Highlands Ranch
Living in Highlands Ranch, Colorado
Living in Highlands Ranch means four rec centers, miles of trails, and some of the best schools in Colorado. Highlands Ranch sits along C-470 about 13 miles south of downtown Denver. Even better, the community was planned from the start around parks and open space.
Overall, Highlands Ranch is home to about 105,000 residents, which makes it Colorado’s largest unincorporated community. In fact, the first homes went up in 1981, and today the community includes roughly 37,000 homes.
Homes in Highlands Ranch
You will find nearly every kind of home here. For example, there are condos, townhomes, family homes, and luxury homes in neighborhoods like Gleneagles and The Retreat. As a result, buyers at almost every price point can find a fit.
Rec Centers, Trails, and the Backcountry
The Highlands Ranch Community Association runs four recreation centers: Northridge, Southridge, Eastridge, and Westridge. In addition, about 70 miles of paved trails connect the neighborhoods. Best of all, the 8,200-acre Backcountry Wilderness Area offers more than 25 miles of trails, archery, and horse programs.
Parks, the Mansion, and Events
The historic Highlands Ranch Mansion hosts events all year, including the fall Pumpkin Festival. Meanwhile, Civic Green Park and Highland Heritage Regional Park are local favorites. In addition, Town Center hosts a Sunday farmers market from April through October. Golfers also enjoy the DU Golf Club at Highlands Ranch.
Coffee, Dining, and Shopping
Local spots are easy to find. For example, Wild Blue Coffee and Enchanted Grounds are popular for coffee. For dinner, Old Blinking Light serves New Mexican favorites. In addition, grocery stores sit in every part of the community, and Park Meadows mall is only minutes away.
Horse Riding and Equestrian Options
Horse lovers have more options than you might expect. For example, the Backcountry Wilderness Area has horse corrals with riding lessons and trail rides. In addition, if you want horses at home, nearby Sedalia and Franktown offer acreage properties.
Living in Highlands Ranch: Schools
Highlands Ranch is in the Douglas County School District. High schools include Highlands Ranch, Mountain Vista, ThunderRidge, and Rock Canyon. In addition, charter options include STEM School Highlands Ranch and SkyView Academy.
Living in Highlands Ranch: The Commute
C-470 runs right through the community. As a result, the Denver Tech Center is about 15 to 25 minutes away, and downtown Denver is about 30 to 40 minutes. In addition, light rail stations at Mineral and Lincoln are close by.
Water and Utilities
Highlands Ranch Water, formerly Centennial Water & Sanitation, provides water and sewer. Meanwhile, the Highlands Ranch Metro District maintains roads and parks.
Covenants and HOA Documents
The Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) enforces the covenants and runs the rec centers. Before you buy, review the governing documents:
- HRCA Community Declaration
- HRCA Residential Improvement Guidelines
- HRCA Recreation Rules and Regulations
- All HRCA governing documents
Highlands Ranch FAQs
Where is Highlands Ranch, Colorado?
Highlands Ranch sits along C-470 in northern Douglas County, about 13 miles south of downtown Denver. It uses ZIPs 80126, 80129, and 80130.
How big is Highlands Ranch?
Highlands Ranch had about 105,600 residents in the 2020 Census. In fact, it is the largest unincorporated community in Colorado, with roughly 37,000 homes.
What amenities does Highlands Ranch offer?
The Highlands Ranch Community Association runs four full-service recreation centers and about 70 miles of paved trails. In addition, residents can use the 8,200-acre Backcountry Wilderness Area, with more than 25 miles of trails and horse programs.
What are the HOA dues in Highlands Ranch?
HRCA dues were $171 per quarter in 2025, and some neighborhoods such as Gleneagles and The Retreat have separate assessments. Always confirm current dues for a specific home.
Are there horse facilities in Highlands Ranch?
Yes. The Backcountry Wilderness Area has horse corrals with riding lessons and trail rides. In addition, horse property is available nearby in Sedalia and Franktown.
What schools serve Highlands Ranch?
Highlands Ranch is in the Douglas County School District. High schools include Highlands Ranch, Mountain Vista, ThunderRidge, and Rock Canyon. In addition, charters include STEM School Highlands Ranch and SkyView Academy.
Get in Touch
If Highlands Ranch sounds like the right fit, let’s talk. As a Douglas County REALTOR, I can help you find the right home here and know what to look for in this area. You can reach me at:
Mobile: 303.704.8224
Email: VIP(at)joanpratt(dotted)com
Website: www.JoanPratt.com
Office Phone: 720.506.3001
Office Address: 755 Maleta Lane, Ste 204, Castle Rock, CO
Let’s make your dream of living in Highlands Ranch a reality!