If you are thinking about moving to Highlands Ranch, you are among many who have expressed interest in the suburb.
This vibrant community in Colorado has become one of the most enticing choices for families, professionals, and seniors.
The town has a great sense of diversity in what it offers a potential and current resident.
With everything from top-notch schools to great dining, job opportunities, and recreation centers, it is a hard spot to pass up.
Before you start packing up, there are quite a few things you will want to know so you can seamlessly mix with the locals.
This will help to make for a smoother transition and a comfortable settling-in!
Living in Highlands Ranch, CO: The Essentials
Those moving to Highlands Ranch have likely already taken a quick or more in-depth peek behind the curtain.
When relocating, everyone is looking for the same benefits: good schools, affordable housing, optimal job options, etc.
This is the best of Colorado, with a blend of city lifestyle and natural vibes, and it is located in the suburbs.
Those getting ready to start a family for the first time, finding a spot that offers a close commute to the city, or just looking for a change of pace will find all of the essentials in Highlands Ranch.
A Closer Look at the Star of Douglas County
This isn’t just another suburb; it has developed quite a reputation in Douglas County.
Moving and storage companies are trekking back and forth, moving residents from all over the Centennial State and the country into the city.
It currently has a population of approximately 101,000 people.
Highlands Ranch was founded back in 1981 with the purpose of providing a better quality of life to residents.
It is only 19 miles from Denver, and reliable infrastructure is present for multiple modes of transportation throughout the metro area.
They supply beautiful homes, condos, and apartments for living.
All of which are surrounded by over 2,000 acres of open space, stunning views of the Rockies, and recreation.
Highlands Ranch has genuinely established itself as a standout community.
Every Neighborhood Boasts Its Own Personality
The city details are where you will find the perfect place to live.
The comfort found in each neighborhood is a large part of what makes Highlands Ranch so special.
There is no one right place for everyone, and while the area is known for being cookie-cutter, it has a lot of personality.
Those who are drawn to tree-lined streets or more open spaces can find it here.
From Northridge to BackCountry, there is something for every kind of person.
No matter what kind of lifestyle you are looking for, there is a place where you and your family will fit in!
What Highlands Ranch Offers Newcomers
Heading to a new place expends a lot of energy, but there are loads of benefits to moving to the suburbs, especially for those relocating to Highlands Ranch, CO.
This is a great relief to newcomers to the town and even those new to Colorado.
From the second you arrive in this suburb, you feel an immediate sense of cohesive community, gorgeous neighborhoods, and views of downtown and the mountains.
These things have defined the area and helped to create what the locals call home today.
It is amazing to be outside of Denver while still providing easy access to all of the hot spots in the Centennial State.
From good food and fun to outdoor activities, you will find an extremely wide variety of options to upgrade your lifestyle.
Those seeking a quieter place outside the city to raise a family and young professionals looking for a new commute option will find a welcoming environment in Highlands Ranch!
A Safe Community with a Friendly Vibe
One leading reason people choose to live in Highlands Ranch is the promise of safety, security, and friendly neighbors.
The area has been consistently rated as one of the safest in Colorado, providing potential residents with peace of mind.
There is no need to worry about walking alone in the evenings in your neighborhood.
While precautions should always be taken, there is a strong sense of protection with local government and law enforcement.
People seem to work together to maintain this community and further make improvements to the region.
Highlands Ranch is a Great Place for Families and Kids
For those with a family, having a safe place for the children is often the most important thing.
Having a safe community is a non-negotiable.
Parents can feel confident when they send their kids off biking to school or walking to a friend’s house.
This safety plays a significant role in what makes Highlands Ranch such a standout place to live.
Beyond the local law enforcement agencies, community members work together to create watch systems to bring a larger sense of security.
With these kinds of conditions, there is no sense in living downtown!
Crime Statistics in Highlands Ranch, Colorado
While the city is considered safe, knowing and understanding the crime landscape is essential before you move.
