Keller, like many cities in the west, began as a village to serve the railroad lines. The Texas and Pacific Railroad between Fort Worth and Texarkana was completed in April 1881, and the first train ran on this track on May 9, 1881. Keller was established that same year, named after John C. Keller, a foreman on the railroad. The railroad brought goods needed in the surrounding farming community, and the town prospered as a trade center with many businesses. Many buildings from the early 1900s still stand today in Old Town Keller.

That historic, small town flavor has stayed with Keller into its second century. While some railroad towns did not continue to prosper in the late 20th century, Keller has continued to grow and flourish. Well over 30,000 people now make their home in Keller, and city planners estimate a population in 2020 of nearly 40,000. Despite rapid and continued growth, which can result in problems for many cities, Keller was named one of the best-managed small cities in America in 2003.

Keller is located 18 miles north of Forth Worth and 35 miles northwest of Dallas, in Northeast Tarrant County. The population is young—about 60% of residents are between 20 and 60 years old. This is good news for young families, who will have many others of similar ages as neighbors. Median household income in 2000 was $86,232. Median house values in 2000 were $173,000.

With such a young population, it is no surprise that the largest employer in the city is the Keller Independent School District. Other major employers include Corning Cable Systems, the City of Keller, and large chain stores such as Lowe's, Home Depot, Kohl's, and Kroger's.

New developments in the city are a source of pride for residents, as well as providing recreation and shopping. Keller Town Center is set in a park-like area with open green spaces, lakes, walking paths, and trails. The area is mixed-use retail, office, and residential, with pedestrian-friendly trails connecting it all. An expansive park and recreation system was crowned in June 2004 with the opening of The Keller Pointe, a recreation and aquatic facility, the pride of the fore thinking mayor and city council.