Property taxes are going up in western Bell County, bringing higher costs for homeowners and investors in Killeen, Harker Heights, and Nolanville. With the new rates and small changes in home values, many people expect bigger tax bills in 2025. However, current exemptions and possible statewide updates could help lower costs for those who qualify. Discover how these changes might affect your next property tax bill and what you can do to prepare.

Killeen faces the biggest increase in property tax rates, climbing from about $1.99 to $2.05 per $100 of a home’s assessed value, nearly a 3% increase. Average home values are also slightly higher, with homesteads now at $245,964 and non-homesteads at $231,665. This means the average non-homestead property tax bill rises to about $4,745, up roughly 4% from last year. These property tax rates include city, county, and school district taxes.

Texas offers homestead exemptions that can lower property taxes on your primary home. The standard exemption removes $100,000 from your home’s taxable value, which can reduce a typical Killeen homeowner’s yearly property tax bill by several hundred dollars. Seniors and people with disabilities may qualify for even larger exemptions, up to $120,000. Filing an application with the Bell County Appraisal District is key to receiving these savings.

This November, Texans will vote on a plan that could lower property taxes even more. If it passes, the main homestead exemption would increase to $140,000, and seniors or people with disabilities could get up to $60,000 in extra breaks. These changes would apply to 2025 taxes, potentially reducing the taxable value of a typical Killeen home and cutting the overall property tax bill by a few hundred dollars. Given Texas’ history of passing similar amendments, this property tax rate relief is likely.

Property taxes are rising across western Bell County, but homeowners still have ways to ease the impact. You can lower future bills by applying for available tax exemptions and staying informed about the statewide vote coming this November. Understanding how property taxes affect your home’s value will help you plan ahead, avoid surprises, and keep your budget on track.