When considering a move to Fort Worth with a family, one of the biggest questions is often, “Where should we live?” In this article, we’ll explore the top five cities in the Fort Worth area for raising a family, based on a recent ranking by niche.com. We’ll cover essential factors such as crime rates, schools, housing, and amenities in each city.
1. Westlake, Texas
Overview:
Westlake, with a small population of around 1,840, is known for its affluence and exclusivity. Despite its size, the city boasts a high median household income of $250,000. It was even named the most affluent community in the nation by Forbes in 2011.
Location and Commuting:
Situated just northeast of Fort Worth and near highways 114 and 121, Westlake is about 10 minutes from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. The city is conveniently located for those commuting to downtown Fort Worth or Dallas, with drive times of approximately 31 and 35 minutes, respectively.
Education:
Westlake students attend Carroll Independent School District (ISD), which holds an impressive accountability rating of 98 out of 100 from the Texas Education Agency. Westlake also operates a unique public charter school, Westlake Academy, which serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Housing:
Housing in Westlake is on the high end, with a median home price of $3.7 million. The city offers a variety of home styles, including modern contemporary, Tuscan villas, and traditional Texas designs. Notable neighborhoods include Vaquero, a luxury golf community, and Entrada, which features a quaint European-inspired setting.
2. Keller, Texas
Overview:
With a population of about 45,000, Keller offers a suburban feel with the convenience of nearby major highways. The city has a median household income of $159,000 and is known for its family-friendly amenities.
Location and Commuting:
Keller is adjacent to Southlake and has easy access to Interstate 35W and several highways, making it accessible from various parts of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. It’s around 20 minutes from both downtown Fort Worth and DFW Airport.
Education:
Keller ISD serves the city’s students and has a solid rating of 88 from the Texas Education Agency. The district comprises 42 schools with around 34,000 students enrolled.
Housing:
The median home price in Keller is $731,000, offering a range of options suitable for families. Crime rates are low, with Keller earning a safety rating of A from niche.com, further adding to its family appeal.
3. Trophy Club, Texas
Overview:
Trophy Club, with a population of 13,251, is known for its suburban charm and strong community spirit. The median household income here is $183,100.
Location and Commuting:
Located about 15 minutes from DFW Airport, Trophy Club is a great option for families needing easy airport access. Commuting to Fort Worth and Dallas takes around 35 and 40 minutes, respectively.
Education:
Trophy Club falls under Northwest ISD, which has an overall rating of 89. The district serves over 27,000 students in 32 schools, offering quality education and a strong support network for families.
Housing:
Median home prices in Trophy Club are approximately $812,500. The city has a safety rating of B+, making it a safe and desirable place to raise a family.
4. Southlake, Texas
Overview:
Southlake is a vibrant community of 31,000 people with a high median household income of $250,000. Known for its excellent schools and affluent lifestyle, Southlake is a top choice for families looking for a balance of luxury and convenience.
Location and Commuting:
Southlake is adjacent to Westlake and accessible via Highway 114. It’s about a 10-minute drive to DFW Airport and a 35-minute commute to downtown Dallas or Fort Worth.
Education:
Southlake students also attend Carroll ISD, with the same high rating as Westlake. This district serves approximately 8,382 students across 11 schools.
Housing:
With a median home price of $1.2 million, Southlake offers various upscale housing options. The city has a crime and safety rating of B, adding to its family-friendly reputation.
5. Colleyville, Texas
Overview:
Colleyville has a small-town feel with a population of around 25,000. It boasts a median household income of $196,000 and has experienced moderate growth over the years, making it a stable and attractive choice for families.
Location and Commuting:
Situated northeast of Fort Worth, Colleyville is well-connected with highways 114 and 121, making it easy to get to both downtown Fort Worth and Dallas in about 30 minutes. The city is also close to DFW Airport, with a drive time of about 15 minutes.
Education:
Students in Colleyville attend Grapevine-Colleyville ISD, which has a solid rating of 93 from the Texas Education Agency. The district serves around 13,000 students in 21 schools.
Housing:
The median home price in Colleyville is $1.2 million, with various family-friendly neighborhoods to choose from. The city holds a safety rating of B+, ensuring a secure environment for families.
These five cities offer diverse options for families considering a move to the Fort Worth area. From the affluent neighborhoods of Westlake to the charming suburban feel of Colleyville, each city brings its own unique appeal. If you have questions about relocating to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, feel free to reach out.