Is Kilgore Safe, Pros and cons of living in Kilgore

Is it Safe to Live in Kilgore?

Kilgore, Texas, presents a mixed picture regarding safety, with crime rates that warrant attention. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Kilgore is approximately 1 in 39 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Based on FBI crime data, Kilgore is not among the safest communities in the United States when compared to all other cities, regardless of size (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).

When compared to other communities of similar population size, Kilgore’s combined violent and property crime rate is notably higher than the average (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Property crime is a significant contributor to the overall crime rate, with a chance of becoming a victim of property crime in Kilgore being 1 in 45 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Violent crime also occurs at a rate higher than in most communities of all population sizes in America, with the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime being 1 in 289 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).

Cost of Living and Housing

Kilgore offers a cost of living that is generally considered affordable, especially when compared to national averages. The overall cost of living in Kilgore is approximately 10% lower than the U.S. national average (as reported by Salary.com). This affordability is significantly driven by housing costs, which are substantially lower than the national average.

Housing expenses in Kilgore are about 31% lower than the national average (as reported by Payscale). The median home value in Kilgore is around $211,755 (as reported by Zillow). However, other sources indicate a median home price of $165,000 (as reported by Kilgore Area Chamber of Commerce) or $139,550 (as reported by BestNeighborhood.org). The median rent in Kilgore is approximately $1,200 per month (as reported by Zillow), though other sources cite $1,387 per month (as reported by realtor.com®).

Job Market and Economy

The job market in Kilgore is supported by a diverse range of industries, contributing to its economic stability. Major employers in Kilgore include entities like Martin Midstream LLC, Orgill, Inc., Kilgore College, and the City of Kilgore (as reported by Kilgore EDC). Other significant employers span sectors such as education, government, and manufacturing, with companies like Camfil, USA and Republic Services also playing a role (as reported by Kilgore EDC).

The average salary in Kilgore, TX, is around $39,000 per year, or approximately $18.75 per hour (as reported by Zippia). More recent data indicates the average annual salary is around $39,993 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The median household income in Kilgore was reported as $66,295 in 2024 (as reported by US Census Bureau). However, some sources indicate a median household income of $56,870 (as reported by Kilgore Area Chamber of Commerce) or $60,355 (as reported by Livability.com). The unemployment rate for Texas is generally low, with recent figures showing it around 4.3% (as reported by Texas LMI).

Climate and Environment

Kilgore experiences a climate typical of East Texas, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. The city averages around 215 sunny days per year (as reported by Kilgore Area Chamber of Commerce). Summer high temperatures in July typically reach around 95 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter lows in January can drop to about 36 degrees Fahrenheit (as reported by Kilgore Area Chamber of Commerce).

The area receives a significant amount of rainfall, with an average of 46 inches per year (as reported by Kilgore Area Chamber of Commerce). Snowfall is minimal, averaging about 1 inch annually (as reported by Kilgore Area Chamber of Commerce). The average annual rainfall is listed as 48 inches (as reported by Livability.com), and another source notes an average of 46 inches of rain per year (as reported by Kilgore Area Chamber of Commerce).

Education and Schools

Kilgore is served by the Kilgore Independent School District, which offers education from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The district has received an overall “C+” grade on Niche, with a rating of 3.73 out of 5 stars (as reported by Niche). According to state test scores, a significant portion of students demonstrate proficiency, with 36% proficient in math and 48% proficient in reading (as reported by Niche).

Within the district, schools like Parkway Elementary, Birch Elementary, and Sabine Elementary have received “B+” overall Niche grades (as reported by Niche). Kilgore High School, serving grades 9-12, has a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1, and state test scores indicate 31% of students are proficient in math and 45% in reading (as reported by Niche). The district is also noted for its diversity, ranking among the most diverse school districts in Texas (as reported by Niche).

Demographics and Lifestyle

Kilgore is a city with a diverse population, reflecting a blend of ethnic and age groups. As of the most recent US Census data, the population is approximately 13,470, with White individuals forming the largest racial/ethnic group at 49.5%, followed by Hispanic (26.9%) and Black (14%) residents (as reported by US Census Bureau). Other sources indicate slightly different demographic breakdowns, with one noting 49.5% White, 26.9% Hispanic, 14.0% Black, and 8.4% Multiracial (as reported by US Census Bureau).

The median age in Kilgore is around 35.3 years (as reported by US Census Bureau). The city offers a sparse suburban feel, often described as a desirable place for families (as reported by Kilgore Area Chamber of Commerce). The majority of residents commute by driving alone, with an average commute time of about 22.6 minutes (as reported by Kilgore Area Chamber of Commerce).

Pros and Cons of Living in Kilgore

Kilgore offers several advantages, including a lower cost of living compared to the national average, particularly in housing (as reported by Salary.com, Payscale). The city also boasts a stable job market with a variety of major employers across different sectors (as reported by Kilgore EDC). Residents can enjoy a climate with ample sunny days and distinct seasons, though summers can be hot (as reported by Kilgore Area Chamber of Commerce).

However, potential residents should be aware of the higher-than-average crime rates, especially property crimes, when compared to both national and state averages (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). While schools are rated as average, some reviews suggest a greater focus on extracurricular activities over academics in recent years (as reported by Niche). The median household income, while respectable, may be a concern for some, and the cost of living, while lower than the national average, is higher than the Texas state average (as reported by Salary.com, US Census Bureau).