The crime rates are very low throughout Highlands Ranch.
Things will vary depending on which neighborhood you live in, but the Southwest part of the town is considered to be the safest.
Locals never report any significant problems.
However, it is not perfect.
- Violent crime. This is reported to be much lower than the national average and lower than the majority of Colorado, with only 2.3 incidents reported in 1,000 residents annually.
- Property crime. These crimes are more prevalent, with burglaries, theft incidents, and reported vehicle theft. However, only approximately 16.7 incidents were reported per 1,000 residents.
Top-Rated Education with Douglas County School District
Along with safety, education is a top priority within the community.
This is seen throughout Colorado and echoed in Highlands Ranch.
Quality schools and even university options are extremely important, and knowledge is necessary before making a move.
DCSD is a massive district serving well over 62,000 students, dedicated to creating safe learning spaces for kids anywhere throughout their educational careers.
Residents highly rate the district’s schools for their high academic performance, amazing teachers, and college readiness.
You’ll Love Living in a Place That Offers a Fabulous Education
Whether you are raising little ones or bringing teenagers along, the top-notch education offered here is hard to beat.
Most residents boast about their options with plenty of opportunities within the public school spheres and private or alternative settings.
The schools are known not just for their academics but also for their sports, arts, and leadership programs.
Highlands Ranch presents an array of opportunities, which is evident in the pride the community members have in their schools.
This brings a great sense of stability.
When you head to Highlands Ranch, learning is celebrated, and your kids will have all the tools available to reach their full potential.
University & Higher Education Opportunities Nearby
Speaking of the future, higher ed and universities are close by!
You won’t need to stray too far from your neighborhood to find a college of your liking.
There is a convenient variety of higher education institutions.
If you have teens who are preparing to graduate soon, or you are looking for additional options for yourself, you can look forward to any of the following schools:
- Arapahoe Community College. This is right around the corner of downtown Littleton. It is a great place to gain an associate’s degree and specialty certificates and start your prerequisites.
- Regis. Regis is a private university in Denver that provides options for those pursuing graduate or undergraduate programs. There are over 130 degree pathways to choose from!
- University of Denver. DU is only 25 minutes away from Highlands Ranch. It is an easy commute to the next or first round of college courses.
- MSU Denver. Located in downtown Denver, this is the perfect college for those pursuing flexibility in their education. Offering both graduate and undergraduate degrees, they cater to working people and those looking to continue their education.
A Quick Drive to Downtown Denver
Those preparing for local or long-distance moving will always need to evaluate possible commutes and the area around Highlands Ranch.
While you may live in one community, venturing out into neighboring ones provides a sense of adventure.
Highlands Ranch is a short commute to downtown Denver and its surrounding areas.
Those who need to commute for work, entertainment, or other reasons will get there in about 20 to 30 minutes.
You can take C470 or I25 to arrive at your final destination!
There is also easy access utilizing the light rail with the County Line or Littleton/Mineral station as two hubs in the area.
Close Proximity to Denver International Airport
Proximity to the airport is particularly of interest to professionals and those who need to fly frequently.
Highlands Ranch supplies a convenient road right to DIA!
C470 is the ideal road to take, but there are additional routes should you run into a traffic jam.
It can generally take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes to get there.
Whether you are jetting off for a family vacation or heading to the airport every week to travel for work, having it nearby helps reduce stress.
Easy Access to the Rocky Mountains
Living in Colorado means spending weekends in the mountains, living life outdoors and out loud.
While there are plenty of options to get outside in Highlands Ranch, the Rocky Mountains are always calling.
You can get there in less than an hour for trail hiking, a weekend camping trip, skiing, or snowboarding.
The outdoor escapes from Evergreen to Breckenridge are easy to reach.
It is an ideal setup for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities while still enjoying the comforts of suburban life.
Recreation Centers That Go Beyond the Gym in Highlands Ranch, CO
Having fun in the city you live in is extremely important for a good quality of life.
