36 beer and wine taps. There's apparently a "pizza war" going on in Temple between three establishments, and locals have strong opinions. Same owner as Bird Creek.
17 South - Consistently highly rated on Yelp and local reviews. Modern American cuisine in a stylish downtown setting.
Megg's Cafe - Family-owned spot focusing on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The menu changes based on what local farmers have available. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
Other Notable Restaurants
Green's Sausage House - Serves breakfast and lunch (closes at 5 p.m.). Locals say they have the best kolaches in Temple. Worth the drive to the country for breakfast.
Miller's Smokehouse - Solid Texas barbecue. You're in Central Texas, so BBQ is a requirement. Brisket, ribs, and sausage done right.
Cantina 1948 - Highly rated Mexican restaurant. Fresh, authentic food that locals love.
La Dalat - Vietnamese cuisine that gets rave reviews. If you want something different from Tex-Mex and BBQ, this is a great option.
Mosaic Grill - Another local favorite with diverse American menu options.
Seoul Garden - Sushi and hibachi steakhouse for Japanese food cravings.
Mee Mee's Thai Cuisine - Fresh, authentic Thai food with aromatic ingredients.
Coffee Situation
As mentioned earlier, Starbucks and Summer Moon on West Adams are the only places where you can actually sit inside to work or meet someone. Most other spots are drive-through only. If you need a workspace café like you'd find in Austin, your options are limited.
The food scene is evolving as the population grows. You'll find the major chains plus these local favorites, though Temple isn't (yet) a foodie destination like Austin. But for a city this size, the restaurant quality is surprisingly good.
Downtown Temple: What's Actually There
Downtown Temple has changed a lot in recent years. But there are some things that you have to know about if you’re moving here. Downtown features unique architecture, shopping, live entertainment, locally-owned restaurants, museums, and year-round events and festivals.
Events and Atmosphere
Each month downtown Temple comes alive on First Friday. This event features block parties, vendors, food and drink specials, live music and entertainment. It's genuinely fun. Locals actually show up, streets close down, and the whole area has a festival vibe.
There's also Second Saturday events, outdoor movie nights at The Yard, and seasonal festivals. Downtown has become a legitimate gathering spot, not just something the chamber of commerce pretends exists.
Shopping and Attractions
Downtown is lined with locally owned markets and shops, like The Book Cellar and Parlor Antiques and Oddities. The family-owned Kerley Grocery & Market, a neighborhood institution since 1954, provides hand-cut meats and spices.
The Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum is located in the historic Santa Fe Depot - it's a Prairie-Beaux Arts-style building with railroad equipment displays. If you have kids, Whistle Stop Park nearby has a train-themed playground with wooden trains and views of real trains passing by.
Artful murals cover building walls throughout the Downtown District. There's even a "selfie trail" if you're into that sort of thing.
The Yard Food Truck Plaza
Located on 1st Street and Santa Fe Market Trail, this space features rotating food trucks and hosts events throughout the year. It's a great casual spot for trying different cuisines.
Cultural Activities Center
Temple's Cultural Activities Center hosts galleries, live music, symphonic concerts, theatrical plays, and private events. It's a legit arts venue for a city this size.
Reality Check
Downtown Temple is improving significantly, but let's be honest, it's still small. You can walk the entire downtown area in 20 minutes. It's not Austin's 6th Street or even Waco's downtown. But for a city of 96,000, it punches above its weight.
The revitalization is real and ongoing. More businesses are opening, buildings are being renovated, and young people are actually choosing to live there. If you're moving to Temple and want some walkable urban character, downtown is becoming a legitimate option.
Things to Do: Local Favorites For Families
Downtown, the City of Temple Public Library is a seriously great library with an entire floor dedicated to children's and adolescent books. It has the Bluebonnet award winners set up in a special section every year so you can read along with your children. The Temple and Belton school districts usually factor these award-winning books into programs for school children. Sometimes these programs even offer awards to your kids for reading all of them.
