Living in North Richland Hills TX: Complete Neighborhood Guide 2026

Are you considering living in North Richland Hills TX? If you’re exploring where to live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, North Richland Hills offers an exceptional combination of affordability, excellent schools, and family-friendly amenities—making living in North Richland Hills TX one of the smartest moves for families and professionals. Whether you’re exploring North Richland Hills Texas real estate or planning to move to North Richland Hills TX, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this highly desirable community.

As a real estate agent specializing in Tarrant County neighborhoods, I help families discover the perfect community for their needs. North Richland Hills consistently ranks as one of the best value communities in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, offering excellent Birdville ISD schools, safe neighborhoods, and convenient access to Fort Worth and DFW Airport.

In this guide, I’ll cover North Richland Hills TX home prices, schools, neighborhoods, things to do, cost of living, and why so many families choose North Richland Hills as their home. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, growing family, or relocating professional, you’ll discover why North Richland Hills Texas is one of Tarrant County’s premier value communities.

Table of Contents:

• Why Live in North Richland Hills TX?
• North Richland Hills TX Real Estate Market Overview
• Birdville ISD: Schools & Education
• Best Neighborhoods in North Richland Hills TX
• Cost of Living in North Richland Hills TX
• Things to Do in North Richland Hills TX
• North Richland Hills’ Location & Commute Times
• Pros & Cons of Living in North Richland Hills TX
• Moving to North Richland Hills TX: What to Expect

Why Live in North Richland Hills TX?

North Richland Hills offers a unique combination of advantages that make it one of the most attractive value communities in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Here’s why families and professionals choose living in North Richland Hills TX:

1. Excellent Value for Top-Rated Schools

First and foremost, North Richland Hills provides access to highly-rated Birdville ISD schools at significantly lower prices than neighboring Keller, Southlake, or Colleyville. Additionally, Birdville ISD schools earn 7-9/10 ratings on GreatSchools.org, with strong academics, competitive athletics, and excellent fine arts programs.

Pro Tip: North Richland Hills offers the best value proposition in Tarrant County: excellent schools at $375K median home price vs. $550K in Keller or $750K in Southlake. If you want top-rated schools without premium pricing, North Richland Hills is an outstanding choice.

2. Safe, Family-Friendly Community

Furthermore, North Richland Hills prioritizes families with safe neighborhoods, excellent parks, youth sports programs, and community events. Crime rates are well below the national average, and residents report strong neighborhood connections and community pride.

3. Diverse, Well-Maintained Neighborhoods

Beyond schools, North Richland Hills features a mix of established neighborhoods and newer developments. In addition, you’ll find well-maintained homes, mature trees, and strong property values throughout the city.

4. Central Tarrant County Location

North Richland Hills sits in central Tarrant County, providing easy access to Fort Worth, DFW Airport, and major employment centers. Similarly, you’re 15-20 minutes from downtown Fort Worth, 20-25 minutes from DFW Airport, and 25-30 minutes from Alliance business corridor.

5. Excellent Parks & Recreation

North Richland Hills maintains an extensive parks system with NRH2O Family Water Park, sports complexes, walking trails, and community centers. Meanwhile, families enjoy year-round recreation programs, youth sports leagues, and community events.

6. Strong Property Values & Appreciation

North Richland Hills homes maintain strong resale value due to excellent schools, central location, and high quality of life. Overall, North Richland Hills real estate is considered a solid long-term investment with consistent appreciation.

7. Established City with Modern Amenities

Despite being one of Tarrant County’s older suburbs, North Richland Hills offers modern shopping, dining, and entertainment while maintaining a family-focused, community atmosphere.

Pro Tip: North Richland Hills offers the perfect combination: top-rated Birdville ISD schools, safe neighborhoods, and family-friendly amenities at prices $150K-$200K lower than Keller or Southlake. If you want quality without luxury pricing, North Richland Hills is an excellent choice.

 

 

North Richland Hills TX Real Estate Market Overview

Before you buy, understanding the North Richland Hills Texas real estate market helps you make informed decisions when buying or selling.

