The Best Fort Worth Neighborhoods for Every Lifestyle in 2025

Fort Worth’s best neighborhoods include Downtown for high-rise living and Trinity Metro access (Walk Score: 85), Southside for nightlife and local venues (Walk Score: 73), and Arlington Heights for families (top-rated schools and quiet streets). Here’s how to choose based on your rent budget, commute, and lifestyle needs.

We’ve ranked 12 of the best places to live in Fort Worth for 2025 using data on crime, walkability, transit, and amenities. From student-friendly areas near TCU to residential pockets with easier access to parks and schools, there’s a Fort Worth neighborhood for everyone.

What are the most walkable Fort Worth neighborhoods?

Bluebonnet Place

• Best For: Renters who want easy access to TCU, restaurants, and coffee shops that make car-free living doable.
• Walk score: 82
• Transit score: 37
• Bike score: 63
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,800
• Crime Score (Compared to Fort Worth City Average): Average

With a Walk Score of 82 and bike-friendly streets, Bluebonnet Place is ideal for renters who want to live near Texas Christian University without needing a car. The neighborhood offers quick access to coffee shops, bookstores, and restaurants along University Drive, plus campus amenities just a short stroll away.

Two-bedroom apartments average $2,800, placing it at the higher end of Fort Worth rents. Transit access is moderate, and crime rates hover around the city average. Still, for students, professors, or anyone craving a college-town feel with mature trees and walkable streets, Bluebonnet Place delivers lifestyle perks that make daily errands and outings doable without four wheels.

West Beyer

• Best For: Young professionals who want access to growing retail and dining in a more residential area
• Walk score: 72
• Transit score: 34
• Bike score: 49
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $1,320
• Crime Score (Compared to Fort Worth City Average): Below Average

West Beyer hits the sweet spot for young professionals who want walkable access to emerging restaurants, coffee spots, and shopping, without sacrificing a residential vibe. It scores a solid 72 for walkability, and though transit access is limited (Transit Score: 34), most essentials are reachable on foot or bike.

The average two-bedroom rent sits at $1,320, making it an affordable option for those who want peace with access to modern amenities. Crime scores are below the Fort Worth average, adding to the area’s appeal for solo renters or couples. With new retail arriving nearby and bike lanes expanding, West Beyer is one to watch if you’re looking for balance.

Scenic Bluff

• Best For: Affordable rents and walkable access to Riverside trails and parks, only minutes from Downtown
• Walk score: 68
• Transit score: 29
• Bike score: 60
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $1,956
• Crime Score (Compared to Fort Worth City Average) Below Average

Adjacent to the Riverside trails and Trinity River, Scenic Bluff is a great pick for renters who want walkability, green space, and proximity to Downtown, without the downtown price tag. The Walk Score clocks in at 68, but its access to parks, trails, and local taquerias make it feel more connected than the number suggests.

Transit is limited, but biking is a popular option. The average two-bedroom rent is $1,956, and crime rates are slightly lower than the city average, making it a practical choice for renters seeking peace and convenience.

What are the best Fort Worth neighborhoods for families?

Arlington Heights

• Best For: Families seeking charming homes near top schools and city amenities
• Average Two-Bedroom Rent: $1,331
• Crime Grade (Compared to Fort Worth City Average): Above Average
• Top Public Schools: Arlington Heights High School & South High Mount Elementary School
• Map of Arlington Heights

Arlington Heights is a practical choice for families who want nearby schools, walkable streets, and access to Fort Worth's Cultural District. Two-bedroom rents average $1,331, and the crime rate is lower than the city average, making it feel more secure for those with kids.

Arlington Heights High School and South Hi Mount Elementary are located right in the neighborhood, reducing commute time and daily stress. While homes tend to be older, many are well-kept and surrounded by sidewalks, mature trees, and pocket parks. It’s an easy area for walking the dog, pushing a stroller, or heading out for errands without needing to get on the highway.

North Side

• Best For: Budget-minded families seeking charter options and proximity to downtown Fort Worth
• Average Two-Bedroom Rent: $1,581
• Crime Grade (Compared to Fort Worth City Average): Above Average
• Top Public Schools: North Side High School & Castleberry High School
• Map of North Side

Families on a budget looking for more space without leaving Fort Worth often consider North Side. It’s close to downtown and average two-bedroom rents come in at $1,581, making it accessible for renters who want more square footage. The area is also home to North Side High School, and Castleberry High School sits nearby across the river.

Though it's not the most transit-connected neighborhood, daily amenities are within reach by car or bike. The crime score is better than Fort Worth's average, giving it an edge over other similarly priced areas. North Side blends affordability with location, and works well for renters who don’t mind an older housing stock.