Whistle Stop Park is a super fun place to let your children play. It's located next to the historic railroad. There are old train cars you can tour.
The Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum offers a journey through the era of steam engines and classic coaches, while the Czech Heritage Museum showcases Temple's immigrant origins and cultural heritage.
Best Neighborhoods for Halloween Trick-or-Treating
If you're moving to Temple with kids, you'll want to know where to take them on Halloween. Based on local experience, here are the best neighborhoods for trick-or-treating:
West Adams/Lake Pointe Area - The newer developments in this area have houses close together (less walking, more candy), well-lit streets, and lots of families who participate. Sidewalks make it safe for kids to walk. This area goes all-out with decorations, and you'll see plenty of other trick-or-treaters, which adds to the festive atmosphere.
Windmill Farms - Family-oriented neighborhood where neighbors know each other and participate enthusiastically. Houses are close enough that kids don't get exhausted, and the area is safe with minimal traffic on Halloween night.
Downtown Neighborhoods - Some of the historic neighborhoods near downtown have great Halloween spirit. Older homes often mean more generous candy givers and creative decorations. Plus, walkability is built-in.
Community Events - Temple hosts the annual Fright Fest "Creep Thru" at Santa Fe Plaza on Halloween night (typically 6-8 PM), offering safe trick-or-treating, costume contests, and entertainment. This is perfect for younger kids or if your neighborhood doesn't have many participants. The Temple Public Library also hosts "Trick-or-Read" with crafts and activities all day on Halloween.
Christmas Activities and Events in Temple
If you're moving to Temple, you'll want to know what the holiday season looks like. Temple goes all-out for Christmas with a month-long celebration called "Holly Jolly" featuring events, activities, and enough festive spirit to make even the Grinch smile.
78th Annual Christmas Parade
This is the big one. Temple has hosted this parade since 1946, and it's one of the largest lighted Christmas parades in Texas. Held annually on the first Monday in December at 6:30 PM, the parade features over 100 uniquely lit displays, floats, bands, community organizations, and student groups.
The parade route runs through downtown Temple and lasts approximately 90 minutes. Seating is first-come, first-serve, so arrive early for the best spots. Free parking is available at City Hall, Santa Fe Plaza, Extraco Parking Plaza, and street parking not on the parade route.
This is a genuine community tradition where local businesses, schools, and organizations come together. Bring blankets, chairs, and hot chocolate. It gets cold in December.
Christmas at the Plaza
On November 29, Santa Fe Plaza transforms into a holiday wonderland with the tree lighting show, one of the most magical displays in Central Texas. This event kicks off the Holly Jolly season with twinkling lights, a holiday market, festive treats, family activities, and live entertainment.
The tree lighting ceremony itself is spectacular, complete with music and a countdown that kids genuinely love.
Rink on the Rails
Temple's outdoor ice skating rink returns downtown during the holiday season. This is Temple's winter wonderland moment – actual ice skating in Central Texas. It's a unique experience for a region where ice skating rinks are rare.
Santa at the Depot
The Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum hosts Santa visits in early December (typically December 6, 10 AM–2 PM). Kids can meet Santa, take photos, and enjoy the festive atmosphere at the historic Santa Fe Depot.
Polar Express at the Depot
The museum also hosts Polar Express-themed events where kids can experience the magic of the beloved Christmas story in a real railroad setting.
Jingle Jam
Downtown Temple hosts this festive event featuring live music, holiday cheer, food, and entertainment. It's part of the monthly First Friday celebration but with extra Christmas spirit.
Kringle Krawl
A holiday-themed downtown event where you can explore local shops and restaurants with special deals, holiday decorations, and festive activities.
Merry & Bright Holiday Lights Tour & Contest
The City of Temple hosts an inaugural holiday lights tour where residents decorate their homes and compete for recognition. Grab a map online at templetx.gov/holidaylights and take an evening drive or neighborhood stroll to see the wonderfully decorated homes. Vote for your favorite, this is Temple's version of the Griswold Christmas decorating championship.
