F ort Worth, Texas calls itself The City Where the West Begins. And this city certainly has the cowboy culture to back up that claim. But Fort Worth is simultaneously a modern city, with a vibrant downtown and major cultural attractions. Magazines such as Newsweek, Fortune and Money consistently name Fort Worth to the top of their lists of cities to work, live and do business.

Fort Worth supports a population of approximately 540,000 residents, whose average age is 31 years old. The population here continues to grow at a consistent rate, gaining two to three percent new growth each year. This is a growth rate that reflects the desirability of the area, yet is a manageable enough pace to not put undue stress on infrastructure. The median household income in Fort Worth is around $40,000 per year. And in a city this size, there are housing options to suit nearly every taste and budget. Real estate here has appreciated at a steady level, making homes a great investment for their owners.

The main employment sectors in the area are manufacturing and the retail trade. A significant portion of the population is employed in the sectors of finance, insurance, professional services, technology and the sciences. Fort Worth has a multi-layered economy, reflected in the companies that choose to have their home base here. Major corporations such as Lockheed Martin, American Airlines, Bell Helicopter Textron, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, RadioShack, and Pier 1 Imports all have a major presence in the Fort Worth area.

Fort Worth also has several one of a kind attractions within its borders. Here you will find the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame, the only museum of its kind in the world. This site honors the Women of the West "who have displayed extraordinary courage and pioneer spirit in their trailblazing efforts." In this 33,000 square foot location, there are interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a theater dedicated to preserving the memories of these pioneering women.

The Stockyards is known as one of the best entertainment sites in the city. This National Historic District is home to a wealth of nightlife and dining, lodging and entertainment options. Many of Fort Worth's annual festivals are held in this former meatpacking district. The Stockyards Championship Rodeo is here, as well as the Cowtown Opry and White Elephant Saloon. There are a wealth of shopping options, from traditional western gear to modern art galleries. And for dining, you can choose from a classic Texas steak to contemporary bistro food, classic barbecue, or italian.

Located within the Stockyards area is another unique destination, Billy Bob's Texas. Operating continuously for over twenty years, Billy Bob's is proof that everything really is bigger in Texas! Covering a whopping seven acres, Billy Bob's is the world's largest honky-tonk. It has its own indoor rodeo, an impressive 25 bars, arcade games, restaurants, and of course, plenty of space for the dance floors. It features live music every night of the week, and offers special concerts with some of the top names is country music.

In the heart of downtown, you will find Sundance Square. This twenty-block village is an entertainment and shopping haven. This element of the downtown area caused Texas Monthly Magazine to name Fort Worth "The Hottest Downtown in Texas". This beautifully manicured area has kept its red brick streets and early 20th Century architecture, filling the area with nightclubs, restaurants, boutiques and galleries. Much of the area is mixed-use, combining retail and residential spaces. This not only lends to the vibrancy of the area, but creates a very pedestrian community. This combination has garnered national acclaim, and Sundance Square is widely regarded as a model for urban redevelopment.

In the unlikely event that the shoppers in your family aren't satisfied with the offerings within Sundance Square, they will love exploring Camp Bowie Boulevard. Just a few minutes west of downtown, this historic district offers the absolute finest array of upscale boutiques. From haute couture designers to furriers and fine jewels, Camp Bowie Boulevard keeps shoppers intrigued with over thirty blocks of shopping.

Fort Worth is a modern city by any standards. It strives to please and delight the diverse interests of its residents and visitors alike. If you are thinking of moving, consider Fort Worth, Texas, and request our free relocation packet today!