Current Market Conditions (2026)

• Median Home Price: $375,000
• Price Range: $250,000 to $650,000+
• Average Days on Market: 25-35 days
• Market Type: Balanced to slightly competitive
• Year-Over-Year Appreciation: 4-6% annually

What $375,000 Buys in North Richland Hills TX

A typical $375,000 home in North Richland Hills includes:

• Size: 1,800-2,400 square feet
• Bedrooms: 3-4 bedrooms
• Bathrooms: 2-3 bathrooms
• Lot Size: 0.15-0.25 acres (6,500-11,000 sq ft)
• Built: 1970s-2000s (well-maintained, many updated)
• Features: Updated kitchens, modern finishes, 2-car garage, mature landscaping

North Richland Hills vs. Neighboring Cities: Price Comparison

• Southlake: $750,000 median (double NRH prices)
• Keller: $550,000 median (47% higher than NRH)
• Colleyville: $625,000 median (67% higher than NRH)
• Grapevine: $475,000 median (27% higher than NRH)
• North Richland Hills: $375,000 median (best value)
• Hurst: $325,000 median (13% lower than NRH)

What this means: In other words, North Richland Hills offers excellent schools and amenities at prices significantly lower than premium Tarrant County cities, making it the best value for families prioritizing education and quality of life.

Property Taxes in North Richland Hills TX

• Effective Tax Rate: 2.3-2.5% of home value annually
• Example: $375,000 home = $8,625-$9,375 annually ($719-$781/month)

Important note: However, Texas has no state income tax. For instance, a family earning $150,000 saves $15,000-$20,000 annually compared to California or New York, offsetting higher property taxes and providing net savings.

North Richland Hills Real Estate Trends

• Demand: Strong and consistent due to excellent schools and affordability
• Inventory: Moderate supply, homes sell within 25-35 days
• Buyer Competition: Moderate (less intense than Keller/Southlake)
• Appreciation: Steady 4-6% annually
• Investment Outlook: Excellent long-term value and appreciation potential

Pro Tip: North Richland Hills’ real estate market offers excellent value with less competition than Keller or Southlake. Work with a local agent who knows North Richland Hills neighborhoods, Birdville ISD school boundaries, and pricing trends to ensure you find the right home at the right price.

Birdville ISD: Schools & Education

Education is a top priority for families considering moving to North Richland Hills TX. Birdville Independent School District is one of the highest-rated school districts in Tarrant County, offering excellent academics, strong programs, and community support.

Birdville ISD Overview

• District Rating: 8/10 on GreatSchools.org
• Total Schools: 30+ campuses serving North Richland Hills, Haltom City, and parts of Fort Worth
• Student-Teacher Ratio: 15:1 (excellent individual attention)
• Graduation Rate: 95%+ (well above Texas average)
• College Readiness: 75%+ of graduates attend college

Top-Rated Schools in North Richland Hills

Elementary Schools:

• Smithfield Elementary (9/10)
• Snow Heights Elementary (8/10)
• North Ridge Elementary (8/10)
• Holiday Heights Elementary (8/10)

Middle Schools:

• North Richland Middle School (8/10)
• Smithfield Middle School (8/10)
• Richland Middle School (7/10)

High Schools:

• Richland High School (8/10)
• Birdville High School (7/10)

What Parents Love About Birdville ISD

Strong Academics: Birdville ISD offers rigorous core curriculum, advanced placement courses, dual credit programs, and college prep. Furthermore, the district consistently ranks among the top in Tarrant County for academic performance and college readiness.

Excellent Fine Arts: Birdville ISD is recognized for its fine arts programs. Meanwhile, students excel in band, orchestra, choir, theater, and visual arts, with numerous regional and state awards.

Competitive Athletics: Birdville ISD offers robust athletics across all sports. In addition, Birdville high schools compete at high levels in football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and more.

Strong Community Support: Birdville ISD benefits from active PTAs, strong community involvement, and well-maintained facilities. Moreover, the district continues investing in technology, safety, and modern learning environments.

Private School Options Near North Richland Hills

For families seeking private education, North Richland Hills offers convenient access to:

• Covenant Christian Academy (Pre-K through 12th grade)
• All Saints Episcopal School (Pre-K through 8th grade)
• Trinity Valley School (Pre-K through 12th grade, nearby Fort Worth)
• Fort Worth Country Day School (Pre-K through 12th grade)

Higher Education Access

North Richland Hills residents enjoy proximity to major universities:

• Tarrant County College Northeast Campus (5 minutes)
• University of North Texas at Dallas (20 minutes)
• Texas Christian University (TCU) (25 minutes)
• University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) (25 minutes)

Learn more: Visit GreatSchools.org for detailed school ratings, reviews, and performance data.