A Very Special Christmas
Temple hosts a free community event at Wilson Park Rec for children with special needs and developmental disabilities and their families. Held in early December from 12–2 PM, it includes toys from Santa, snacks, holiday crafts, games, and light refreshments. Registration is through Eventbrite.
Senior Christmas Dinner
Temple's Parks & Recreation hosts the annual Senior Christmas Dinner, a festive gathering for the community's older residents.
Nearby Christmas Events
If you want even more holiday activities, nearby cities offer additional options:
Nature in Lights at Belton Lake - Drive-through experience with 5 miles of illuminated holiday displays, Santa's Village, hot cocoa, and crafts
Christmas on the Chisholm Trail in Belton - Downtown celebration with over 100 vendors, holiday market, live performances, and a parade starting at 6 PM
Holiday Under the Stars in Killeen - Tree lighting ceremony, Jingle Bell Dash 5K, and Festival of Holidays
In summary, we take Christmas seriously. From late November through the New Year, there's something festive happening almost every weekend. It's a genuine small-town Christmas experience with parades, lights, and community spirit.
Lake Belton
Lake Belton may have caught your attention when you looked around Temple & Belton on Google Maps. It can be a fun place to boat or hold a picnic during the spring or summer. There are several boat docks along its coast. And there's a particularly good hiking trail that you can find at the end of West Adams. The lake has a toll to enter, but the city offers passes you can buy.
Now, here's what people don't usually tell you. After winter when things start heating up, it smells really bad. All the decaying lake matter gets caught in the conventional current and carried to the surface. If you need to drive over Belton dam every day, that's something to at least be aware of. Dead Fish Grill has a great view of the lake, but bugs are common if you eat outside, and the seafood isn't anything special.
Outdoor Recreation
Temple offers over 30 parks and trails, including the Pepper Creek Trail for hiking and biking. 5Ks and community runs are often held around town.
Sammons Golf Course provides options for golfers looking for relaxation and recreation.
Miller Springs Nature Center has 11 miles of hiking and biking trails on 260 acres, with over 200 species of wildflowers and 90 varieties of birds. Admission is free.
Temple’s Healthcare: World-Class in Your Backyard
This is one of Temple's biggest advantages. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center is a nationally recognized hospital system. You're getting big-city medical care in a smaller city. The entire healthcare network employs over 12,000 people and serves Central Texas.
McLane Children's Medical Center focuses on pediatric healthcare, while the VA Central Texas Healthcare System provides dedicated healthcare services to veterans.
Multiple clinics, specialists, and urgent care facilities are scattered throughout Temple, with heavy concentration along West Adams.
Weather in Temple: The Texas Heat is Real
Summers in Temple are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and July being the warmest month with highs in the mid to upper 90s. Everyone has air conditioning. It's not optional. Your electric bill will reflect this. Outdoor activities still happen all day in July-August, so wear light clothing and drink LOTS OF WATER.
Winter is laughably mild by Northern standards. 40s and 50s are "cold" here. You'll see locals in winter coats when it's 55°F outside. Last year (2025), the weather was actually quite warm from October to December. People wore shorts on Christmas day. There are rare colder spells where temperatures can drop below freezing at night. Snow is rare but ice storms can happen.
Spring brings beautiful wildflowers, including the famous Texas bluebonnets. These are a local favorite for family pictures. It's also tornado season. Have a weather radio or app and know where your safe space is.
The May 22, 2024 Tornado: What You Need to Know
If you're researching Temple, you've probably come across news about the tornado. Here's the honest story.
On May 22, 2024, an EF-2 tornado struck West Temple at 6:21 PM with maximum winds of 120 mph, followed by a brief EF-1 tornado minutes later. Nearly 500 homes and businesses were destroyed or severely damaged, primarily in the Lake Pointe and Lake Pointe Terrace subdivisions - one of the newest areas of West Temple.
