Did you know that, according to a 2021 survey, Texas was ranked as the “absolute best” place to establish corporate headquarters? This is thanks to the state’s regulatory climate, tax policy (no state income tax!), and talent availability.
That’s not all the state has to offer potential residents, though. Austin and the Dallas-Fort Worth area offer rich culture and an abundance of attractions. Simply put, moving to Fort Worth offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in the rodeo atmosphere or discovering centuries-old art masterpieces at the Modern Art Museum, Fort Worth has it all. However, in this guide, we’ll discuss five reasons why it’s the perfect time to make your move to Fort Worth.
A Brief History of Fort Worth
Before you start planning a move to Fort Worth, it helps to know just a bit about this northeastern Texas city. After all, the history of Fort Worth is as rich and as diverse as the people who populate its streets today.
Founded in 1849 by General Edward H. Tarrant, the city was initially occupied by a wild mix of cowboys, outlaws, gamblers, soldiers, and Native Americans. Towering concrete skyscrapers now stand in place of Fort Worth’s early rodeo stands and saloons, but much of the history and spirit remains thanks to creative adaptive reuse projects throughout the city which celebrate its history.
Eventually, railroads arrived and transformed Fort Worth into a key economic center with well-developed businesses including lumber yards and stockyards. Whether you take a stroll down Historic Exchange Avenue or visit Sundance Square, it’s hard to deny that Fort Worth is steeped in history.
The city hasn’t stopped progressing since and embodies that casual Texas lifestyle so many new residents look for when moving to the Lone Star State.
Is Fort Worth a Good Place to Live?
Yes, Fort Worth is a good place to live for most people. Housing costs less than the national average, the job market is strong, and Texas charges no state income tax. You also get museums, the Stockyards, parks, and easy access to the rest of the DFW area. The main trade-offs are hot summers and growing traffic, which we cover further down. For most movers, the pros clearly outweigh the cons.
Here are five reasons people choose Fort Worth.
Reasons to Move to Fort Worth, Texas
If the history of Fort Worth alone isn’t enough to convince you of the idea of living in Texas then we’ve some news for you. There are endless reasons to move to Fort Worth, Texas. Here are just a few of them.
1. Great Education
Making the move to Fort Worth, Texas is worth considering for families looking for a school district that best meets their needs. You’ll find many options available to meet individual needs, from the top-ranked Carroll Independent School District nearby to the iconic School for the Talented and Gifted in Dallas.
Not only are some of the best elementary, middle, and high schools in Texas located in the Fort Worth area, but it’s also a hub for higher learning. A 15-minute drive will place you at the doorsteps of the University of Texas in Arlington, but right at home in Fort Worth, you’ll find the Texas Christian University, Texas Wesleyan University, and others.
2. Friendly People
Texas consistently ranks as one of the friendliest states in the country. However, moving to Fort Worth is more than just moving to a city in Texas. It’s moving to a close-knit community that’s full of friendly faces.
From sharing the aisles of your local grocery store with folks who are always eager to say hello, to having the chance to immerse yourself in the local community, moving to Fort Worth offers all these things and more! So if you’re looking for somewhere that feels like home as soon as you arrive, moving to Fort Worth is your best bet.
3. Low Cost of Living
Housing in Fort Worth is 16% cheaper than the average cost of housing in the rest of the country. Likewise, the overall cost of living in this North Texas city is 4% cheaper than the national average.
With lower costs for food and housing than the national average, living in Fort Worth won’t leave your wallet stretched thin. These lower costs of living, coupled with the rich culture, tasty cuisine, and array of entertainment, will make it seem like you’ve struck gold (because you likely have; Fort Worth is great).
4. Employment Opportunities
With its booming economy and many industries such as bioscience, health care, and tourism, the range of employment options in Fort Worth is vast.
Not only that, but Fort Worth sits in the middle of the entire DFW Metroplex, which ranks among the top metro areas for job seekers. Several large companies are headquartered right in Fort Worth and employ thousands of people. These include American Airlines, Lockheed Martin, Bell, and BNSF Railway.
5. Cultural Activities
In Fort Worth, you’ll find cultural activities around every corner. The Stockyards are a classic spot for some regular rodeo competitions and opportunities to explore the American West. The renowned Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is also nearby.
All in all, whether you’re enjoying outdoor activities such as an evening stroll in Trinity Park or taking in a show at Bass Performance Hall, there are plenty of reasons why living in Fort Worth is a great idea for people of all ages.
Things to Consider Before Moving to Fort Worth
No city is perfect, and it helps to know the trade-offs before you move. Here are the most common ones locals mention.
- Summer heat. July and August often hit 100°F or higher. Expect high air conditioning bills for a few months each year.
- Traffic and growth. Hundreds of people move to the area every day, and the roads are busy. Highways like I-35W and I-820 can slow down at rush hour.
- Limited public transit. Fort Worth is car-dependent. The TEXRail and Trinity Railway Express help, but most people drive.
- Property taxes. Texas has no state income tax, but property taxes run higher than in many states. Factor that into your budget.
Safety also varies a lot by area, so the neighborhood you choose matters. Our guide to the best neighborhoods in Fort Worth can help you pick the right fit.
Fort Worth Moving FAQs
Is Fort Worth a good place to live?
Yes. It offers lower housing costs than the national average, a strong job market, no state income tax, and plenty of culture. Hot summers and traffic are the main downsides.
Is Fort Worth cheaper than Dallas?
In general, yes. Fort Worth housing tends to cost less than comparable homes in Dallas, which is one reason many people choose the west side of the metroplex.
What is the weather like in Fort Worth?
Fort Worth has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot, with July highs near or above 100°F. Winters are mild with a few cold, windy days.
How many people move to Fort Worth?
Fort Worth is one of the fastest-growing large cities in the country, with hundreds of new residents arriving in the area each day.
Is Fort Worth safe?
Safety depends on the neighborhood. Many family-friendly areas are well below the city-wide crime average, so research the specific area before you buy or rent.
How to Plan for Moving to Fort Worth
Planning a move to Fort Worth, Texas can be an exciting adventure and the best way to start is by identifying moving services that will make the transition easier than ever. Whether you’re moving your entire household or just need help packing up belongings, there are local moving companies who are here to assist and make sure your move goes as smoothly as possible.
After you have hired movers in Texas, create a checklist of all the most important items for your household move. This includes turning off utilities at your old residence, moving all furniture safely, and having everything packed and ready when it’s time.
Get a Free Moving Estimate From a Fort Worth Moving Company
Interested in working with a Fort Worth moving company to help you settle into your new home here? We’ve got you covered. At Olde World Movers, we’ve been serving residents in the DFW area and beyond since 1988. Now, we’re ready to help make the transition to becoming a Fort Worth resident as seamless as possible.
Start the process of moving to Fort Worth today by getting a free moving estimate.
