Update on my feelings of Highlands Ranch
-
9/24/2007
I received an email from "D & J" from Utah wondering if my feelings have changed about Highlands Ranch since last year. (There was incorrect contact information, so I will post my reply here.) Since last year, my feelings about Highlands Ranch have only continued to improve. I am more attached to this place than ever before!
Yes, the cost of living is slightly higher than you'll find in other places, but you get what you pay for in terms of: location; housing options (every type of housing is available here); roadways/sidewalks; enviornment maintenance; recreation centers; open space trails; public/private golf courses; library; shopping; entertainment; different religions; extremely low crime rates; and quality people. In my opinion, it's ALL worth it! (Of course that's up to everyone to decide for themselves.) The extracurricular activites for kids tend to be a little higher in price, but the quality of the programs make up for it.
The school system here in Highlands Ranch is wonderful, but I know there are some people who disagree with me. Anyone can check out the Douglas County School District website (www.dcsdk12.org) to compare CSAP scores and overall placement of Highlands Ranch schools compared with the rest of the schools in CO. Northridge Elementary was just rated in the top 2% of elementary schools in CO, and provides the "Discovery Program" for gifted and talented students. There are also a few charter schools in Highlands Ranch that you could look into, but I haven't looked for info. on private schools.
Some people may think Highlands Ranch is only about nice houses, families with kids, and voting a certain way. But there are "singles", childless couples...and you really can vote anyway you want! There are many social groups to join that you can find listed in the Highlands Ranch Herald (www.highlandsranchherald.com). Basically, everyone I've ever met in HR have been so kind (but busy too).
If you're looking for a great place to live with decent moral values, beautiful neighborhoods, very competent schools, and "feel-happy" weather, then Highlands Ranch is the perfect place!
If you don't like the Highlands Ranch H.O.A. (about $39/month, billed quarterly and includes access to the rec. centers), you might like areas of Littleton, Centennial, Lone Tree or Castle Rock too. A great resource for finding real estate in CO is www.recolorado.com. It's a free, no-contact, no obligation MLS.
(I am NOT affilited with any o
Adrie | Highlands Ranch, CO