Candleridge

• Best For: Larger families looking for space, greenbelt trails, and access to Overton Park Elementary
• Average Two-Bedroom Rent: $1,263
• Crime Grade (Compared to Fort Worth City Average): Average
• Top Public Schools: Southwest High School & Great Hearts Lakeside
• Map of Candleridge

If you’re looking for space, quiet streets, and access to parks, Candleridge makes a strong case. Two-bedroom rents average $1,263, and the area includes long blocks of single-family homes, mature trees, and easy trail access. The crime rate is average, but the low-traffic layout and community familiarity give many residents added peace of mind.

Local schools include Southwest High School, Great Hearts Lakeside, and Overton Park Elementary, offering both public and charter options nearby. It’s a car-dependent area, but parking is easy and yards are larger than most parts of the city. For larger families or renters who prioritize square footage and green space, Candleridge is a solid fit.

What are the best Fort Worth neighborhoods for young adults?

Downtown Fort Worth

• Best For: Renters seeking high-rise apartments, lively bars in Sundance Square, and easy access to Trinity Metro transit.
• Transit Score: 61
• Median Home Purchase Price: $543,500
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,227
• Crime Grade (Compared to Fort Worth City Average): Below Average

Downtown is a go-to for young adults who want city living without a long commute. High-rise apartments, walkable bars, and access to Trinity Metro make it especially practical for those without a car. The 61 Transit Score gives it one of the best public transportation ratings in the city, and rent for a two-bedroom averages $2,227.

While it’s more expensive than most neighborhoods, the crime rate is slightly higher than the Fort Worth average, which is mostly due to density. With that said, regular foot traffic and visible security near Sundance Square are helpful. Whether you're working in finance, hospitality, or remote tech, Downtown lets you stay connected to the action without giving up convenience.

Southside

• Best for: Creatives seeking live music venues, craft cocktails, breweries, and independent restaurants.
• Transit Score: 47
• Median Home Purchase Price: $280,800
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $1,247
• Crime Grade (Compared to Fort Worth City Average): Average

Southside draws in creatives and young professionals looking for live music, locally owned restaurants, and late-night spots that don’t feel overly commercial. Rents are far more affordable than Downtown at $1,247 for a two-bedroom, and the median home price hovers around $280,800, appealing to those thinking about long-term plans.

The 47 Transit Score makes it somewhat accessible without a car, and the crime grade is average, though some blocks feel busier and safer than others, especially near Magnolia Avenue. With tattoo studios, art galleries, and casual venues within walking distance, Southside has the right energy for renters who want affordability, community events, and a social scene.

Cultural District

• Best For: Museum lovers, creatives, and those who want local trail access.
• Transit Score: 42
• Median Home Purchase Price: $656,500
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $1,315
• Crime Grade (Compared to Fort Worth City Average): Below Average

Located just west of Downtown, the Cultural District is ideal for renters who want walkable museums, bike trails, and easy access to West 7th dining and retail. With a Transit Score of 42, getting around without a car is doable, especially for those who stay close to main routes.

The crime score is better than average citywide, and the streets are generally active during the day thanks to foot traffic from the museums and nearby offices. Rent for a two-bedroom sits around $1,315, while home prices average $656,500, higher than most, but reflective of the location and upkeep. It’s a smart pick for renters who want access to culture and quiet without leaving the city grid.

What are the best Fort Worth neighborhoods for students?

TCU-Westcliff

• Best For: Close proximity to campus life with transit access and lively TCU-area bars.
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $1,883
• Proximity to Universities: Adjacent to Texas Christian University, 10-minute drive to Texas Wesleyan University, and 20–25 minutes to University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC).
• Walk Score: 53
• Crime Grade (Compared to Fort Worth City Average): Above Average

If you want to stay close to campus without giving up nightlife or transit access, TCU–Westcliff is a practical pick. You're right next to Texas Christian University, with Texas Wesleyan and UNTHSC a short drive away.

A Walk Score of 53 makes it manageable on foot, especially near the university’s dining and bar scene. Two-bedroom apartments average $1,883, which is midrange for the area, and crime rates are slightly lower than the city average.

Whether you're a student looking for a quick walk to class or a grad student needing a bit more space, TCU–Westcliff offers access to school, groceries, and social life, without the need to live in a dorm.

Fairmount

• Best For: Walkability and access to an array of cafes and venues
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $1,787
• Proximity to Universities: 5 minutes to Texas Wesleyan University, 10 minutes to TCU, and 10–15 minutes to UNTHSC via Forest Park Blvd.
• Walk Score: 67
• Crime Grade (Compared to Fort Worth City Average): Above Average

Fairmount works well for students who want walkable streets, local coffee shops, and venues all in one place. With a Walk Score of 67, you can get around easily without a car. It’s only 10 minutes from TCU and even closer to Texas Wesleyan and UNTHSC, making it great for students at any stage.

