5 Things To Know Before Moving to Fort Worth, Texas
If you're thinking about moving to Fort Worth, congratulations! There's so much to love about this city and the beautiful and free state of Texas. As new Texas residents, here's what we think is important to know before your move!
1. No state income tax, but higher property taxes
Texas has no state income tax, which saves you quite a chunk of change depending on where you’re coming from. However, the state has to make the money it uses to keep it’s streets immaculately clean and fund their highest ranking school boards from somewhere! This comes from sales tax, which is 8.25%, and property taxes, which are on average 1.81% of your home's value. Property taxes vary by town, so make sure to do some research when selecting your neighbourhood!
2. It gets very, very hot in the summer.
Texas is, in fact, the hottest state in America. In Dallas, highs can reach over 90 degrees in the hot and dry summer, and lows can dip to 37 degrees in the winter. The rest of the year is generally warm. For you this means making sure you have a reliable AC, that you regularly check your car's AC fluid, and that you will have to do some serious planning for summer activities that will keep you cool and avoid the unbearable heat. Secondly, if you have dogs like us (especially bulldogs), that means taking a few extra measures to make sure they don’t overheat or dehydrate.
3. Traffic is bad, but gas is cheap
Unless you are living downtown close to your office, you will need a car to get around here. Luckily, we have some of the lowest gas prices in the country. The transit system can't keep up with the massive and continuously sprawling metroplex that is DFW, and infrastructure is not keeping up with the pace of new residents. This means that traffic in Fort Worth, Dallas, and anywhere between the two can be seriously hectic at peak hours. Also, if you live in the suburbs, you may need to drive 15 minutes just to reach the highway (don’t worry the beautiful scenery makes up for it). Many commutes, even simple ones like going to the grocery store, are between 30 minutes to one hour. DFW also has many toll roads for those who want to trade 75 cents for a slightly quicker commute. Make sure you check how long your usual commutes are going to be from your new house!
4. Cowboy Culture Is A Thing
Fort Worth has a nickname, “CowTown”. While it has historical roots which you can learn about at the exciting Fort Worth Stock Yards Historical District, it also reflects on how lush green fields of grazing cows are just about everywhere in Fort Worth. So if you’d enjoy a little more country western vibe in your life, you will really appreciate living here! In addition, cowboy attire is very popular at busier attractions like the Stock Yards or Billy Bob's, so if you're into cowboy boots, you're also in for a treat.
5. Fort Worth Living is Cheaper than Dallas
A 2021 cost of living analysis states that Fort Worth, overall, is about 1.8% less expensive than living in Dallas. The median Fort Worth home price is $197,700, and the median Dallas price is $214,700, a difference of 7.9%. Healthcare is slightly more expensive in Fort Worth, but food and groceries, nightlife, and activities are all less expensive here in Fort Worth.
MOVING TO TEXAS?
Since you’ll be needing a good sleep after the exciting drive, visit us so we can set you up with an amazing mattress and hear your story. We are giving free delivery on every mattress order for those who visit us from reading our blog posts, it’s our “Thank God We’re in Fort Worth” promo, and it’s for everyone! Just let us know at check out :) If you're settling in outside of Fort Worth, our online store has everything you need for your new bedroom!
Thanks for reading!
Guilherme from Mattress Republic
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