Highlands Ranch
Amenity-focused master-planned community
Why People Move Here
Highlands Ranch is Colorado's largest community development — 105,000+ residents with a community association that manages 4 rec centers, 2,000+ acres of open space, and year-round programming. It's the amenity-maximizer choice.
Key Statistics
Data sourced from census records, school district reports, and local transit authorities.
Commute Times
School Districts
Douglas County RE-1
A−#5 in Colorado
- Rock Canyon HS — A, #9 in Colorado
- Mountain Vista HS — A, strong athletics
- ThunderRidge HS — A−, STEM focus
- Douglas County RE-1 · Highest median income in district
FAQ — Highlands Ranch
What are the school ratings in Highlands Ranch?
Highlands Ranch is served by Douglas County RE-1, rated A− by Niche and ranked #5 in Colorado. Rock Canyon HS ranks #9 in Colorado, Mountain Vista HS ranks #17, and STEM School ranks #14. Many residents cite schools as the #1 reason for choosing Highlands Ranch. The district has the highest median household income among DCSD communities. Note: district boundaries vary — verify enrollment eligibility by address.
How long is the commute from Highlands Ranch to Denver?
Highlands Ranch is approximately 18 miles south of downtown Denver via I-25 and C-470. The off-peak drive to downtown is 24–30 minutes by driving to the County Line light rail station. The commute to the Denver Tech Center (DTC) is a key advantage at just 10–15 minutes. Highlands Ranch has no direct light rail service — residents drive to the County Line E Line station.
What is the median home price in Highlands Ranch?
As of 2026, the median home price in Highlands Ranch is approximately $675K–$703K, with premium properties reaching $800K–$860K. Pricing reflects the community’s extensive amenities, top-rated schools, and proximity to DTC.
What outdoor recreation is available in Highlands Ranch?
The Backcountry Wilderness Area offers 8,200 acres of open space with 26 miles of singletrack mountain biking trails. The Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) manages 4 recreation centers totaling 329,000 square feet, with pools, climbing walls, batting cages, and archery. Over 70 miles of community trails connect all neighborhoods. The annual HRCA assessment is $684/year ($171/quarter).
What are the crime statistics in Highlands Ranch?
Highlands Ranch’s violent crime rate is 2.3 per 1,000 residents and the property crime rate is 16.7 per 1,000. These rates are below both state and national averages. The overall crime trend has been stable.
What is the cost of living in Highlands Ranch?
Highlands Ranch’s cost of living index is approximately 143.6 (national average = 100), or about 44% above the national average. The effective property tax rate is roughly 0.52%–0.63% (Douglas County). As an unincorporated community, the base sales tax is 5.0% (state 2.9% + county 1% with no city tax). Colorado has a flat 4.4% state income tax.
What dining and shopping options are in Highlands Ranch?
Highlands Ranch has 80+ restaurants centered around Town Center. Highlights: • Old Blinking Light — American with Southwestern influences • Nick-N-Willy’s — local pizza chain founded in Highlands Ranch • Indulge Bistro & Wine Bar • 3 Freaks Brewery, Grist Brewing, and Downhill Brewing nearby • Highlands Ranch Farmers Market (summer Sundays) • Town Center shops and dining district
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