Is Fort Worth, Texas Safe?

Fort Worth offers a vibrant, affordable lifestyle. Its safety, however, varies significantly by neighborhood. Its overall crime rates are a bit higher than the national average.
In this article, we will discuss how safe Fort Worth, Texas, is. We will share the recent crime statistics and highlight some safe and unsafe neighborhoods. We will look at the crime trend and share some tips to ensure your safety.
Is Fort Worth, Texas Safe?
According to the latest FBI Uniform Crime Report data, Fort Worth's violent crime rate (VCR) is approximately 4.9 incidents per 1,000 residents. It includes 85 murders, 679 rapes, 694 robberies, and 3,320 assault cases. Property crime is more prevalent, with a rate (PCR) near 26.43 per 1,000 residents, with a total of 3,817 burglaries, 17,260 thefts, and 4,787 motor vehicle thefts.
When compared to other large Texas cities, Fort Worth's safety profile sits in the middle. Its violent crime rate is typically lower than in Dallas but higher than in Austin. The property crime rate remains a persistent challenge across many neighborhoods.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer, NeighborhoodScout
How Safe Is Fort Worth, Texas? What Will Affect?
Your personal safety is influenced by several factors. The most significant factor is your specific neighborhood. Common crimes include vehicle break-ins, package theft, and burglary. Petty theft is frequent in crowded public spaces. Always secure your belongings and vehicle doors.
Recent crime trends show a complex picture. Data from the Fort Worth Police Department indicates that violent crime has seen a slight decrease in recent years. Property crime rates, however, have remained stubbornly high. Community policing initiatives aim to address these trends. The overall direction is cautiously optimistic but requires vigilance.
Other factors affecting safety include time of day and situational awareness. Tourist areas like Sundance Square are generally safer. Less populated areas can pose higher risks at night. Your own precautions greatly impact your safety experience. Economic factors also influence local crime statistics.
Source: Fort Worth Police Department Crime Analytics & Dashboard
5 Safest Neighborhoods in Fort Worth, Texas
Safety in Fort Worth is highly localized. The city features several communities with exceptionally low crime rates.
Tanglewood
Tanglewood is an affluent, established neighborhood known for its spacious homes and serene atmosphere. It consistently demonstrates exceptionally low crime rates, with a VCR estimated near 0.5 incidents per 1,000 residents.
The PCR here is also remarkably low, typically around 8 per 1,000 residents. This tight-knit community benefits from high property values and active neighborhood awareness, which collectively deter criminal activity and foster a secure environment for families.
Rivercrest
Rivercrest is synonymous with luxury, featuring grand estates and heavily landscaped properties. This exclusive area maintains a nearly negligible VCR, often reported at less than 0.3 per 1,000 residents. Its secluded nature and private security contribute to this outstanding record.
Property crime is equally rare, with a PCR consistently below 7 per 1,000 residents. The neighborhood's design, combined with a visible security presence and strong social cohesion, makes it one of the most secure enclaves not just in Fort Worth, but in the wider region.
Westover Hills
Westover Hills is a unique, incorporated city within Fort Worth with its own dedicated police force. This autonomy results in an extraordinarily low VCR, frequently below 0.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. Proactive, hyper-local policing is a key factor here.
The community also enjoys a PCR under 6 per 1,000 residents. As an affluent residential area with limited through traffic and significant resources, Westover Hills effectively minimizes opportunities for most types of criminal incidents.
Walsh Ranch
Walsh Ranch is a modern, master-planned community built with safety as a foundational principle. Its VCR is impressively low, estimated at approximately 0.6 per 1,000 residents. Thoughtful urban design and a focus on community spaces promote natural surveillance.
The PCR here is also well-controlled, at around 9 per 1,000 residents. New infrastructure, active neighborhood watches, and a demographic of young families all contribute to creating a secure and vigilant living environment.
Heritage
Heritage is a well-regarded, family-oriented neighborhood with a strong sense of community. It reports a very low VCR, typically around 0.8 per 1,000 residents. This is supported by active neighborhood associations and community watch programs.
The PCR in Heritage is maintained at a commendable level, roughly 11 per 1,000 residents. Its established streets, good lighting, and neighborly atmosphere help deter crime and make it a consistently top-rated safe area for residents.
Where Not to Stay in Fort Worth, Texas?
While Fort Worth has many safe areas, some locations require extra caution.
Based on Fort Worth Police Department crime data and community reports, neighborhoods to be particularly cautious of include:
- Stop Six
- Como
- Las Vegas Trail
- Eastern parts of Downtown (near I-30 & Lancaster Avenue)
- Morningside
- Rosemont
- Southside (certain areas south of Vickery Boulevard)
Always consult recent, hyper-local crime maps before booking accommodations or renting in an unfamiliar area.
Source: Fort Worth PD Crime Map
Key Safety Tips to Stay in Fort Worth, Texas
Staying safe in any city involves proactive measures. Use these essential tips to protect yourself and your property in Fort Worth.
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Secure Your Vehicle: Never leave valuables in sight. Always lock your doors, as many thefts are crimes of opportunity.
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Be Street Smart at Night: Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone in deserted places after dark.
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Harden Your Home: Use motion-sensor lights and strong door locks. For comprehensive monitoring, consider the Reolink Duo 3V PoE. This 16MP UHD camera provides a 180° panorama, motion tracking, and is IK10 vandal-proof.
Reolink Duo 3V PoE16MP Dual-Lens IK10 Vandal-Proof PoE Camera
16MP Ultra HD, 180° Panorama, Motion Track, IK10 Vandal-Proof, color night vision.
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Stay Aware in Crowds: Keep wallets and phones secure in tourist zones. Be mindful of your surroundings to prevent petty theft.
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Research Your Destination: Check real-time crime maps before exploring new neighborhoods. Know which areas to avoid.
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Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels unsafe, leave immediately. Your intuition is a powerful safety tool.
FAQs
What is the #1 safest city in Texas?
According to SafeWise and FBI data, Frisco, Texas, is consistently ranked the #1 safest city. It boasts violent and property crime rates far below state and national averages.
Is Fort Worth, Texas, safer than Dallas?
Data from the Texas Department of Public Safety shows Fort Worth is generally safer than Dallas. Fort Worth typically has a lower violent crime rate, though property crime rates are often comparable.
Is it safe to walk around Fort Worth?
Yes, in many popular districts it is safe. Areas like the Cultural District and Sundance Square are pedestrian-friendly. Always remain aware of your surroundings, especially after dusk.
Is downtown Fort Worth safe at night?
The core of Downtown, especially Sundance Square, is patrolled and generally safe at night. Stick to the main, well-lit streets with other people. Exercise more caution in peripheral areas and parking garages.
Conclusion
The crime data of Fort Worth, Texas, reveals a city of contrasts. Your safety depends on the neighborhood you choose. It's violent, and property crime rates are higher than the national average, but it is also lower than in many Texas cities. With informed awareness and safety tips, you can enjoy all it offers and save yourself from becoming a victim of crime.
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