Miraculously, no lives were lost, though more than 30 people were injured. The tornado's path moved from near Morgan's Point Resort across West Adams Avenue, damaging homes, restaurants, shops, and businesses. Pignetti's downtown had its roof collapse during dinner service, and Seoul Garden, Summer Moon Coffee, and other West Adams establishments sustained devastating damage.
The Community Response:
What stands out most isn't the destruction, it's how Temple responded. In the first 24 hours after the tornado, first responders handled over 1,000 calls, with more than 200 being search and rescues. Residents immediately organized through Facebook groups, matching people who needed help with volunteers offering assistance. Neighbors sheltered strangers, cleared debris, and rebuilt together.
The city has collected over 300,000 cubic yards of storm debris, with recovery costs around $7.7 million. One year later, most affected areas have been rebuilt or are in the process of reconstruction.
What This Means for You:
Central Texas gets tornadoes. They're part of living here, just like hurricanes are part of living on the coast. The May 2024 tornado was a significant event, but it's not an every-year occurrence.
Temple has tornado sirens, emergency alert systems, and experienced emergency management teams. The city proved it can handle disasters effectively. Most homes have storm plans and safe rooms or interior bathrooms designated for shelter.
Key takeaways:
Get a weather alert app or NOAA radio
Know where your safe space is (interior bathroom or closet, lowest floor, away from windows)
Have emergency supplies ready
The community will help if disaster strikes
The 2024 tornado shouldn't scare you away from Temple - it should show you that this is a resilient community that takes care of its own.
Temple’s Nightlife and Entertainment: Is There Anything to Do?
To be realistic about Temple's nightlife, it's not Austin's 6th Street or even Waco's bar scene. But for a city this size, there's more happening after dark than you might expect.
Bars and Breweries
Downtown Temple Nightlife:
O'Briens Irish Pub on Central Avenue is the local institution where live piano performances create atmosphere. This is the "everyone knows your name" spot that locals love.
Treno Pizzeria & Taproom downtown features 36 beer and wine taps - the same owner as Bird Creek Burger Co., so you know the quality is solid.
FoxDog Beer Garden and BJ's Brewery and Tasting Room offer locally brewed craft beers. FoxDog hosts events and has that community beer garden vibe.
The Green Door stays open until the wee hours and is considered the pulse of Temple's late-night scene. If you want to stay out past midnight, this is your spot.
Sports Bars:
Chappell Hill Bar & Grill is perfect for catching games with fellow fans, featuring multiple big screens and that competitive spirit atmosphere. They also host karaoke and trivia nights when there aren't games.
Temple also has an arcade bar featuring classic arcade games and memorabilia from the 70s, 80s, and 90s - a unique spot for a nostalgic night out.
Live Music and Events
Several downtown bars feature live music, karaoke, or comedy shows throughout the week. First Friday events often include live entertainment in addition to the block party atmosphere.
Wine and Upscale Options
Pignetti's offers an extensive wine selection and meticulously mixed cocktails with sophisticated interiors - perfect for date night or special occasions.
Reality Check on Nightlife
Downtown is your main nightlife hub. You'll find a decent concentration of bars and venues, but it's still limited compared to bigger cities. Most places close by midnight or 1 AM, except for a few late-night spots. There's no club scene to speak of.
The vibe is more "friendly neighborhood bar" than "nightclub district." People come to Temple for family life and affordability, not party culture. If you need regular access to a robust nightlife scene, you'll be driving to Austin.
But for grabbing drinks with friends, catching a game, or enjoying live music on weekends? Temple delivers enough to keep things interesting without the Austin price tags or crowds.
What Temple‘s Nightlife Isn't
Let's be real. Temple isn't Austin's entertainment district. The scene is growing but it's nothing impressive.
Temple is a family-oriented, practical city. It's where you move when you want affordability, safety, and normalcy, not when you want to be in the middle of constant activity.
