Map of Southwest Ranches, United States

Southwest Ranches, located in the heart of Broward County, Florida, is a unique blend of rural charm and modern living. Known for its sprawling estates and equestrian lifestyle, the town offers a serene escape from the bustling city life of nearby Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

The town is characterized by its commitment to preserving a rural lifestyle, with large lots, open spaces, and a strong emphasis on community and nature. This makes it an attractive destination for those seeking tranquility without sacrificing proximity to urban amenities.

History and Culture

Southwest Ranches was incorporated in 2000, making it one of the newer towns in Florida. Despite its recent establishment, the area has a rich history rooted in agriculture and ranching, which continues to influence its cultural landscape today.

The town's culture is deeply connected to its equestrian roots, with numerous horse trails and facilities that cater to riding enthusiasts. This equestrian focus is celebrated through local events and competitions that draw participants and spectators from across the region.

Cultural diversity is a hallmark of Southwest Ranches, with a community that embraces various traditions and backgrounds. This diversity is reflected in local festivals and community gatherings that celebrate the town's multicultural heritage.

Things to do in Southwest Ranches

Southwest Ranches offers a variety of activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The town is home to several parks and nature reserves, providing ample opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and horseback riding.

For those interested in cultural experiences, Southwest Ranches hosts several local events throughout the year, including equestrian shows and community festivals that highlight the town's unique lifestyle.

Dining in Southwest Ranches offers a taste of local and international cuisine, with restaurants that serve everything from traditional American fare to exotic dishes from around the world.

Worldwide
United States

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for the United States reflect how livable a city in United States is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

Best to WorstUpdated: Dec, 2024
Full Quality of Life Rankings

Weather in Southwest Ranches

Southwest Ranches, FL, United States experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 60 inches (1524 mm), with June being the wettest month, averaging around 9 inches (229 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 78°F (26°C) in March to 85°F (29°C) in May. Rainfall begins to increase during this period, with May receiving significant precipitation, averaging around 5 inches (127 mm).
  • Summer (June to August) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 78°F (26°C) in March to 85°F (29°C) in May. Rainfall begins to increase during this period, with May receiving significant precipitation, averaging around 5 inches (127 mm).
  • Autumn (September to November) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 78°F (26°C) in March to 85°F (29°C) in May. Rainfall begins to increase during this period, with May receiving significant precipitation, averaging around 5 inches (127 mm).
  • Winter (December to February) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 78°F (26°C) in March to 85°F (29°C) in May. Rainfall begins to increase during this period, with May receiving significant precipitation, averaging around 5 inches (127 mm).
Notable Weather Events
  • Afternoon thunderstorms during summer
  • Occasional tropical storms or hurricanes in late summer and early autumn
  • Rare cold snaps during winter
Overall, Southwest Ranches' climate offers hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters, with significant rainfall during the summer months and drier conditions in the winter.

Southwest Ranches's Political Climate

Conservative

Southwest Ranches, located in Florida, United States, is a unique town known for its rural character and equestrian lifestyle. The political climate in Southwest Ranches is shaped by its commitment to preserving its rural atmosphere while balancing growth and development. The town operates under a council-manager form of government, which allows for a professional manager to oversee the day-to-day operations while the elected council sets policies.

Historically, Southwest Ranches has been focused on maintaining its open spaces and agricultural roots, which is reflected in its zoning laws and land use policies. The town's leadership is often aligned with conservative values, emphasizing property rights and limited government intervention. However, there is also a strong community focus on environmental conservation and sustainable living, which has led to initiatives aimed at protecting local wildlife and natural resources.

Recent political discussions in Southwest Ranches have centered around managing urban sprawl from nearby cities and ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with any new developments. The town has also been active in advocating for local control over land use decisions, resisting state-level mandates that could impact its rural character.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - 68%
City Governance - Council-manager government
Composition - Majority conservative with some independent members
Recent Political Changes - Increased focus on local land use control and infrastructure development
Engagement - Moderate, with active participation in town meetings and local elections
Political Scorecard - High marks for transparency and community involvement
Legislative Priorities - Preservation of rural character, Infrastructure development, Environmental conservation
Public Opinion - Residents generally favor conservative policies with a strong emphasis on local governance and environmental stewardship.
Notable Political Figures
  • Jeff Nelson - Current Mayor known for his advocacy of rural preservation and local governance.
  • Mary Ann Mixon - Town Council Member focused on infrastructure and community services.
  • Doug McKay - Former Mayor who played a key role in establishing the town's environmental policies.
Southwest Ranches

Quick Facts

Population
7,500
Median Age
44.5 yrs
Median Household Income
$123,000
Median Home Price
$650,000
Avg Rent Prices
$2,500
Unemployment Rate
2.8%
Avg commute time
30.2 mins
Avg High Temps
84° F
Avg Low Temps
64° F
Annual Rainfall
62 inches
Southwest Ranches

"Key Takeaways"

Southwest Ranches is known for its equestrian lifestyle and rural charm, offering a peaceful retreat close to urban centers.

The town has a strong sense of community, with numerous events and festivals that celebrate its cultural diversity.

Outdoor activities are abundant, with parks and nature reserves providing opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and more.