Fort Worth is more than just a Dallas suburb. "Cowtown" is a laid-back city with a relaxed vibe, and living here will make you feel like a true Texan. Here are some tips for finding the best apartments in Fort Worth:

The basics
The cost of living in Fort Worth is 11 percent less than the national average. Many people who work in Dallas choose to live in Fort Worth – rentals prices here average about $900 across all rental types. A one-bedroom costs an average of $860 per month, while a two-bedroom here will cost approximately $1,175 on average. Fort Worth really is an excellent city for young people – a recent survey of 900 young professionals here revealed that 92 percent were happy living and working in Fort Worth, a place that "works like a city but acts like a town."

The neighborhoods

• Downtown: You'll be in the heart of it all and close to the best restaurants and nightlife. You can expect to pay a bit more for rentals compared to outlying neighborhoods.
• Fairmount/Ryan Place/Magnolia: These up-and-coming areas have a mix of old craftsman-style homes, large manors and apartment living. Magnolia Street is the best in the city for ethnic food.
• Forest Park/TCU/West Cliff: These neighborhoods are close to/part of Texas Christian University, but they aren't too rowdy. In fact, you'll find a mix of single family homes and apartments with young families, seniors and students.

Insider tips
Be prepared for extreme heat in Fort Worth – it averages 40 days per year of temperatures above 100! Stay hydrated and have plenty of sunscreen on hand. If you're looking for a relaxed vibe, Fort Worth is the opposite of flashy Dallas. The restaurants serve up no-fuss good barbecue and things are as casual as they get in a moderately sized city.

Also, Dallas and Fort Worth have a healthy rivalry, so be prepared to defend your new city!

East Meadowbrook, Fort Worth, Texas

Diamond Hill-Jarvis, Fort Worth, Texas

Handley, Fort Worth, Texas