Experience an active lifestyle rooted in community in the Rocky Mountains by living in Highlands Ranch CO! Highlands Ranch is a highly desirable master-planned community south of Denver. The community offers 70 miles of multi-use recreational trails that connect residents to its 26 parks and 4 off-leash dog parks.
Between the abundance of outdoor adventure, shopping, and nightlife options, moving to Highlands Ranch is a good idea for families, young professionals, and even seniors. Highlands Ranch is known for its extensive parks and trails system, hosting the massive (8,200-acre) Backcountry Wilderness Area and many recreational centers.
Highlands Ranch History
According to the Highlands Ranch Historical Society, Highlands Ranch gets its name from the Highlands Ranch Mansion, a historic house constructed in the area between 1891 and 1904.
Today, Highlands Ranch is a good place to live for young families and outdoor recreation enthusiasts who want a suburban paradise with easy access to Denver. Read everything you should know before relocating in our complete guide.
What County Is Highlands Ranch CO in?
Highlands Ranch, Colorado, is located in Douglas County within the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro area and the Front Range Urban Corridor. It's a census-designated place and unincorporated community, 17.2 miles from Denver via South Broadway, and is considered a major Denver suburb.
Several other notable suburbs and Denver neighborhoods surround it, including Littleton and Centennial to the north, Acres Green and Lone Tree to the east, and Castle Pines to the southeast. Highlands Ranch also borders several parks and nature preserves, including BackCountry Base Camp and Chatfield State Park.
Highlands Ranch Information
- Highlands Ranch County: Douglas County
- Highlands Ranch area: 24.3 square miles
- Highlands Ranch CO zip code: 80126, 80129, 80130, and 80163
- Highlands Ranch area code: 303 & 720
- Highlands Ranch CO elevation: 5,817 ft
- Highlands Ranch time zone: Mountain Standard Time (UTC -6 and -7)
- Highlands Ranch closest airport: The Denver International Airport (DEN) is 40 miles away.
Highlands Ranch Population and Demographics
According to Census data, the population of Highlands Ranch Colorado, is 99,056, making it the largest unincorporated community in the state of Colorado. The number of Highlands Ranch residents has increased dramatically since the 1990 census, when the population was only 10,181.
By 2000, over 70,000 people were living in Highlands Ranch, CO an increase of nearly 600%. The growth has slowed slightly, but the population increased by 6.7% between 2010 and 2020. It has a fairly dense suburban/urban atmosphere with a population density of 4,278 residents per square mile.
Highlands Ranch is an affluent community popular among families and retirees. The median age is 42.7, although 22% of residents are under 19 and 24% are over 60. The median household income is $152,987, which is 1.5 times the amount in the rest of Colorado. Many notable residents have lived in Highlands Ranch, including actress Keri Russell and NFL running back Christian McCaffrey.
The racial and ethnic breakdown is 85.2% white (80% non-Hispanic), 9% Hispanic or Latino, 6.1% Asian, 1.1% Black or African American, and 5.8% two or more races.
Other Highlands Ranch Demographics
- The population of residents living in Highlands Ranch, CO is exactly 51% male and 49% female.
- It's a highly educated community, with 98.6% of residents holding a high school diploma and 67.3% holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
- The foreign-born population is 7.6%
Transportation
Highlands Ranch is situated on Colorado State Highway 470, and US Route 85 also passes alongside the community's western edge. The community is generally very car-dependent, due to its suburban layout. RTD Denver also operates a bus system that makes stops in Highlands Ranch. The light rail also stops in the nearby city of Littleton, which is accessible by bus from Highlands Ranch and offers access to downtown Denver.
The Denver International Airport is northwest of downtown, about 40 miles from Highlands Ranch.
Cost of Living in Highlands Ranch CO
The cost of living is likely a significant concern if you're considering moving to Highlands Ranch. Looking into an area's cost of living index (COLI) is a reliable way to determine its affordability. It compares the cost of living in Highlands Ranch CO, to the rest of the country, with 100 representing the national average. The COLI for the Denver metro area is 112, indicating it's 12% more expensive than the rest of the United States.
The Family Budget Calculator created by the Economic Policy Institute shows that the average family of four with two adults and two kids needs to earn about $148,247 to comfortably afford the cost of living in Highlands Ranch, CO.
Typical Highlands Ranch Living Expenses:
- Loaf of bread: $4.18
- A gallon of milk: $4.87
- Carton of eggs: $4.78
- Visit to the doctor: $183.06
- A gallon of gas: $3.01
- Highlands Ranch's average monthly energy bill: $191.51
Source: Payscale
Taxes are another primary concern you may have if you're looking into living in Highlands Ranch CO. Here is a breakdown of the major taxes you can expect to pay.