If you need frequent access to big-city amenities beyond bars and restaurants, you'll be driving to Austin or relying on what Waco offers. For many people, that's a reasonable tradeoff for the cost savings and quality of life.
What You Really Need to Know Before Committing to Temple
These are the practical realities that don't make it into the promotional materials but matter significantly when you're actually living here.
Industrial Area Warning: The Moores Mill Road Smell
Here's something the chamber of commerce won't tell you, but locals definitely know about.
Residents near the Niagara Bottling plant on Moores Mill Road have reported "stomach-turning" foul odors for years. The smell has been described as "rotting flesh, rotten garlic, all in a septic system" and intensifies after rain and during summer months.
The city has been considering adding a chemical manufacturing facility nearby, which has raised additional concerns among residents in that area.
Avoid house hunting near Moores Mill Road and industrial zones on the east side of Temple if you're sensitive to smells. Drive through neighborhoods at different times of day before committing, especially in summer. This isn't a city-wide issue – it's specific to certain industrial areas – but it's worth knowing about.
Diversity and Demographics
Temple is more diverse than many small Texas cities, largely due to its proximity to Fort Cavazos (the military base) and Baylor Scott & White's international healthcare workforce.
Demographic Breakdown:
Based on Temple High School's student population (which reflects the broader community): 48% Hispanic, 26% Black, 20% White, 4% Two or more races, 2% Asian.
The military-connected population creates more diversity and transience than you'd find in a typical small Central Texas town. You'll meet people from all over the country and world, especially in healthcare and military communities.
Temple is more culturally mixed than Belton or Salado, but less diverse than Killeen (which is directly adjacent to the military base). If you're moving from a major metro and diversity matters to you, Temple sits in the middle – not homogeneous, but not as cosmopolitan as Austin.
Childcare: Costs and Availability
For families with young kids, childcare is a major expense and logistical concern.
The Numbers:
The average cost of full-time daycare in Temple is $612-$680 per month. This breaks down to infant care around $700-800/month, toddlers $600-700/month, and preschoolers $600-650/month.
For context, this is dramatically cheaper than Austin (where daycare averages much higher) but still represents a significant household expense.
The Waitlist Reality:
Popular centers have waitlists of 3-6 months. As soon as you know you're moving to Temple, start researching and getting on waitlists. Some parents register for daycare before their child is even born.
Temple has 48 daycares total: 16 home-based programs and 32 centers. Many accept children from 6 weeks to 12 years old, with before/after school care available.
Recommended Centers:
Based on parent reviews and local reputation:
The Kidz Stop Childcare (6:30 AM–7:30 PM, accepts infants)
A New Day Learning Academy (7:00 AM–5:30 PM)
Little Learners Education Center (6:30 AM–6:00 PM)
Ebony & Ivory's Child Care and Learning Center
Financial Assistance:
Low-income families may qualify for assistance through Texas Workforce Commission's Child Care Services (CCS) program. Head Start and Early Head Start programs also offer comprehensive early childhood education for qualifying families.
Church and Religious Community
Texas is Bible Belt territory, and Temple reflects that reality. Church culture is significant here, and for most residents, church is their primary social community.
What's Available:
Catholic Churches: St. Mary's Catholic Church (established 1883, the oldest in Temple), St. Luke's Catholic Church, Christ the King Catholic Church, and Holy Trinity. St. Mary's offers multiple Sunday masses at 7:30 AM, 9:15 AM, and 11:00 AM, plus weekday masses.
Protestant Churches: Temple has numerous Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Pentecostal, and non-denominational churches. Some of the larger, more active congregations include:
Trinity Church (contemporary, family-focused)
Temple Bible Church
Agape Christian Center (known for prison ministry and food pantry)
Vista Community Church
The Vine Church
Texas has 210 megachurches statewide, though Temple doesn't have any true "megachurches" (2,000+ weekly attendance).