Pro Tip: When buying in North Richland Hills, verify exact school assignments with Birdville ISD. Boundaries can be complex, and being one street over can mean a different school. Birdville ISD schools are consistently excellent, with Smithfield Elementary and North Richland Middle School being particularly sought-after.

 

 

Best Neighborhoods in North Richland Hills TX

North Richland Hills offers diverse neighborhoods to match different lifestyles and budgets. Here are the top communities for families considering living in North Richland Hills TX:

1. Meadow Lakes

• Price Range: $350,000-$500,000
• Home Style: Traditional single-family homes, ranch and two-story
• Lot Size: 0.15-0.25 acres
• Built: 1970s-1980s (many updated)
• What makes it special: Established neighborhood, mature trees, excellent Smithfield Elementary, strong community

2. Smithfield

• Price Range: $325,000-$475,000
• Home Style: Traditional single-family homes, brick exteriors
• Lot Size: 0.15-0.20 acres
• Built: 1960s-1980s (well-maintained)
• Standout features: Top-rated Smithfield Elementary and Middle School, central location, family-friendly

3. Fossil Creek Estates

• Price Range: $400,000-$650,000+
• Home Style: Newer homes, modern designs
• Lot Size: 0.20-0.30 acres
• Built: 2000s-2010s
• Key benefits: Newer construction, modern amenities, larger lots, premium neighborhood

4. Holiday Heights

• Price Range: $300,000-$425,000
• Home Style: Traditional single-family homes
• Lot Size: 0.15-0.20 acres
• Built: 1970s-1990s
• Why it’s great: Excellent Holiday Heights Elementary, affordable, strong community feel

5. North Ridge

• Price Range: $325,000-$450,000
• Home Style: Traditional single-family homes, ranch and two-story
• Lot Size: 0.15-0.25 acres
• Built: 1970s-1980s
• What sets it apart: Top-rated North Ridge Elementary, mature trees, excellent value

Neighborhood Comparison: North Richland Hills vs. Nearby Cities

• Keller: $550K median, Keller ISD (9/10), premium pricing
• Southlake: $750K median, Carroll ISD (10/10), luxury pricing
• Colleyville: $625K median, Grapevine-Colleyville ISD (9/10), upscale
• North Richland Hills: $375K median, Birdville ISD (8/10), best value
• Hurst: $325K median, Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD (7/10), most affordable

Pro Tip: North Richland Hills offers excellent value compared to Keller, Southlake, and Colleyville while maintaining top-rated Birdville ISD schools and family-friendly amenities. If you want quality education and safe neighborhoods without premium pricing, North Richland Hills is an outstanding choice.

Need Help Finding the Perfect North Richland Hills Neighborhood?

Choosing the right North Richland Hills neighborhood is critical to your family’s happiness and long-term satisfaction. With so many excellent communities to choose from, having a local expert who understands school boundaries, property values, and neighborhood culture makes all the difference.

As a real estate agent specializing in North Richland Hills and Tarrant County, I help families find the perfect home that matches their priorities, budget, and lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking top-rated schools, established neighborhoods, or specific amenities, I’ll provide personalized guidance and support throughout your entire home search.

Let’s discuss your needs and find your perfect North Richland Hills home.

Collin Seaton

Real Estate Agent | Century 21 Judge Fite

Phone: 817-970-9240

Email:collinseaton@judgefite.com

Website: collinseatonhomes.com

 

 

Cost of Living in North Richland Hills TX

Understanding the cost of living in North Richland Hills TX helps you budget effectively and compare North Richland Hills to other cities.

Housing Costs

• Median Home Price: $375,000
• Median Rent (3BR): $1,800-$2,200/month
• Property Taxes: 2.3-2.5% annually

Utilities & Services

• Electricity: $150-$250/month (varies by season)
• Water/Sewer/Trash: $80-$120/month
• Internet/Cable: $100-$150/month
• Total Utilities: $330-$520/month

Transportation

• Gas Prices: $2.50-$3.50/gallon (Texas average)
• Car Insurance: $1,200-$1,800/year (Texas average)
• Vehicle Registration: $50-$150/year

Groceries & Dining

• Groceries (family of 4): $800-$1,200/month
• Dining Out: $40-$80 per meal (mid-range restaurant)

Overall Cost of Living Index

• National Average: 100
• North Richland Hills: 105-110 (5-10% above national average)
• Dallas-Fort Worth Average: 110-115
• Comparison: Lower than Keller (120), Southlake (135), or Colleyville (130)

What this means: North Richland Hills’ cost of living is slightly above the national average due to housing costs, but significantly lower than premium Tarrant County cities and major metros like San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, or Seattle.

