Southwest Ranches
Equestrian estates and rural character in western Broward
By Scott Selleck — Licensed NJ/FL Real Estate Agent | 32+ Years in Bergen & Hudson Counties | The Selleck Group / KW City Views Realty
Last updated: June 2026
What Is It Like to Live in Southwest Ranches, FL?
Southwest Ranches is one of the most unique communities in Broward County — a rural municipality with equestrian properties, 2.5-to-10-acre lots, and a genuine country lifestyle. With median home values of $1.4M–$1.8M, it serves buyers who value space, nature, and privacy above all else.
Southwest Ranches exists because residents fought to preserve their rural, equestrian lifestyle rather than allow subdivision-style development that transformed most of western Broward. The result is approximately 8,000 residents spread across large lots with horse farms, pastures, riding trails, and dark night skies.
The community includes several named neighborhoods — Rolling Hills, Sunshine Ranches, and Westwood — each with its own character but united by large-lot zoning, equestrian access, and a commitment to maintaining the rural atmosphere. Properties feature custom homes on acreage, with barns, paddocks, and riding rings.
The location in western Broward puts Southwest Ranches near the Everglades, with natural open space on multiple sides. Residents are close to Weston's shopping and dining while maintaining a lifestyle that feels like a completely different world from suburban Broward.
What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Southwest Ranches, FL?
Rolling Hills
An equestrian-friendly community with large lots, horse properties, and a rural atmosphere.
Sunshine Ranches
Large-lot residential properties with custom homes and equestrian facilities.
Westwood
A community with a mix of estate properties and newer construction on generous lots.
Schools
Broward County Public Schools. West Broward High School, Falcon Cove Middle, Silver Trail Middle. School choice available.
Home Prices
Median $1.4M–$1.8M. Large-lot estate properties on 2.5–10+ acres. Custom homes with equestrian facilities command premiums.
Transportation
Car-dependent. US-27 and I-75 provide access. Weston 15 min east. Davie 20 min. Rural setting means longer drives.
Parks and Recreation
Riding trails
Miles of riding trails connect neighborhoods and provide access to natural areas along the Everglades.
Open spaces
Large-lot zoning ensures the community maintains its open, rural character throughout.
Practical Tips for Living in Southwest Ranches
Rural infrastructure: Some properties are on septic systems. Well water may be available. Verify utilities before purchasing.
Equestrian costs: Horse ownership involves significant ongoing costs beyond the property — boarding, veterinary care, farrier services.
Privacy and distance: The rural setting means longer drives to commercial areas, schools, and services. This is a lifestyle choice prioritizing space and nature.
Southwest Ranches — Schools & Education
Schools serving the Southwest Ranches area span public, private, parochial, and early childhood options across multiple grade levels.
Public Schools
The Broward County Public Schools serves this community. Schools in the district include:
Elementary Schools
- Cooper City Elementary — PK–5
Middle Schools
- Falcon Cove Middle School — 6–8
- Silver Trail Middle School — 6–8
High Schools
- West Broward High School — 9–12
For enrollment information and district details, visit Broward County Public Schools.
Day Care & Early Childhood
- Southwest Ranches Early Learning — Infant–Pre-K | Early childhood programs through Broward County Public Schools and local providers.
School ratings are sourced from GreatSchools.org as of 2026 and may change. Verify current data directly with the school district or GreatSchools.org. For Florida school grades, also reference the Florida Department of Education: https://www.fldoe.org/school-grades/.
Thinking About Southwest Ranches?
Southwest Ranches offers something that doesn't exist anywhere else in Broward County. Let's talk about what this community could look like for you.