The Culture:
Church attendance and involvement is common in Temple. Many social connections, especially for families, happen through church communities. Sunday mornings see noticeable traffic around major churches.
If you're not religious, you won't be ostracized, but you'll notice church culture is more visible than in secular urban areas. Conversations often loop around to "what church do you attend?" as a getting-to-know-you question.
For non-Christian faiths, options are more limited. You'll find some presence in nearby Killeen (military diversity) or need to drive to Austin or Waco for synagogues, mosques, or temples.
Pet-Friendly Living
If you're moving with dogs or cats, here's what you need to know.
Dog Parks and Trails:
Temple doesn't have a dedicated enclosed dog park, which frustrates many pet owners. Your best options are:
Pepper Creek Trail for leashed walks
Lake Belton trails (dogs allowed on leash)
Miller Springs Nature Center trails
Your own fenced yard (a major selling point for house hunters with dogs)
Veterinary Care:
Temple has multiple quality vet clinics including emergency care options. Prices are reasonable compared to urban areas. Baylor Scott & White's veterinary connections mean there's good access to specialized animal care if needed.
Apartment Pet Policies:
Most apartments allow pets with restrictions: typically 2 pets maximum, weight limits of 40-75 lbs, breed restrictions (no pit bulls, rottweilers, etc.), pet deposits of $200-500, and monthly pet rent of $20-50 per animal.
Houses for rent are often more pet-friendly than apartments, especially for large dogs.
Cultural Adjustment for Out-of-State Movers
If you're moving to Temple from outside Texas, here's what to expect culturally.
Texas Accent:
Yes, people have accents here. It's not as thick as the stereotypes suggest, but you'll hear "y'all," dropped "g"s, and Southern pronunciation. Healthcare professionals and military families bring diverse accents, so it's not universal.
You'll stand out temporarily with a Northern or West Coast accent, but literally no one cares after the first conversation. Texans are friendly to transplants.
Pace of Life:
Things move slow here. Customer service is chattier. People make small talk with strangers. Cashiers will be friendlier than you’re used to and will try to strike up a conversation as you check-out. This is either charming or annoying depending on your personality.
Southern hospitality is real here: holding doors, giving compliments, waving to strangers. This isn't fake. And you'll be expected to reciprocate. Not waving back or saying thank you when someone holds a door will make you look rude.
Gun Culture:
This is Texas. Many residents own firearms, hunt, and have concealed carry permits. Among men especially, it's a topic of conversation. Dads take their sons hunting. Gun shops and ranges are common. We’ve gone to friend’s houses on visits that ended with them showing off their pieces. Is everyone like this? Of course not. But if guns make you uncomfortable, Temple might not be your place. Or it may simply be something you have to adapt to. There’s never been a mass shooting in Temple.
Social Scene by Demographic
Young Professionals (22-35):
The social scene is limited. Most socializing happens through work connections (especially in healthcare), bars/restaurants downtown, or by driving to Austin, Waco, or Fort Worth. There's no vibrant young professional networking scene like you'd find in larger cities.
The dating pool is painfully small if you're single. Forget using dating apps unless you set your area to Waco or Austin. The only people who find their spouse in Temple in our experience meet them in Highschool, church, or at work. That’s bound to be depressing to some of you, but this is a small town with trade-off’s. The hot young people come from money, and they leave Temple asap after graduating to pursue their career elsewhere. Temple is where you raise a family. You probably won’t meet the love of your life.
Families with Kids:
This is Temple's sweet spot. Church groups, school connections, sports leagues, and neighborhood friendships create solid social networks. Move to the right neighborhood, and you’ll see children playing together in the street all summer. Your social life will revolve around your kids' activities and school events.
Retirees:
Temple attracts retirees seeking affordability and healthcare access. The senior center, churches, and community events provide social opportunities. The pace is slower, costs are lower, and healthcare is excellent, three big priorities for retirees.
The senior community in Temple is genuinely welcoming. Church communities play a significant role for many older residents, offering both spiritual support and social connection. Walking clubs, book clubs, and hobby groups make it easy for newcomers to find friends.
