October 3, 2024
10 Essential Things to Know Before Moving to Fort Worth, TX
Thinking about relocating and moving to Fort Worth, Texas? You’re in the right place! Fort Worth offers a vibrant lifestyle, a growing job market, and affordable housing. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or a retiree, this city has something for everyone. Let’s explore the top 11 things you should know before making the move.
1. Fort Worth is NOT Dallas
While Fort Worth and Dallas are part of the DFW metroplex, they are very different. Fort Worth is known for its laid-back, western culture and lower cost of living, especially in terms of housing and transportation. Unlike Dallas, which often experiences heavy traffic, Fort Worth offers a more relaxed atmosphere with its unique charm and slower pace.
2. Population Growth
Fort Worth is the 5th largest city in Texas and continues to expand rapidly. With major businesses relocating to Texas, the city is seeing steady growth. North Fort Worth is especially booming with new residential and commercial developments, offering great opportunities for homebuyers looking for both new construction and more established neighborhoods.
3. Cost of Living
One of the biggest benefits of living in Fort Worth is the affordable cost of living. Housing prices are 21% lower than the national average, and Texas’s lack of state income tax puts more money back into residents’ pockets. Fuel, groceries, and health care also tend to be more affordable compared to other U.S. cities.
4. Job Market & Opportunities
Fort Worth’s economy is thriving, with companies like American Airlines, BNSF Railway, and GE offering plenty of job opportunities. Job growth remains strong, attracting new residents to the city. Fort Worth’s relatively low living costs and no state income tax make it an attractive option for job seekers.
5. Recreation & Outdoor Activities
Fort Worth is full of outdoor recreational options, from the Trinity Trails along the Trinity River to the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge. Residents can also enjoy year-round activities at places like Trinity Park, which offers hiking, biking, and playgrounds. For summer fun, the NRH2O Waterpark and the historic Fort Worth Stockyards offer entertainment for all ages.
6. Commuting, Traffic & Public Transportation
Getting around Fort Worth is easy thanks to Trinity Metro and TexRail, which connects Fort Worth to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. While there’s some traffic during rush hour, it’s far less congested compared to Dallas. The city’s spoke-hub road design helps ease traffic flow for commuters.
7. Art & Culture
Fort Worth offers a vibrant arts scene with museums like the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth and venues like Bass Performance Hall. Whether you enjoy live music, ballet, or modern art, Fort Worth’s cultural offerings make it a dynamic city with plenty to explore.
8. Education
Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) serves over 84,000 students and offers programs in STEM and the fine arts. Private schools are also available, with many families choosing from a variety of educational options. For higher education, institutions like Texas Christian University (TCU) and Texas Wesleyan offer advanced learning opportunities.
9. Sports
Fort Worth residents have access to professional sports teams in the DFW area, including the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers. Local college teams, like TCU’s Horned Frogs, add to the city’s sports scene, making it easy for sports enthusiasts to find a game to enjoy year-round.
10. Crime Rate
Fort Worth is considered one of the safer cities in the U.S. Property crime and violent crime rates are lower than the national average. The northwest part of the city is particularly known for its safety, attracting families and retirees looking for a secure place to call home.
11. Best Neighborhoods in Fort Worth
Fort Worth has a diverse range of neighborhoods to fit every lifestyle. Downtown Fort Worth is perfect for those seeking an urban environment, while Southlake offers top-rated schools and a family-friendly atmosphere. Keller is another popular neighborhood, known for its large yards and strong community feel.
Wrapping Up: Moving to Fort Worth, TX
Fort Worth is a fantastic place to live with its affordable cost of living, growing job market, and diverse recreational activities. Whether you’re looking for a big-city vibe or a quieter suburban life, Fort Worth has the perfect neighborhood for you. If you’re planning to move to Fort Worth, be sure to contact us for real estate guidance and additional information. We are always here to help.