Luckily, Highlands Ranch is a community full of residents who take recreation options very seriously.
The area has four main rec centers, alongside all retail options throughout the region.
You can’t pass up these recreation options!
There is a rec center for each part of the town.
- Northridge Rec Center. Located off Broadway, this location provides tennis, an indoor and outdoor pool, a full fitness studio, and a lovely climbing wall.
- Southridge Rec Center. Perched on McArthur Ranch Road, there is a whole mountain auditorium with a focus on the arts and fitness.
- Eastridge Rec Center. Off the eastern side of Highlands Ranch, you can find just about any kind of recreation you want!
- Westridge Rec Center. Located off Foothills Canyon Road, you will find indoor and outdoor sports, pool options, and a fully loaded fitness studio.
Outdoor Activities in the Highlands Ranch Area
Those looking to recreate outside will find their own kind of sanctuary in Highlands Ranch’s parks and open spaces.
There are 26 public parks to enjoy with your family, and now over 2,600 acres of open space.
You can choose from 70 miles of trails throughout the area as well.
Getting up and going for a nightly stroll with your family, friends, or neighbors is easy.
This is one of the simple joys of living in Highlands Ranch!
Great Sips at Coffee Shops & Socials
If you are currently considering moving to Highlands Ranch, food and drinks are likely another thing you are pondering.
Residents can find plenty of cozy spots to visit with friends or family, find a quiet corner to get work done, and even play board games.
Local coffee stores are places where people like to gather for events, live music, and open mic nights!
Some of the most popular in the area are as follows:
- Enchanted Grounds. This eclectic spot combines coffee with board games, Dungeons & Dragons meet-ups, and more! They have special events for the community on certain weeknights and weekends.
- Lost Coffee. This place offers an actual craft coffee experience. With accessible indoor and outdoor seating, it is an ideal place to grab a brew on the go or sit and visit.
- Brew Tea Bar. For those residents looking to get their caffeine fix another way, there are lovely tea bars. This spot specializes in traditional herbal tea, Taiwanese tea, and Boba!
Every Current Resident Loves the Restaurants & Eateries
Ask any current resident, and they will tell you all about their favorite dining spots.
There is a lot to choose from throughout Highlands Ranch!
From family-owned bistros to chain options, you will find something that offers a range of cuisines to satisfy any craving.
- Postino Highlands Ranch. A popular spot for happy hour and meals. They are serving up soups, salads, sandwiches, and lots of good wine.
- Los Dos Potrillos. This family-owned business is passing down a tradition of serving premium Mexican food to Highlands Ranch residents.
- The Egg. This is one of the area’s most excellent spots for breakfast and brunch. You can order everything from smothered breakfast burritos to chicken fried steak plates.
- HashTAG. A delicious breakfast spot with a set focus on hash browns. The chef is focused on providing diverse options for those with dietary restrictions or for little ones who are picky eaters.
Shopping Centers Galore Providing Residents Options
Do you like to shop?
You can find retail shops on every corner you turn.
Between running basic errands and a full day of clothes shopping down at Park Meadows in Lone Tree, you can find everything you want nearby.
From the Highlands Ranch Shopping Center to the Shops at Highland Walk, shopping options are easily accessible throughout Highlands Ranch.
A Comfortable Cost of Living Within the Denver Metro Area
Most people head to the suburbs, hiring professional packers in Highlands Ranch to help with the logistics in hopes of lower prices.
Highlands Ranch provides everything from luxury housing options to more affordable apartments.
This is one of the most significant aspects of moving in.
There are options for all different budgets in safe, comfortable, and well-manicured neighborhoods.
For new residents coming into Highlands Ranch looking for their very first apartment or a lovely forever home, there is a place that will cater to their needs.
Purchasing a House in Highlands Ranch, Colorado
Understanding the housing market in Highlands Ranch begins with knowing that each neighborhood differs greatly.
