When Barbara Crotty retired from a long nursing career, she chose to settle in Fort Worth’s Fairmount Historic District, a neighborhood she had admired for years. Originally from New York and a former Houston resident, Crotty moved to the area in 2019, drawn by its historic homes, mature trees, and walkable streets.
Finding a Home
Her search concluded with a turn‑of‑the‑century Craftsman bungalow that had been lovingly restored by a previous couple. The renovation honored the home’s original style while updating it for modern living. After purchasing the house, Crotty began to explore the neighborhood, though she waited several months before fully retiring and moving in.
Community Connections
Fairmount’s sense of community quickly became evident. Crotty joined the Fairmount Neighborhood Association before she even moved, eager to become involved. The association organizes a range of activities, from the Fairmount Community Garden to street festivals on Magnolia Avenue, such as Open Streets and ArtsGoggle, and the annual Tour of Historic Homes.
Through the neighborhood’s Facebook page, she found neighbors ready to help. When she needed a wheelchair, a resident responded within half an hour, leaving the chair on her porch. The area also features several little free libraries, one of which provides food‑pantry items, reinforcing the neighborhood’s caring spirit.
Faith and Volunteering
As a Unitarian Universalist, Crotty appreciates having a church just a few blocks from her home. She also volunteers on the board of the neighborhood association, a role that has deepened her sense of belonging. Beyond Fairmount, she engages with the Greater Fort Worth Sierra Club on environmental issues and participates in the Fort Worth Newcomers Club, which offers a variety of social activities for newcomers.
Lifelong Learning and Local Amenities
Fort Worth’s cultural and educational resources have further enriched her retirement. She attends TCU’s Silver Frogs lifelong‑learning program, enjoys proximity to the Fort Worth Zoo, the museum district, and top‑rated medical facilities, and remains just a mile from her family, including two grandsons.
Why Fort Worth Over Houston?
When asked to compare Fort Worth with Houston, Crotty cites a simple but significant advantage: Fort Worth’s lack of hurricanes. The city’s stable climate, combined with its strong sense of community, makes it an ideal place for retirees seeking both safety and social connection.
Neighborhood Demographics
Fairmount’s population of 3,354 is roughly balanced between women (48%) and men (52%). The area is home to a mix of age groups, with a notable concentration of residents in their 30s (22.9%). Educational attainment is high, with 37.8% holding bachelor’s degrees and 20.5% possessing postgraduate credentials. Racially, the neighborhood is predominantly White (69.5%), with a growing Hispanic presence (26.9%).
Overall, Crotty’s experience illustrates how a welcoming historic district, active civic groups, and abundant local amenities can create a vibrant, supportive environment for retirees and newcomers alike.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