LGBTQ+ Community:
Temple doesn't have a visible LGBTQ+ community or dedicated spaces. There isn’t any such thing as a pride parade here. LGBTQ+ residents move to Austin or keep a low profile. Acceptance varies, but this isn't an openly progressive environment. Expect your Grindr to be dry here.
Military Families:
Due to proximity to Fort Cavazos, Temple has a significant military-connected population. These families are often transient (2-4 year assignments) and form their own social networks. If you're military-connected, you'll find your people easily.
What's New in Temple in 2026
If you've been reading outdated information about Temple, here's what's changed recently and what's coming.
Recent Additions (2023-2025):
West Adams corridor continues exploding with new retail and restaurants
Downtown revitalization bringing new businesses to historic buildings
Multiple new housing developments opening on the north and west sides
Post-tornado reconstruction in Lake Pointe area nearing completion
Several restaurants reopened after tornado damage (Pignetti's, Shipley’s Donuts, others)
Upcoming Development:
Temple has $366 million in improvements underway
Continued focus on downtown enhancement and walkability
New commercial development planned along I-35 corridor
Parks and recreation expansions
Meta's data center in Temple is expected to be completed during 2026
What's Been Lost:
Some businesses didn't recover after the May 2024 tornado
A few historic downtown buildings still awaiting renovation
Typical small-city retail churn – local businesses open and close regularly
Temple is in a growth phase. The city is actively trying to attract new residents and businesses, which means you'll see construction, new development, and changes. This is a city on the upswing, not stagnant.
Actually Moving to Temple: Your next Steps
Housing Search
Start looking online at Zillow, Realtor.com, and local real estate agents' sites like Magnolia Realty. Temple ranked among the 50 tightest housing markets in spring 2025, with inventory levels significantly below pre-pandemic numbers, though it's not as competitive as Austin.
The average rent for an apartment in Temple is $1,151, with studios around $807, one-bedrooms at $1,030, and two-bedrooms at $1,181. Renting in Temple is 36% lower than the national average.
Storage During Your Move
This is where we come in. Temple Star Storage provides short-term and long-term storage for people moving to the area. Common scenarios:
You sold your old place but your new home isn't ready yet
You're downsizing and need time to sort belongings
You're staying with family temporarily while house hunting
You want to stage your belongings during home showings
Climate-controlled units are essential for Texas heat, especially for furniture, electronics, and anything that can't handle temperature swings.
Utilities Setup
Temple Utilities handles electricity, water, and sewer for most of the city. Contact them 1-2 weeks before your move-in date. Trash and recycling are typically included with water service.
Internet options include Spectrum, AT&T, and possibly local providers depending on your address. Check availability before committing to a plan.
Getting Involved
Join local Facebook groups for Temple residents. Living in Temple/Belton is the biggest one with 30.1K people. But all groups are active and helpful for newcomers asking questions. The Temple Chamber of Commerce offers resources and networking for new residents, especially if you're bringing or starting a business.
The Bottom Line on Moving to Temple
Temple works best for people who:
Want homeownership without financial stress
Value safety, good schools, and community over nightlife
Work remotely or can handle a commute to Austin/Waco
Prefer suburban or small-city living to urban density
Want access to excellent healthcare
Are starting families or raising children
Temple has $366 million in improvements underway to enhance quality of life, showing the city's commitment to growth and resident satisfaction.
Is Temple perfect? Of course not. But if you're priced out of Austin, tired of traffic, or simply want more space and financial breathing room, Temple offers a solid alternative. You get Texas charm, a location just a short trip away from every major city in Central Texas, and real affordability.
Welcome to Temple. We’ll reserve you a storage unit for when you arrive.
Temple Star Storage helps families move to Temple as the #1 reason people come to us. We're locals who actually live here, and we're always happy to answer questions about the area. Learn more about our storage facility here.