The median home price is around $669,000.
This will vary depending on the neighborhood, home size, amenities, etc.
This is coming in a bit higher than the median price in Denver.
However, Colorado’s market has seen many fluctuations.
It is critical to set your budget ahead and take some time to explore different areas of Highlands Ranch.
This will help to set you up for success in locating a property that suits you and your family.
Apartment Living in this Thriving Denver Suburb
Apartments in Highlands Ranch offer elevated living and amenities.
Many have gated-style communities that provide tons of peace and privacy.
The typical rental rate for a one-bedroom is around $2,000 to $2,200.
Most of your options are modern, with different layouts, floor plans, etc.
You have a ton of flexibility with all of the options available.
For young professionals commuting for work, new couples, and even families, there are plenty of places you can call your next home.
Tips for Moving to the Town of Highlands Ranch
Whether you are looking for long or short distance movers near me, the entire process is exciting when heading to Highlands Ranch.
Like with any relocation, organization and planning will go a long way.
There is so much to do!
Everything from choosing the right neighborhood for your family to enrolling in schools contributes to creating the next chapter of your life.
Here are some practical tips to help you settle into your new house with greater ease and confidence.
Spend a Few Months Preparing for the Move Itself
As you begin the search for reliable movers near me, it is crucial to remember the importance of planning ahead.
When you are moving to Highlands Ranch or anywhere in Colorado, preparation can help to reduce stress and anxiety throughout the process and upon arrival.
The more time you have to spare, the easier everything is.
Follow these guidelines to allow enough lead time for a comfortable moving project:
- Local moves require one to two months in advance. Speak with your movers at that time to allow for simplistic scheduling and enough time for decluttering beforehand.
- Long-distance moves require two to three months’ advance booking. The longer you travel, the more time you will need to prepare.
- Cross-country relocation projects require at least three to four months. These are the most trying moves as you head to a brand-new place. Allow a lot of time between your projected move date and booking to ensure a stress-free move.
Get to Know Your Neighbors; It Won’t Be Hard
One of the most charming aspects of Highlands Ranch is the friendly and comfortable atmosphere.
The environment provides stability, new social options, and security.
Making new friends is a massive part of integrating into your new community.
The locals generally will try to reach out before you do!
Take the time to get outside and meet those around you.
Consider throwing a dinner party with families in the neighborhood or a play date with other children in the area.
Time Your Move with the Colorado Weather in Mind
When creating your pivotal moving checklist, don’t leave out the importance of scheduling things around the possibility of bad weather.
Extreme and surprising weather patterns are something Coloradans are no stranger to.
The population of Highlands Ranch lives in a place where things are not as bad as those in the mountains will experience but still remain prepared.
You should always expect some unexpected weather.
Consider the seasons, the possibility of hail in the springtime and heavy snow in the winter months.
These things can significantly impact your move.
Plan for Easy Access to Downtown Denver
Ask any current resident of Highlands Ranch, and they will tell you how easy it is to get to Denver.
The city will always offer amenities different from what you typically see in the suburbs.
Denver is only a 20- —to 30-minute car ride from Highlands Ranch, and you can plan daytime or nightlife activities with your new friends.
Spend a day at the Botanic Gardens or sign up for a ghost tour at Cheeseman Park and explore new adventures in the capital city!
Keep Things Simple, Don’t Overcomplicate the Move
The final but most essential aspect of moving to Highlands Ranch is leaning on the professionals.
This is the easiest way to simplify things for the change.
When you have a team to rely on, the general logistics and usual complications of relocating will suddenly dissipate.
There is no use in adding more stress to your life.
Trust in the pros to walk you through the entrance and transition into this next chapter.
FAQS About Moving to Highlands Ranch, CO
Questions will arise and linger when finding the right community to live in.
Before booking your own personalized pack and move services, consider some of the questions your neighbors and others have asked about Highlands Ranch.