Pro Tip: Texas has no state income tax. A family earning $150,000 saves $15,000-$20,000 annually compared to high-tax states, offsetting higher property taxes and providing substantial net savings.

 

 

Things to Do in North Richland Hills TX

Living in North Richland Hills TX means access to excellent local amenities and proximity to DFW’s world-class entertainment.

Parks & Recreation

North Richland Hills Parks System:

• NRH2O Family Water Park (premier regional water park)
• NRH Centre (community center, fitness, indoor pool)
• Fossil Creek Park (sports fields, playgrounds, trails)
• Iron Horse Golf Course (18-hole public course)
• 40+ neighborhood parks with playgrounds and sports facilities

Outdoor Activities:

• Walking/biking trails throughout the city
• Youth sports leagues (soccer, baseball, basketball, football)
• Community events and festivals year-round

Shopping & Dining

Nearby Shopping:

• North East Mall (5 minutes, major retail destination)
• Fossil Creek Shopping Center (local shops and services)
• Nearby Southlake Town Square (15 minutes, upscale shopping)
• Alliance Town Center (20 minutes, major retail and entertainment)

Dining Options: In addition, North Richland Hills offers diverse dining from Tex-Mex and BBQ to upscale restaurants. Nearby Fort Worth and Southlake provide additional world-class dining options.

Family Attractions

Nearby Attractions:

• Fort Worth Zoo (20 minutes, top-rated zoo)
• Fort Worth Stockyards (25 minutes, historic district)
• Fort Worth Museum of Science and History (20 minutes)
• Texas Motor Speedway (15 minutes, NASCAR racing)
• Six Flags Over Texas (30 minutes, major theme park)

Sports & Fitness

• Multiple fitness centers and gyms
• Youth sports programs through Parks & Recreation
• Iron Horse Golf Course
• Walking/biking trails throughout the city

North Richland Hills’ Location & Commute Times

North Richland Hills’ central Tarrant County location provides convenient access throughout DFW. Here’s what you need to know about commuting and travel:

Commute Times from North Richland Hills

• Downtown Fort Worth: 15-20 minutes
• DFW International Airport: 20-25 minutes
• Alliance Business Corridor: 15-20 minutes
• Downtown Dallas: 35-40 minutes
• Arlington (AT&T Stadium): 25-30 minutes

Major Highways & Access

• I-820 Loop: Direct access (circles Fort Worth)
• TX-183 (Airport Freeway): Direct access to DFW Airport
• I-35W: 10 minutes (north-south corridor)
• TX-121: 15 minutes (connects to DFW Airport and Grapevine)

Public Transportation

• Trinity Metro Bus: Limited routes serving North Richland Hills
• TEXRail: Nearest station in Grapevine (15 minutes)

Important note: North Richland Hills is a driving city. Plan on owning a car for daily life and commuting.

Pro Tip: When choosing a North Richland Hills home, consider proximity to your workplace. North Richland Hills’ central Tarrant County location offers excellent commutes to Fort Worth, Alliance, and DFW Airport, but rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM) can add 15-20 minutes.

Pros & Cons of Living in North Richland Hills TX

Every city has advantages and trade-offs. Here’s an honest assessment of living in North Richland Hills Texas:

Pros of Living in North Richland Hills TX

✅ Excellent Value: Top-rated schools at $375K median vs. $550K Keller or $750K Southlake

✅ Strong Schools:Birdville ISD (8/10) offers excellent academics, fine arts, and athletics

✅ Safe, Family-Friendly: Low crime, excellent parks, strong community

✅ Central Location: 15-20 minutes to Fort Worth, 20-25 minutes to DFW Airport

✅ NRH2O Water Park: Premier regional attraction, perfect for families

✅ Established Neighborhoods: Mature trees, well-maintained homes, strong property values

✅ Lower Competition: Less intense than Keller/Southlake, easier to buy

✅ No State Income Tax: Keep more of your paycheck compared to high-tax states

Cons of Living in North Richland Hills TX

❌ Older Homes: Most built 1960s-1980s (though many updated)

❌ Property Taxes: 2.3-2.5% annually (offset by no state income tax)

❌ Limited Walkability: Car required for daily life and errands

❌ Less Prestige: Not as well-known as Keller, Southlake, or Colleyville

❌ Limited New Construction: Fewer brand-new homes compared to newer suburbs

❌ Hot Summers: 95-100°F common June-August (typical for all DFW)

Who Should Live in North Richland Hills TX?

