‘Significant milestone’: Fort Worth leaders react to city’s 1 million population
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Fort Worth surpassed 1 million residents, becoming the 11th largest U.S. city.
- City leaders stressed infrastructure, safety and planning amid rapid growth.
- Economic momentum, tourism and job creation continue fueling population gains.
Fort Worth city leaders celebrated Thursday’s census figures that confirmed the city’s population crossed the 1 million threshold.
“This is an exciting and significant milestone for Fort Worth,” said Mayor Mattie Parker in a statement to the Star-Telegram.
Fort Worth is at a crucial moment for growth and opportunity, Parker said, stressing the importance of leading with smart policies that ensure the city thrives into the future.
Fort Worth is now the 11th largest city in the United States, and leapfrogged Austin to become the fourth largest city in Texas.
The city has gained roughly 400,000 residents in the last 20 years, and nearly 90,000 since the 2020, according to the census.
Fort Worth city council member Michael Crain, who represents the rapidly expanding far western portions of the city, called the announcement a testament to the city’s vibrancy and appeal.
“As we celebrate this growth, it’s more important than ever for us as city leaders to focus on what truly makes a great city,” Crain said in a text message to the Star-Telegram.
He stressed the importance of maintaining the city’s roads and ensuring essential services like police and fire keep pace with growth to meet residents’ needs.
“Our commitment is to build a Fort Worth that remains strong, safe, and welcoming for everyone,” he said.
Here’s what other council members and officials said about the milestone:
Alan Blaylock (District 10): “Welcome to Fort Worth! The impressive growth in Fort Worth and North Central Texas shows how attractive the region is as a place for people to live, work, and play. Managing that growth throughout the region highlights the need for, as well as the incredible importance of, regional planning and implementation of infrastructure improvement projects at the federal, state, county, and local levels.”
Elizabeth Beck (District 9): “This momentous day for Fort Worth is a result of this community being a thriving place that people want to call ‘home.’”
Macy Hill (District 7): “Fort Worth is experiencing historic growth due to our excellent quality of life and commitment to low taxes, safe neighborhoods, job creation and economic development. In the coming years, it’s critical that the council continues to build consensus and prioritizes the essential city services that have made Fort Worth one of the most desirable cities to live, work and raise a family. Managing growth and maintaining our quality of life is doable as long as we listen to our constituents and plan responsibly.”
Chris Nettles (District 8): “It’s developments and job creation in the area have aided the population boom. Particularly in far South and North Fort Worth. Fort Worth is a more livable place that makes you feel like you’re home. A big city with a small-town feel.”
Carlos Flores (District 2): “Certainly, an incredible milestone achieved because of Fort Worth’s public safety, vibrant culture, steady leadership, strong economy, and family-friendly living.”
Jay Chapa (City Manager): “Growth doesn’t just happen. For decades, the City of Fort Worth has been led by public servants who prioritized fiscal discipline, continually improved services and focused on delivering quality of life for residents. Surpassing 1 million residents is a reminder that the work matters, and we have a responsibility to continue stewarding that growth into the future.”
Bob Jameson (Visit Fort Worth): “Visit Fort Worth was excited to see the news of the population growth to one million residents. The impact of tourism has doubled over the past decade, so it makes sense that our population has increased as well. We are proud to promote a dynamic city that welcomes visitors from all over the world.”
Steve Montgomery (Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce): Fort Worth isn’t just making headlines — we’re setting the pace. The numbers speak volumes, but it’s our momentum that truly stands out. We’re on a powerful upward trajectory, outpacing peer cities in key measures of economic vitality — including unemployment rate, business growth and new registrations, cost of living versus average wage, and workforce availability — all while staying true to the authenticity and character that make Fort Worth unique.This is a city where businesses don’t just open — they thrive. Opportunity is growing, energy is building, and the message is clear: Fort Worth is the place to be. If you’re not here yet, it’s time to make your move.
This story was originally published May 15, 2025 at 3:24 PM.
.jpg)