Fort Worth’s population has officially topped 1 million, making it the 11th-largest city in the United States, according to newly released 2024 estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau.
The city’s population reached 1,008,106 as of July 2024, surpassing Austin by more than 15,000 residents and positioning Fort Worth as the fourth-largest city in Texas. It now trails Jacksonville, Florida, by fewer than 2,000 people and could soon move into the No. 10 spot nationwide.
Fastest-Growing Major City Since 2020
Among the 30 most populous cities in the country, Fort Worth has seen the fastest growth since 2020, expanding by 9.7% over the last four years. In the past year alone, the city grew by 3.1%, adding 23,442 residents — approximately 64 new people each day.
It ranks fifth in total population gain among all U.S. cities over 20,000 people during the past year. Only New York City added more residents, with 87,184.
Despite the rapid increase, Fort Worth remains among the least densely populated major cities, ranking 24th out of the top 30. Only Oklahoma City, Jacksonville, Nashville-Davidson County, Memphis, Indianapolis, and El Paso are less dense.
City Leaders Respond
“This is an exciting and significant milestone for Fort Worth,” said Mayor Mattie Parker. “We are in a crucial moment of growth and opportunity, and it’s more important than ever that we lead with smart policies, smart investments and smart planning to ensure our city continues to thrive long into the future.”
City Manager Jay Chapa added, “Surpassing 1 million residents is a reminder that the work matters, and we have a responsibility to continue stewarding that growth into the future.”
Planning for Fort Worth’s Future
Fort Worth’s FWLab is using the population data to guide the city’s 2050 Comprehensive Plan, the annual budget, and future bond planning. The goal is to align population trends with public service needs and infrastructure development.
“The 1 million mark reflects not just growth, but complexity,” said Chief Transformation Officer Christianne Simmons. “As Fort Worth becomes a bigger city, the questions get tougher — about infrastructure, public services and how to make limited dollars go further.”
Largest U.S. Cities in 2024 (Census Estimate)
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New York City – 8.4 million
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Los Angeles – 3.8 million
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Chicago – 2.7 million
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Houston – 2.3 million
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Phoenix – 1.6 million
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Philadelphia – 1.5 million
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San Antonio – 1.5 million
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San Diego – 1.4 million
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Dallas – 1.3 million
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Jacksonville – 1,010,000
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Fort Worth – 1,008,106
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San Jose – 997,000
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Austin – 993,000
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Charlotte – 943,000
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Columbus – 933,000
The growth is attributed to a combination of factors including a strong economy, lower cost of living, and a favorable business environment — part of a broader trend driving population expansion across Texas.