From general housing costs to work options, we have rounded up some of the most frequently asked questions about the region.
These are local, authentic insights into everyone.
What are some of the best neighborhood options in Highlands Ranch?
Highlands Ranch is a great place to build your own community with neighbors.
Finding the right residents to mix with and a smaller discourse sector to connect with is critical.
This all begins with locating your home or apartment in a good neighborhood.
The following are considered the best options:
- Northridge. This is right off County Line Road, which also runs through Centennial, Lone Tree, and Littleton. It is surrounded by open spaces and lots of parks for those interested in outdoor activities.
- Eastridge. This community is just south of C470 and offers an array of gorgeous homes. It is known for being a place that helps families flourish and is popular for those with kids.
- Verona. This area offers a magical view of the Denver skyline and the mountains. It provides tons of options and trails for walking, hiking, biking, etc. There is a ton of diversity in housing options in this community.
- Backcounty. This is one of the more luxurious neighborhoods in Highlands Ranch. Those with more flexibility in their budget may want to take a look at housing options in this area. It has excellent schools, immediate access to dining and retail shops, and plenty of options to explore nature.
What are the best places to work in the area?
Having a lucrative and fulfilling career option in Highlands Ranch is essential.
The average current resident of the city maintains a salary of approximately $89,000 annually.
The community has many opportunities for career growth, expansion, and change.
Most residents will find work in science or technology.
The DTC neighborhood is right next door, with booming options in tech, general professional environments, and start-ups.
There are also plenty of healthcare, insurance, and finance residents.
Don’t forget the drive to Denver isn’t far, and since the commute isn’t bad, many within the population work in the city.
Is Highlands Ranch, CO, an expensive place to live?
While Highlands Ranch is considered one of the best places to live when looking towards the suburbs of Denver, CO, it is also not the cheapest.
For many, everything sounds great until the pricing throws them off.
There are plenty of upscale neighborhoods that are considered rather expensive.
However, the city has diversified options in housing and apartments.
The housing cost is still significantly higher than the national average and exceeds Denver’s average.
While this may be a turn-off to some, you can expect to get everything and more for your investment in the move to Highlands Ranch.
Are there trails in the area for hiking and running?
The mix of nature and urban living is another fantastic benefit to living in Highlands Ranch, CO.
The area has many open spaces, parks, and trails for whatever your heart desires.
If you are hoping to get up for an early morning bike ride or a sunset run, there are plenty of trail systems to choose from.
Some of the most popular are as follows:
- Big Dry Creek Trail. This long route is considered a pretty easy path for walking, biking, or running. It is 5.1 miles in length and usually takes around 2 hours to complete.
- Dad Clark Loop. This is easy to do with the family being just over a 1-mile loop. It is mostly paved throughout the trail.
- DOT Segment 8. Located in the Douglas County open space, boasting a 6.5-mile loop, this one is moderately difficult with lots of foot traffic.
What is the weather like throughout the year in Highlands Ranch, Colorado?
The Highlands Ranch population will always get a full range of experiences through the season.
This offers a little diversity for everyone, depending on what kind of conditions you enjoy.
The winters are similar to the rest of Colorado, bringing dry air and occasional snowfalls.
Spring is actually when the largest snowfall occurs, so don’t plant your flowers too early in the season.
Summers are generally sunny and stay warm with a very low humidity rate.
The entire region is mostly sunny throughout the year, and you can expect blue skies on almost any day of the week!
What are some of the best schools in Highlands Ranch?
Douglas County School District stands out for education in Colorado.
It is no secret that they boast some of the best options for students in primary or secondary school.
Highlands Ranch has become a popular choice for living in part because of the schools offered in the area.
Below are some of the best-rated options for kids and teens:
- Rock Canyon High School. This is the #1 school in the Douglas County district. It remains one of the best places to send your kid in preparation for college, with highly trained teachers, amazing extracurricular activities, and an experienced administration.