- Highlands Ranch CO sales tax: The total sales tax rate in Highlands Ranch is 5%, which includes a 3% Colorado state tax, 1% Douglas County Tax, and 1% Greater Denver area tax.
- Income tax: Colorado's Income tax is assessed at a flat rate of 4.4%, meaning everyone pays the same rate regardless of how much money they make.
- Property tax: Property taxes in Douglas County are based on a percentage of the home's assessed value. Taxes are calculated by multiplying the tax rate by the property's assessed value. Douglas County’s property tax rate can change year to year, typically in December.
The cost of housing is another major concern for those considering moving to Highlands Ranch. Real estate expenses here are generally higher than the national average. However, you'll find many exciting options, from modest bungalows to multi-million-dollar estates.
Highlands Ranch CO Real Estate
Redfin shows that the median sales price of homes for sale in Highlands Ranch CO, is $707,077, and that homes stay on the market for a median of 12 days. The average price per square foot of homes for sale Highland Ranch CO is $273.
Most residents living in Highlands Ranch CO own their own homes, and only about 26% of the housing is rented out. However, those who are looking to rent will still find a range of enticing options. If home prices here seem too steep, according to RentCafe, the average rent in Highlands Ranch is $2,105 per month, which is just slightly higher than the national average.
Highlands Ranch Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Highlands Ranch
No matter where you look, living in Highlands Ranch, CO offers great weather, excellent schools, and quiet, well-maintained streets, attracting families by the hundreds. However, as in any other city, some neighborhoods are more sought-after than others. Here are some of the best places to live in Highlands Ranch.
Northridge | A Historic Highlands Ranch Neighborhood in the Heart of the Community
Northridge is a neighborhood that occupies the northern central part of the community, south of County Line Road. Home to the famous Highlands Ranch mansion, Northridge offers a rich history, multiple public parks, and a central location. Its mature trees and affordable home prices in the $500,000’s make it attractive for growing families and retirees alike.
Indigo Hills | An Affordable Highlands Ranch Neighborhood with Exclusive Amenities
Indigo Hills is a popular neighborhood in the northwest corner of Broadway and Wildcat Reserve that offers affordable homes and access to exclusive amenities through its HOA, including a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a fitness center.
The Hearth | A Quiet Highlands Ranch Neighborhood That is Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts
The Hearth is a community in the Southridge area of Highlands Ranch that offers beautiful homes, access to shopping and restaurants, and close proximity to the BackCountry Wilderness area and Daniel's Gate Park.
Sterling Ranch | A Highly Sought-After Neighborhood Offering Highlands Ranch New Homes
With home builders like Lennar Homes and Pulte Homes, Sterling Ranch is a newer neighborhood that hosts homes ranging from the low $600,000s to over $1 million. It is within 5 miles of the Denver Audubon Kingery Nature Center and Chatfield State Park, making it a great option for those seeking an active lifestyle. Sterling Ranch is close to local coffee shops like Atlas Coffee.
Other Areas to Live in Highlands Ranch
- BackCountry - Luxury homes and views of the Rocky Mountains.
- Firelight - Access to Red-Tail Park, Mountain Vista High School, and Wildcat Reserve Pkwy.
- Solano Lucent Station - Luxury apartments in Highlands Ranch CO, with a 14-foot, resort-style pool.
Highlands Ranch CO Weather & Climate
According to the Köppen Classification System, Highlands Ranch has a semi-arid high desert climate. That means four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The weather in Highlands Ranch CO is enjoyable, with temperatures typically ranging from around 22°F up to about 86°F, although in the winter, it can get as cold as 6°F, and in the summer, it can get up to 94°F. The best time to visit is typically from mid-June to early September.
Anyone considering moving to Highlands Ranch must come prepared for rain and snow. The area averages about 19 inches of rain and 78 inches of snow per year. So be sure to pack a parka and snow boots, and plenty of snow gear.
Highlands Ranch Restaurants
Despite being a quiet residential area, Highlands Ranch has many excellent restaurants serving everything from comfort food to Indian cuisine. Here are a few of the best places to eat in Highlands Ranch.
Postino is a chic wine bar with a location in Highlands Ranch, serving all types of great food, including salads, paninis, charcuterie, and shareable plates in a hip setting with a wide selection of beer and wine.
1497 Park Central Dr, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 (720) 410-8600
Highlands Indian Cuisine is the first Indian restaurant in the community. It serves a delicious selection of traditional South Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients.
9344 Dorchester St Ste#101, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 (720) 420-9374
Mici is one of the best restaurants in Highlands Ranch, CO if you're in the mood for Italian, and it offers a wide selection of authentic dishes created with handmade dough and secret family recipes.
