Highlands Ranch, Colorado: A Thriving Community at the Foot of the Rockies

Highlands Ranch, Colorado is a thriving community located just south of Denver, at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. With a population of over 100,000 people, Highlands Ranch is one of the largest suburbs in the Denver Metropolitan area. This vibrant community offers a high quality of life, excellent schools, and plenty of recreational opportunities. In this article, we will explore what it's like to live in Highlands Ranch and provide statistics on the community.

Demographics

According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Highlands Ranch was 106,739 as of the 2020 census. The median age in the community is 36.9 years, and the median household income is $122,266. The community is predominantly white, with 77.5% of the population identifying as White, 9.7% as Asian, and 6.6% as Hispanic or Latino. The community is also highly educated, with 62.9% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher.

Housing

Highlands Ranch offers a wide range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The median home value in Highlands Ranch is $563,500, which is higher than the median home value in Colorado. The majority of homes in the community are owner-occupied, with 81.6% of residents owning their homes.

Schools

Highlands Ranch is served by the Douglas County School District, which is one of the top-rated school districts in Colorado. The district includes 16 elementary schools, 6 middle schools, and 6 high schools, including Highlands Ranch High School, which is one of the largest high schools in the state. In addition, Highlands Ranch is home to several private schools, including Valor Christian High School, which is a nationally recognized private Christian school.

Recreation

Highlands Ranch offers a variety of recreational opportunities for residents of all ages. The community is home to over 20 parks, which offer hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. In addition, the community has several golf courses, including the award-winning Highlands Ranch Golf Club. The community also has several fitness centers, including the Southridge Recreation Center, which offers indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and a climbing wall.

Economy

Highlands Ranch is home to several major employers, including Charles Schwab, Kaiser Permanente, and VISA. The community also has a thriving small business community, with over 1,500 small businesses in the area. The unemployment rate in Highlands Ranch is lower than the national average, at 2.8%.

Safety

Highlands Ranch is one of the safest communities in Colorado, with a crime rate that is lower than the national average. The community has its own police department, which is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for residents.

Conclusion

Highlands Ranch, Colorado is a thriving community that offers a high quality of life, excellent schools, and plenty of recreational opportunities. With a diverse population, a strong economy, and a commitment to safety, Highlands Ranch is a popular destination for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Whether you're looking for a home near the mountains or a place to raise a family, Highlands Ranch has something for everyone.