Top 5 Things You May Not Know About Southwest Ranches

 Shed light on the alluring depths of heritage, independence, and rural tradition that run through Southwest Ranches, a rare countryside escape amid South Florida's ever-expanding landscape.  

Bask in the essence of luxury and legacy as you unravel the true beauty of Southwest Ranches, a sprawling town known for its history and unique rural lifestyle. 

 Incorporated in 2000 to uphold its character and heritage, Southwest Ranches features a prime collection of ranch-style homes, equestrian estates, acreage properties, and contemporary residences across 13 square miles, bordered by Weston at its north, the cities of Pembroke Pines and Miramar to its south, the suburbs of Davie and Cooper City to its east, and the Everglades to the west.

Here, backyards stretch for acres, traffic moves at a trot, and the only high-rises in sight are towering oaks lining its quiet roads — and residents wouldn't want it any other way! 

But believe it or not, this town isn't just about scenic trails, wide-open spaces, and serenity. 

In fact, its deep connection to its past holds unexpected details, long-standing traditions, and stories even some locals haven't heard.

 So, hang tight and let us work our magic! 

Today, we're bringing Southwest Ranches' hidden charms to the surface.

 Here are five things you may not know about Southwest Ranches. 

  A Name That Almost Wasn't    

If history had played out differently, we might not be calling this town "Southwest Ranches" at all — and here's why: 

You see, before its official incorporation (which we'll learn more about later), residents held a naming contest, and 122 different names made the cut. 

Some were straightforward, some a bit wild, and one lucky choice had everyone's vote. 

On October 12, 1999, the community agreed to name it "Southwest Ranches," a nod to its location in Southwest Broward County and its strong ranching and equestrian roots. 

If you ask us, the name fits like a well-worn saddle, and we wouldn't want to have it any other way!

 Born From Protest, Built With Purpose         

Southwest Ranches exists today because residents refused it to be anything else — and they succeeded!  

In 1996, Pembroke Pines made plans to annex the area, and the Southwest Ranches community didn't like it — not one bit! 

Rather than being absorbed into a growing city, they fought for independence, and in 2000, the town officially incorporated with an overwhelming community vote, forming not just an address but also preserving a cherished rural way of life in a region filled with inevitable urban sprawl.

 A Town That Runs Like a Business    

Unlike most cities that handle municipal services in-house, Southwest Ranches operates like a well-oiled machine with a bit of outsourcing magic. 

Known as a "contract town," it hires private contractors to manage essential services like fire protection, law enforcement, and public works instead of maintaining large government departments. 

The result? Lower taxes, including one of the lowest millage rates in Broward County. 

That's right — Southwest Ranches proves that living in a town with privacy, space, and an equestrian lifestyle doesn't have to break the bank!

 Public Art, But Make It Horse-Friendly  

Most towns have statues, fountains, or abstract art installations. 

Southwest Ranches? It has the "Equestrian Oasis." 

But this isn't just some pretty sculpture (but it IS undoubtedly gorgeous with a purpose!).

The said public art installation is also a functional water station for horses designed to blend practicality with aesthetics. 

But more than this feature, the unique piece reflects the Southwest Ranches' commitment to its equestrian lifestyle. 

And while you won't find neon signs or high-rises in this town, it's a community where even the horses have a stylish watering hole.

  Where the Hotels Check Out    

Want to stay overnight in Southwest Ranches? 

Good luck finding a hotel because there aren't any on this side of town. 

But while that may sound odd in a world where resorts pop up faster than you can say "no vacancy," this town has zero hotels or commercial lodging within its borders because it's part of maintaining its quiet, residential atmosphere. 

Instead, visitors tend to stay in nearby Weston, Pembroke Pines, or Davie, or they opt for private vacation rentals that match the town's laid-back vibe. 

Southwest Ranches keeps its rural charm intact — and those lucky enough to live here know that's exactly the point.

 AMIT BHUTA 

 COMPASS 

LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT

(305) 439-3031  MOBILE

 [email protected] 

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