The 2025 Fort Worth Economy Report

Fort Worth, Texas continues to evolve as a powerhouse in the commercial landscape, offering both established businesses and new ventures an environment ripe for growth and innovation. In 2025, the city sits at a crossroads of opportunity, supported by a growing population, strategic location, and diverse economic development initiatives.

A Robust Commercial Ecosystem

The Fort Worth economy is thriving, with significant contributions from industries like logistics, healthcare innovation, and manufacturing. Fort Worth Business Editor Bob Francis says, "Fort Worth is in a real sweet spot for the economy." The city has seen major projects come to fruition, such as Bell Helicopter's future manufacturing facility and the long-term investments in healthcare and life sciences. These developments not only create jobs but also cement the city’s position as a hub for innovation and industrial growth.

Former Fort Worth Economic Development Director, Robert Sturns, says, “We’ve seen some significant growth, really headlined by what’s happening in North Fort Worth around the Alliance area. That has really been our staple from the standpoint of industrial development. A lot of growth is also happening downtown and in the west side – we have some new developments that are Class A Mixed Use. And then there’s two big areas in West Fort Worth – Walsh Ranch and Veale Ranch – with significant tracts of land with large interest. It’s an exciting time to be here!”

Strength in the Commercial Sector

The commercial real estate market reflects this upward momentum. High-end office spaces, particularly Class A developments, are performing exceptionally well, while redevelopment projects breathe new life into older areas like downtown Fort Worth. The Alliance area remains a hotspot for industrial and residential expansion, demonstrating a commitment to long-term growth strategies.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Fort Worth's commercial sector is thriving, it faces challenges such as rising construction costs, labor shortages in key industries, and the need for improved infrastructure. However, businesses are leveraging Fort Worth’s strategic location and relatively affordable property values to offset these hurdles.

One of the city’s key strengths lies in its strong community relationships. "Fort Worth is a very friendly community. People here value relationships and want to get to know you before they do business," shared Doug Cassidy, Southside Bank Commercial Lender. This collaborative spirit is complemented by strategic city initiatives, including the Texas A&M urban campus project, which promises to drive innovation and talent development for decades to come.

Moving Forward

As Fort Worth surpasses Austin in population, its role as a dynamic economic hub is undeniable. Local leadership continues to prioritize infrastructure, water resources, and workforce development to sustain this growth. There’s no landlock hindrance for growth and plenty of surrounding real estate for the expansion of this metropolitan region. With a focus on supporting entrepreneurial ventures and expanding existing businesses, Fort Worth is poised for a future of continued prosperity.

For corporate leaders and investors, the message is clear: Fort Worth offers a fertile ground for growth, underpinned by strong economic fundamentals, a business-friendly culture, and a forward-thinking vision.

Learn more about Southside Bank’s involvement in the Fort Worth community at southside.com/ntx.