9245 S Broadway, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 (303) 683-6424
Trestles is one of the best restaurants near Highlands Ranch CO that serves fresh seafood daily. The most talked about dishes are crab cakes, the lobster roll, and clam chowder.
880 W Happy Canyon Rd Ste 150, Castle Rock, CO 80108, (303) 663-3622
Things to Do in Highlands Ranch
Living in Highlands Ranch CO also offers easy access to various exciting attractions, from craft breweries to recreation centers to state parks. Here is a complete breakdown of the best things to do in Highlands Ranch, CO.
Top Highlands Ranch Attractions
There are tons of fun things to do in Highlands Ranch. Whether you’re looking to tee off at the legendary golf course or spend some time indoors, here are tons of attractions to check out.
- K1 Speed is a 60,000-square-foot indoor go-kart course in Highlands Ranch that is fun for birthday parties and corporate events and is one of the best things to do in Highlands Ranch with kids!
- Southridge Recreation Center: A state-of-the-art recreation center in the Southridge neighborhood that features sports courts, indoor and outdoor pools, exercise equipment, and other amenities.
- 3 Freaks Brewery: A local craft brewery serving a wide selection of home-brewed beers on tap, plus regular tours and events.
- Links Golf Course: A professional golf club in northwest Highlands Ranch with an executive-length course, PGA-certified instructors, a pro shop, a grill, and more.
Highlands Ranch Museums, Nightlife, Arts, & Entertainment Options
Its scenic beauty isn’t the only reason people are considering living in Highlands Ranch; its nightlife, entertainment, and museums are up to par, too.
- Highlands Ranch Mansion: A historic mansion perched atop a 250-acre park that offers tours, educational programs, and rentals for weddings and other special events.
- Play Street Museum: A children's museum designed to provide a safe, imaginative place for kids to play with art studios, interactive exhibits, and other family-oriented activities.
- AMC Highlands Ranch: A local movie theater showing new releases with comfortable seating, concessions, a bar, and more.
- The Lansdowne Arms - Located at 9352 Dorchester ST, Lansdowne Arms is a notable Irish pub with live music and a rowdy atmosphere most weekend nights.
Highlands Ranch Parks and Outdoor Activities
If you lead an outdoor lifestyle, living in Highlands Ranch is right for you. With more than 26 community parks, over 10,000 acres of recreational use space, and 4 community centers, you will find plenty of things to do in Highlands Ranch Colorado.
Highlands Ranch has one of the most active biking communities in the state, with the Backcountry Wilderness Area and the 26-regionally connected trail series as the main contributors to the hobby's prominence.
- Chatfield State Park: A state park centered around the Chatfield Reservoir that makes it a popular destination for hikers, bikers, fishermen, campers, picnickers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
- Civic Green Park: A lush outdoor space covered in trees that features gardens, public restrooms, and a pavilion that can fit up to 100 people. Ideal area for hiking or biking the quiet path.
- Paintbrush Park: A small community park next to the Highlands Ranch Rec Center that offers walking trails and multipurpose fields that are great for dog walking, family outings, and more.
- Redstone Park - Expansive playground with plenty of surrounding walking paths and open spaces.
- Westridge Recreation Center - One of the four community centers in Highlands Park, Westridge features indoor sports courts and a large swimming pool.
Shopping in Highlands Ranch
- Highlands Ranch Town Center: A 164,000 town center next to Civic Green Park with popular retailers and restaurants like Home Depot and Cold Stone Creamery.
- Highlands Ranch II: Another one of the top shopping centers is located on the opposite side of Highlands Ranch, offering a mix of local service businesses and large retail chains.
Aside from the natural attractions and man-made amenities of Highlands Ranch, you will find a plethora of community events upon moving here. Yoga in the Park is free, and the weekly farmers market is a great place to meet new neighbors!
Map of Highlands Ranch Things to Do
Discover all the fun things to do in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, with this map.
Sports
Highlands Ranch does not have any major sports teams. However, there are many pro sports teams in Denver. Denver is home to the Nuggets in the NBA, the Broncos in the NFL, and the Colorado Rockies in the MLB. For those seeking amateur and community leagues, the Highlands Ranch Community Association hosts several exciting sports for children and adults, including archery, basketball, fencing, and martial arts.
Highlands Ranch Crime Rate
Living in Highlands Ranch, CO is known for its safe, family-oriented atmosphere. While the FBI does have data for Highlands Ranch specifically, we will reference nearby Littleton to provide you with an overall idea of its crime rates.
