10 Things You Need to Know About the ‘Key City’ in West Texas

Why Is Abilene, Texas Called the Key City? Here's What You Need to Know

With more people moving to Abilene from out of state, I’ve been getting some wild questions. But to me, they’re only “weird” because I already know and love this place. I love to live in Abilene, and I live to love in Abilene. In my book, it’s the most exciting city in Texas.

So, let’s answer some of the most common questions folks ask when they first move to West Texas or consider relocating to the Key City.

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What Does the Name “Abilene” Mean?

The name comes from the Bible, referring to a region meaning “grass” in Hebrew. Our Abilene was named after Abilene, Kansas.
Source: AbileneVisitorsHistory.com

Why Is It Called “The Big Country”?

Abilene became a hub for business, medical care, and transportation in a 19-county region. During the 1930s and ’40s, the term “The Big Country” stuck, and now it’s sometimes called the “Texas Midwest.”
Source: Abilene, Texas Wikipedia

Why the Nickname “The Key City”?

Thanks to its strategic location and regional importance, Abilene was labeled the “Key City.” It's the gateway to success in this part of Texas, with Dyess Air Force Base as the largest employer.
Source: AbileneHistory.com

Does a River Run Through It?

Abilene sits in the Brazos River Basin. Lake Abilene is located on Elm Creek, which flows into the Clear Fork of the Brazos River.
Source: Texas Water Development Board.com

Is Abilene a Good Place to Live?

Absolutely. Abilene offers a wide-open, suburban feel with a strong sense of community. Most residents own their homes, and it’s full of parks and family-friendly charm.
Source: Niche.com

What’s the Air Quality Like?

Blue skies, clean air, stunning sunsets, and a resilient economy. That’s Abilene. The city is growing steadily with help from Dyess AFB and national businesses setting up shop.
Source: Niche.com

How’s the Weather in Abilene?

Expect hot summers with temps ranging from 95–101°F, and short, windy winters. Locals like to say, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes—it’ll change.”
Source: WeatherSource.com

Does It Snow in Abilene?

Yes, kind of. Snow falls once or twice a year, totaling 1–3 inches max. But when it does, the whole city hits pause. Recent “snowpocalypses” in 2021 and 2022 were rare exceptions.
Source: WeatherSource.com

Why Move to Abilene?

Abilenians enjoy rich traditions like the Western Heritage Classic, the West Texas Fair & Rodeo, and neighborhood parades. Add in hunting, fishing, live music, museums, and a low cost of living, and it’s easy to see why people move here.
Source: Abilene Chamber

Is Abilene Good for Retirement?

Yes, and Forbes agrees. The magazine named Abilene one of the top 25 places to retire thanks to our economy, climate, and community spirit.
Source: Forbes Magazine

My Favorite Thing to Say About Abilene

As I always say: “I love to live in Abilene, and I live to love in Abilene.” Want to know why? Just read those ten answers again.

Abilene is the most exciting city in Texas, I love you, A-Town.