Average rent for a two-bedroom runs about $1,787, and the crime score is slightly better than the Fort Worth average, especially on blocks with more foot traffic. Fairmount blends school access with daily livability. Bike to class in the morning, walk to open mic night in the evening, and grab groceries or tacos along the way.

Mistletoe Heights

• Best For: Early-morning runners and weekend cyclists, thanks to trail access.
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,005
• Proximity to Universities: Under 10 minutes to UNTHSC and Texas Wesleyan, and about 10–12 minutes to TCU via Forest Park Blvd or W Rosedale St.
• Walk Score: 44
• Crime Grade (Compared to Fort Worth City Average): Below Average

For students who like their downtime quiet and their weekends outdoors, Mistletoe Heights is hard to beat. It’s less nightlife-heavy than nearby areas, but it's within 10–12 minutes of TCU, UNTHSC, and Texas Wesleyan, and offers access to the Trinity Trails system.

Average two-bedroom rent is $2,005, and the crime score is below the city average, which helps justify the price. A Walk Score of 44 means it’s better suited for biking or driving, but it offers calm streets and green space that students juggling work and school often appreciate. If you prefer an early morning jog over a late-night party, Mistletoe Heights might be your spot.

Find Your Perfect Fort Worth Apartment

Fort Worth has a wide range of neighborhoods, but the right one depends on what you value most. Whether it’s short commutes, nearby trails, or being close to school, there's a part of the city that fits your routine.

• Best for Urban Living: Downtown – walkable, connected by transit, and full of restaurants, bars, and coworking spaces.
• Best for Families: Arlington Heights and Candleridge – near public schools, greenbelts, and low-traffic residential streets.
• Best for Young Adults: Southside – known for live music, breweries, and affordable rent.
• Best for Students: TCU–Westcliff and Fairmount – close to multiple campuses, with bikeable access and local hangouts.
• Most Walkable: Bluebonnet Place and Cultural District – both neighborhoods let you skip the car and stay connected.

Ready to find your match? Take Apartment List’s quiz and get personalized results in 90 seconds.

Best Fort Worth Neighborhood FAQs

What is the safest neighborhood in Fort Worth?

Areas like Far Northwest, Mira Vista, and Arlington Heights report significantly lower crime rates than the city average, especially for property and violent offenses.

What are the most walkable areas in Fort Worth?

Bluebonnet Place, the Cultural District, and parts of Downtown rank highest for walkability, with coffee shops, restaurants, and errands doable without a car.

Where do creatives live in Fort Worth?

Many creatives settle in Southside, Fairmount, and Near Southside, where you'll find local venues, art galleries, casual bars, and an active event calendar.

Is Fort Worth affordable for renters?

Compared to other major metros, yes. Neighborhoods like Wedgwood, Candleridge, and parts of the North Side offer two-bedroom rents well below national averages.

Should I live in the city or a Fort Worth suburb?

City neighborhoods offer shorter commutes and walkability, while suburbs provide more space, quieter streets, and access to larger schools. Your day-to-day routine should drive the choice.

What Fort Worth neighborhoods have the best public transit access?

Downtown Fort Worth ranks highest, with several Trinity Metro routes and TEXRail access. Southside and Cultural District also offer limited bus and Dash circulator service.

What is the average rent in Fort Worth in 2025?

As of mid-2025, the average rent is $1,399 for a one-bedroom and $1,785 for a two-bedroom, according to Apartment List data.

How does Fort Worth’s cost of living compare to other cities?

Fort Worth remains more affordable than Austin or Dallas, especially for renters. Housing, groceries, and utilities tend to cost less while still offering city access.

Is Fort Worth a good city for remote workers?

Yes. Areas like Downtown, West 7th, and Southside feature coworking spaces, fast internet, and flexible housing—ideal for those working from home or hybrid setups.

How’s the traffic in Fort Worth?

Traffic is manageable compared to larger Texas cities, though peak times around I-30, I-35W, and Loop 820 can be slow. Living closer to downtown or along TEXRail lines helps reduce delays.

What are the quietest neighborhoods in Fort Worth?

Candleridge, Mira Vista, and Far Southwest are known for calm streets, larger lots, and fewer noise complaints, especially in the evenings.

Where do young professionals live in Fort Worth?

Downtown, Southside, and TCU–Westcliff are popular with young renters looking for social spots, walkability, and shorter drives to major employers.

Which part of Fort Worth is best overall?

It depends on what you need. Downtown works well for walkability, Arlington Heights is a solid pick for families, and Southside appeals to creatives and students alike.