Overall, North Richland Hills is perfect for:

• Families prioritizing excellent schools and affordability
• First-time buyers seeking quality at accessible prices
• Professionals working in Fort Worth, Alliance, or DFW Airport
• Buyers priced out of Keller, Southlake, or Colleyville
• Families wanting established neighborhoods with mature trees
• Anyone seeking strong community and family-friendly amenities

North Richland Hills may not be ideal for:

• Buyers seeking brand-new construction or modern architecture
• Those prioritizing luxury amenities or prestige addresses
• People requiring walkable urban lifestyle
• Buyers needing easy Dallas commute (35-40 minutes)

Pro Tip: North Richland Hills offers the best value in Tarrant County: excellent Birdville ISD schools, safe neighborhoods, and family-friendly amenities at prices $150K-$200K lower than Keller or Southlake. If education and affordability are your top priorities, North Richland Hills is an outstanding choice.

Moving to North Richland Hills TX: What to Expect

Planning your move to North Richland Hills? Here’s what you need to know. Once you’re ready to buy, here’s the process:

Best Time to Buy in North Richland Hills

• Spring (March-May): Most inventory, competitive market
• Summer (June-August): High activity, families buying before school
• Fall (September-November): Moderate inventory, less competition
• Winter (December-February): Lowest inventory, best negotiating opportunities

North Richland Hills Home Buying Process

1. Get Pre-Approved: Secure financing before house hunting
2. Define Priorities: Schools, neighborhoods, budget, must-haves
3. Tour Neighborhoods: Visit multiple areas, attend open houses
4. Make Competitive Offer: Work with local agent for pricing guidance
5. Home Inspection: Identify any issues before closing
6. Close & Move In: Typically 30-45 days from offer acceptance

What to Know Before Moving to North Richland Hills

Verify School Boundaries: School assignments can be complex. Confirm with Birdville ISD before buying.

Plan for Driving: North Richland Hills requires a car for daily life. Factor in vehicle costs and commute times.

Explore Neighborhoods: Each North Richland Hills neighborhood has unique character. Tour multiple areas before deciding.

Consider Home Age: Most homes built 1960s-1980s. Budget for potential updates or look for recently renovated properties.

Budget for Property Taxes: Plan for 2.3-2.5% annually (offset by no state income tax).

Pro Tip: The most successful North Richland Hills home purchases happen when buyers visit multiple neighborhoods, work with local experts, and prioritize location relative to work and schools.

Ready to Find Your Perfect North Richland Hills Home?

Living in North Richland Hills TX offers excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, beautiful homes, and outstanding value. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, growing family, or relocating professional, North Richland Hills provides the perfect combination of quality education, family-friendly amenities, and affordability.

As a real estate agent specializing in North Richland Hills and Tarrant County, I provide personalized guidance, neighborhood expertise, and support throughout your entire home search. From finding the perfect neighborhood and home to navigating the buying process and closing, I’m here to make your North Richland Hills home purchase smooth and successful.

Let’s discuss your specific needs, priorities, and budget. I’ll help you find the perfect North Richland Hills home for your family.

Collin Seaton

Real Estate Agent | Century 21 Judge Fite

Phone: 817-970-9240

Email:collinseaton@judgefite.com

Website: collinseatonhomes.com

 

 

About the Author

Collin Seaton is a dedicated real estate agent with Century 21 Judge Fite, specializing in helping families find their perfect home in North Richland Hills and throughout Tarrant County. With deep knowledge of North Richland Hills neighborhoods, Birdville ISD schools, and local market conditions, Collin provides data-driven insights and personalized guidance to ensure buyers find the right home at the right price.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, growing family, or relocating professional, Collin is committed to making your North Richland Hills home purchase smooth, successful, and stress-free.

Contact Collin today: 817-970-9240 | collinseaton@judgefite.com

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