Littleton has a crime rate of 3,496 per 100,000 people, which is 4% lower than the national average. Its violent crime rate is 50.3% lower than the state's, with 245 incidents per 100,000 people. Littleton’s property crime rate is 3,251 per 100,000 people, meaning residents experience 3.3% more property crime than in the average city in Colorado.
Argurisks' algorithm predicts a crime risk of only 10% when living in Highlands Ranch CO.
Here is a look at how the Highlands Ranch CO, crime rate compares to other Colorado cities:
- Denver: 102% higher
- Lakewood: 87% higher
- Boulder: 35% higher
So, compared to other major cities in the surrounding areas, Highlands Ranch is very safe. The Highlands Ranch Substation of the Douglas County Sheriff's Department maintains community safety with assistance from 10 officers and 3 civilian staff members.
Jobs Highland Ranch
Highlands Ranch has a strong economy supported by many top companies. Douglas County has an unemployment rate of 3.7%, which is lower than the rest of metro Denver, Colorado, and the United States.
The main industries in the area are professional and business services, education and health services, financial activities, retail trade, hospitality and leisure, and construction. Notable companies headquartered in Highlands Ranch include UDR Inc., UCHealth Highlands Ranch, Peterson's, and Visa's Operations Center. The Denver Tech Center is also just a quick drive.
Major employers in Denver South include:
According to Payscale, jobs in Highlands Ranch pay an average salary of $79,000 per year. Employment seekers will find a range of great Highlands Ranch jobs, from dental assistants to preschool teachers.
Highlands Ranch Schools
Living in Highlands Ranch also offers access to some of Colorado's best schools. The Douglas County School District has more than 20 elementary schools, seven middle schools, and six high schools in Highlands Ranch.
El Dorado, Heritage, and Stone Mountain are generally considered the area's top-rated schools for elementary-aged students living in Highlands Ranch. STEM School Highlands Ranch is the top Highlands Ranch high school and ranks within the top 100 charter schools in the US. According to US News and World Report, it also ranks #1 in Douglas County, #6 in the Denver metro area, and #12 in the state of Colorado. It has a graduation rate of 93% and an AP participation rate of 73%. Mount Vista High School is another great option for those seeking a highly-rated (91.4/100 by US News) high school for their teenagers.
Mile High Academy, Arma DEI Academy, and Cherry Hills Christian School (a Christian, faith-based school) are a few notable private schools in Highlands Ranch, CO. The Metropolitan State University of Denver and Emily Griffith Technical College are also close by in downtown Denver.
If you're looking for a library in Highlands Ranch, there is a Douglas County Library branch on Ridgeline Blvd.
Common Questions People Ask About Living in Highlands Ranch CO
What Is the HOA Fee When Living in Highlands Ranch CO?
Most homes in Highlands Ranch are part of the Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA), which charges quarterly HOA dues. The standard assessment varies over time but is generally around $170–$180 per quarter for most residential properties. HOA fees help maintain more than 2,000 acres of open space, community events, trails, and four recreation centers. Some neighborhoods like Gleneagles Village and The Retreat may also have additional sub-association fees, so buyers should confirm costs before purchasing a home.
Is Highlands Ranch Colorado a Good Place to Live?
Highlands Ranch is widely considered a desirable place to live because of its highly rated Douglas County School District schools, extensive parks and trail system, and convenient access to both Denver and the Denver Tech Center. Residents have access to more than 70 miles of trails, four recreation centers, and numerous shopping and dining options. While housing costs are higher than the national average, many people choose Highlands Ranch for its amenities, outdoor recreation, access to C-470 and Santa Fe Drive, and family-friendly neighborhoods.
Is Highlands Ranch a City?
No, Highlands Ranch is not an incorporated city. It is a census-designated place (CDP) located in Douglas County, Colorado. Local services are provided through Douglas County, while the Highlands Ranch Community Association manages many neighborhood amenities, parks, and recreational facilities. Despite having a population of more than 100,000 residents, Highlands Ranch does not have a mayor or city council like an incorporated municipality.
What Is Highlands Ranch Known for?
Highlands Ranch is known for its master-planned communities, extensive network of more than 70 miles of trails, over 2,000 acres of protected open space, and four recreation centers operated by the Highlands Ranch Community Association. The community is also recognized for its proximity to the Denver Tech Center and the highly rated Douglas County schools. The family-oriented neighborhoods provide easy access to parks like Civic Green Park and shopping.
How Many Houses Are in Highlands Ranch CO?
Highlands Ranch contains approximately 38,000 housing units, the majority of which are single-family homes, along with townhomes and condominiums. The community has grown steadily since development began in the 1980s and now supports a population of more than 100,000 residents.
Let Homegrown Movers Relocate You to Highlands Ranch
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