Fort Worth Surpasses Austin in Texas Population Growth

News Summary

Fort Worth has officially become the fourth-largest city in Texas, surpassing Austin with a population of 989,878 as of January 2024. This marks a significant 7.7% increase since 2020, while Austin’s growth has slowed to just 2.6%. Factors contributing to Fort Worth’s rise include affordable living and robust job opportunities. With a potential to exceed 1 million residents by the decade’s end, Fort Worth is positioned for exciting growth amidst challenges in Austin, which has seen a decline in its charm and rising housing costs.

Fort Worth Takes the Lead in Texas Population Race!

Hey, Texas! Have you heard the latest buzz? Fort Worth is now *officially* the fourth-largest city in the Lone Star State, surpassing none other than Austin! According to the Texas Demographic Center’s 2023 Population Estimates Report, the *dynamic* city of Fort Worth has a growing population of 989,878 as of January 1, 2024. That’s a whopping 7.7% increase since the last Census in 2020. Not too shabby, right?

Austin’s Got Some Competition!

To put it into perspective, Austin is now trailing just behind with a population of 986,928. Despite its growth of 2.6% during the same period, it’s evident that Fort Worth is setting the pace. So, what’s behind the surge, you ask? Well, it seems like Fort Worth is winning hearts with its affordable living, thriving job market, and the fact that you won’t spend half your life stuck in traffic like in some other major Texas cities.

Texas City Rankings

As it stands, Houston still holds the crown as the largest city in Texas, boasting a population of 2,318,657, which saw a slight increase of 0.6% since 2020. Following Houston, San Antonio comes in as the second-largest city, ringing in at 1,496,876 residents with a growth rate of 4.3%. Dallas isn’t lagging too far behind, ranking as the third-largest city with 1,308,404 people, but its growth is minimal at just 0.3%.

The Rise of Fort Worth

What’s truly remarkable is that Fort Worth didn’t just grow a little; it added more new residents than any other major U.S. city between July 2021 and July 2022, with an impressive increase of **19,000 residents** during that year! With projections showing Fort Worth could exceed *1 million residents by the end of the decade*, the city is not only booming but also preparing for some serious marketing and branding opportunities.

Austin Faces Challenges

Meanwhile, what’s happening in Austin? Once the crown jewel of Texas cities, Austin has recently faced challenges that have diminished its earlier appeal. Residents have been grappling with escalating housing prices, more crowded streets, and overall, a decline in its charm. According to recent moving trends reports, Austin is now ranked No. 5 among U.S. cities with the highest number of move-outs in 2024. Ouch!

Suburban Success

But don’t count Austin out just yet! While the city itself may be experiencing a population dip, its suburbs are thriving! Many folks are flocking to nearby areas, perhaps seeking that perfect balance of city life without the hustle and bustle of downtown. So even though Austin may have stepped aside in this population race, its surrounding regions are still buzzing with activity.

What Lies Ahead?

As Fort Worth shines brighter on the Texas map, it’s clear that this city’s diverse job options, affordability, and more manageable living environment are luring folks in droves. With predictions indicating a future of continued growth, it’s a thrilling time to be in or visit Fort Worth. Whether you’re a long-time resident, a newcomer, or just passing through, keep those eyes on Fort Worth—it’s a city that’s on the rise and showing no signs of slowing down!