- STEM School Highlands Ranch. This is a fabulous option for students looking for schools in their areas of interest. Kids deserve to have a hand in their education! This STEM school is rated as one of the best in Highlands Ranch!
- Stone Mountain Elementary. While serving a smaller population, parents are fighting to get into the feeder neighborhood options. It is ranked # 2 in Douglas County for elementary school settings.
- Heritage Elementary School. A great place to send your kids to start their school career. Here, you will find smaller class sizes, high test scores, and diverse extracurricular and club options.
Get Your Family to the Best Town in Colorado
Those who have been searching for a place that offers a picture-perfect blend of rest and relaxation, coupled with a lively and active population, will find it in Highlands Ranch.
From the low crime rates with comfy neighborhoods to all the joys of nature, the town offers more than you could ask for.
It is more than just a place within the Denver metro area; it offers singles and parents with children the ability to find a balance between the city and the suburbs.
Whether you are planning a move from the mountains of Colorado or across the country, amazing Highlands Ranch movers can help.
Start packing your bags; it is time to discover why this corner of the Mile High is so loved!
Contact Our Moving Team to Help with Your Relocation to Highlands Ranch
Denver Moving Group is a high-quality Highlands Ranch moving company providing local, long-distance, and cross-country moves to the area.
Our team of moving experts knows the neighborhood well and is extensively experienced in the services we provide.
From packing to unloading, we will safely get you to your new place.
Our top priority is to bring every person we work with a smooth relocation experience.
Contact our team of moving specialists to get started with a free quote for your new home in Highlands Ranch.
We look forward to doing the hard work for you so you can settle in totally stress-free.
What Our Previous Customers Have to Say
You don’t just need to take our word for it; there are plenty of factors that contribute to our positive reputation.
Hear first-hand client-moving stories from those who have already journeyed to Highlands Ranch, CO.
From their comprehensive moving services to the improvements in everyday living, this is what current residents and families have to say about moving with our locally owned business.
We Are Ecstatic About Our New Home & How Simple the Move Was
“Our family was blown away by the help we received in getting to our new house in Highlands Ranch, Colorado.
We decided to move from the city and were stressed about the process.
The entire process was organized and easy from beginning to end.
We can confidently say that this move was one of the best things we did and with the best movers in the Denver metro area!”
Jenna & Mark T. Highlands Ranch, CO
The Locals All Referred Us to This Moving Company for Good Reason
“Our friends that currently live in Highlands Ranch referred us to Denver Moving Group for our relocation services.
They were right about their level of care and professionalism.
The moving team paid close attention to every detail of the process, which really simplified things for us and the kids.
We greatly appreciate their help and will be using them should we ever have to leave this lovely city!”
The Erickson Family Highlands Ranch, CO
Our Moving Crew Was Caring and Quick Throughout the Process
“We have family in the Lone Tree area and were looking for a place close by, which ended up being Highlands Ranch.
Between the energy and location, it was the perfect place for us.
Denver Moving Group helped get the move done quickly!
Their movers have a sense of care and consideration that we have never experienced with any other company.”
Will & Jade L. Highlands Ranch, CO
Totally Stress-Free Moving Services in Highlands Ranch, CO
“I have moved quite a few times across the country, and it is always a wild ride.
I wasn’t looking forward to the process, only the destination.
However, thanks to our crew, this move was far from what I usually expect.
The team was totally dedicated to taking all the stress off my shoulders!”
Renee M. Highlands Ranch, CO
Extremely Happy With These Professional Packing and Moving Services
“We are delighted with the packing and moving services we received on the journey to Highlands Ranch.
An out-of-state move caused enough nerves for ourselves and the children, so we are thankful to have had company to calm them down.
The moving crew was courteous and moved quickly.
They helped with all of our packing and even provided storage for a short period of time.
The process was worth every penny!”
Mark & Jenn N. Highlands Ranch, CO