Highlands Ranch in Douglas County, Colorado is one of the most populated communities in the United States with an estimated population of over 70,900 residents. This census-designated place (CDP) is spread across 23.5 square miles and has a population density of about 3,015.4 people per square mile. Highlands Ranch is characterized by a mixed racial makeup of Whites, Native Americans, African Americans, Pacific Islanders, Asians and Latinos or Hispanics. Highlands Ranch CO real estate remains steady and strong, with many out of state and Colorado residents wanting to move there.
In the earlier days Highlands Ranch was a major hunting region for the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho Indians before it was taken over as Spanish territory during the mid-1500s. As a part of the Louisiana Purchase of 1803 the area was sold to United States. Initial developments of the area were rather slow. Highlands Ranch’s first homes were built in 1981, and Highlands Ranch real estate was born. The State also built the SH470 which opened in 1985. Residents had to drive many miles, usually to Littleton, to buy the basics such as groceries or get medical care. In 1982, Highlands Ranch had its first public school, the Northridge Elementary. The same year also witnessed the completion of the Northridge Recreation Center, which is an athletic club available to all homeowners in Highlands Ranch.
The city has seen a rapid development in the last 25 years. Following its acquisition by Shea Homes, the community has continued to grow with major corporations like Lucent Technologies setting up their headquarters in the city. The Highlands Ranch Public Library and the Highlands Ranch Chamber of Commerce were established in the year 2000. In 2006, Highlands Ranch celebrated its 25th anniversary with a population of 86,000. Highlands Ranch is often referred to as the “bedroom community” of Denver, many residents live in Highlands Ranch but commute to Denver or the Denver Technological Center for work. Highlands Ranch is characterized by a rich historic past, great wildlife and a host of recreation and entertainment activities. It is a planned community offering great quality of life with loads of recreational and leisurely opportunities. Contact a local Highlands Ranch realtor if you are interested in learning more about this great community.
