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Hillsboro, Texas

Hillsboro is a city and the county seat of Hill County, Texas. It is strategically located on Interstate 35, positioning it between the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and Waco.

Overview

  • Population: 8,221 (2020 census); 2025 estimate ~8,400–8,506 (U.S. Census Bureau ACS). Growing slowly at ~0.3%–1.1%/yr depending on source.
  • Community Feel: Hillsboro is a rural city with an active and close-knit community. It serves as a trade center for a 30-mile radius.
  • Growth and History: The city has a rich history, with a building boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries driven by the cotton industry. Many historic homes and the Hill County Courthouse still stand from this era.

Key Characteristics

  • Demographics: The population is diverse, with White (45%), Hispanic (40%), and Black (11%) communities. The median age is around 35-37 years.
  • Economy: The median household income is approximately $56,100 (2024 estimate). The city has a low cost of living.
  • Housing: The estimated median home value is approximately $135,000 - $158,000.
  • Education: The city is served by the Hillsboro Independent School District (TEA A-rated, 2025). It is also home to Hill College, a public community college whose Texas Heritage Museum received the IMLS National Medal in February 2026 — the highest honor for museums/libraries in the U.S., and a first for any community college in the nation.

For a detailed list of schools in Hillsboro, see the Hillsboro Schools file.

Economy and Major Employers

For a detailed list of major employers and an overview of the key economic sectors in Hillsboro, see the Hillsboro Employment file.

Detailed Information

For more detailed information on neighborhoods, crime rates, and demographics, see the Hillsboro Details file.

Amenities and Lifestyle

For a detailed list of events in Hillsboro, see the Hillsboro Events file.

  • Location: Its location on I-35 makes it a gateway to Lake Whitney and Lake Aquilla. It is about 34 miles north of Waco.
  • Community Events: Hillsboro hosts numerous events throughout the year, including festivals, markets, and concert series, which cater to both residents and visitors.
  • Historic Downtown: The city features a historic downtown with notable architecture, including the iconic Hill County Courthouse, and is a designated Texas Main Street City.

Food and Dining

For a detailed list of notable restaurants in Hillsboro, see the Hillsboro Restaurants file.

Religious Community

For a detailed list of churches in Hillsboro, see the Hillsboro Churches file.

Sources