Hillsboro is a North Central Texas city of about 9,145 residents , situated directly on Interstate 35 between the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex and Waco . It is the seat of Hill County and sits at the pivotal I-35 East/West split, giving it outsized commercial reach despite its modest population. Hillsboro draws
shoppers from a retail trade area of 46,804 people, and captures business from the steady flow of I-35 travelers moving between major cities . In character, the community blends small-town charm – exemplified by its historic courthouse square and friendly neighborhoods – with the energy of an active highway service center. This unique location and character make Hillsboro both a welcoming hometown and a regional marketplace, setting the stage for robust retail and hospitality activity.

Hillsboro’s retail scene is anchored by a mix of national brands and local favorites. A Walmart Supercenter and other big-name outlets (like Tractor Supply) operate near the interstate corridor, while the historic downtown offers one-of-a-kind boutiques and longtime staples like Brookshire’s Grocery, serving locals from its South Waco Street location . The city was long known for the Outlets at Hillsboro, a major shopping center on I-35; today, that 36-year-old outlet mall is being reborn through a $75 million redevelopment by Glaser Retail Partners that will infuse 200,000 sq. ft. of new retail and restaurant space (along with 230,000 sq. ft. of logistics space) into the market . Plans suggest a potential big-box anchor (such as a home improvement or large grocery store) for this project , underscoring Hillsboro’s attractiveness for major retailers. Market data backs this momentum: consumer retail demand in the Hillsboro trade area is projected to grow by about $71.6 million from 2025 to 2030. In short, Hillsboro’s retail environment is thriving and expanding, with significant gaps to fill and opportunity for new merchants to step in and succeed.

The restaurant and food service sector in Hillsboro is experiencing notable growth, signaling room for new dining establishments. Trade area spending at food and drinking places is projected to expand from roughly $64.3 million in 2025 to $72.7 million by 2030, an increase of about $8.4 million in five years. This rising consumer expenditure indicates unmet demand and expansion potential for eateries. In particular, full-service restaurants are poised for growth – local spending on sit-down dining is expected to increase by around $4.0 million by 2030. Similarly, demand for quick-service and specialty food places is climbing steadily. The overall upward trend in food-service dollars suggests that Hillsboro’s market could readily absorb new restaurants, cafés, and nightlife options. Investors in dining can anticipate a growing customer base and room to capture sales that may currently be leaking to larger nearby markets.

Hillsboro provides a variety of attractions and amenities to engage visitors – and encourage them to stay awhile. The city’s rich history is on display: the iconic Hill County Courthouse presides over downtown, and landmarks like the restored Texas Theatre and the Hill County Cell Block Museum offer cultural charm and entertainment in the historic district. Additionally one can find live music, pool tables, dancing, as well as city parks, golf courses, and a calendar full of family friendly festivals in Hillsboro.

As highway volumes and tourism in the region increase, Hillsboro is well-positioned to capture more overnight stays and travel expenditures. The projected growth in consumer spending on travel needs suggests strong support for new hotels and accommodations, as well as related entertainment venues (such as family attractions or event spaces) that can serve both residents and visitors. In short, the hospitality sector in Hillsboro stands to benefit from the city’s role as a convenient stopover and regional recreation destination in the making.

By the numbers, Hillsboro’s market fundamentals signal a community ready for new investment. The RTA’s population of about 46,800 in 2025 is on track to surpass 50,000 within the next few years, ensuring a growing pool of consumers. Household incomes are healthy, with trade area average household income nearing $89,000 per year – providing solid spending power in the local economy. This affluence and population growth translate directly into retail potential: aggregate consumer demand in the Hillsboro trade area is forecast to reach roughly $563 million in annual retail and dining expenditures by 2025. Such a substantial market expenditure (up more than $71 million since 2020) underlines the commercial readiness of the region. For prospective retailers, restaurateurs, developers, and hotel operators, Hillsboro offers a compelling combination of a large and growing customer base, rising spending trends, and an inviting community atmosphere – a foundation upon which new RREH ventures can thrive.