As seen in the August 2008 issue of Money magazine and on the web at CNNMoney.com.

Highlands Ranch, CO
Top 100 rank: 12
Population: 102,600

Just 12 miles southeast of Denver, Highlands Ranch is a young unincorporated community — only 27 years old this year. Settled by Native Americans long ago, it remained a series of farms and ranches until the 1980s brought suburban development.

The community is home to the Highlands Ranch Mansion, or “Castle Isabel,” a turn-of-the-century, 22,000-square foot structure built by a wealthy resident in 1904.

Though the area is still unincorporated – you might not find it on a map – community is strong here. All Highlands Ranch residents must follow a community covenant that has firm guidelines on housing modification, fencing, and contribution to the local library and recreation centers.