Each year, Money applauds cities and towns exhibiting a thriving economy that is combined with affordability, diversity and an exceptional lifestyle. This year, we are proud to announce that Babcock Ranch made their Top 50 Best Places to Live. Read here to learn why Babcock Ranch was selected and to get more in-depth details about Money’s selection process.
Article Summary:
As hurricane season approaches, the residents of Babcock Ranch on Florida’s Gulf Coast remain notably at ease. This innovative, master-planned community, which proudly calls itself the “hometown of tomorrow,” has built a reputation for prioritizing sustainability and self-sufficiency, providing a safe haven for those weary of storms.
Founded in 2017, Babcock Ranch is distinguished as the first entirely solar-powered community in the United States. The community harnesses energy from over 650,000 solar panels, supplying clean power to its more than 5,000 residents through a network of underground power lines. This strategic setup ensures a reliable energy supply even during severe weather conditions. Located 30 miles inland and 30 feet above sea level, Babcock Ranch is designed to minimize the risk of flooding from storm surges. Its infrastructure also includes extensive retaining ponds and streets designed to absorb floodwaters, effectively keeping homes dry.
In 2022, Hurricane Ian tested Babcock Ranch’s resilience. The community emerged largely unscathed, with only minor damage reported, such as a few downed trees and missing shingles. Impressively, no resident lost power during the storm, showcasing the robustness of the town’s infrastructure.
Babcock Ranch is divided into walkable villages, each leading to Founder’s Square, the vibrant heart of the town. This central hub features amenities such as fresh produce vendors and Slater’s Goods and Provisions, where residents can relax with a glass of wine. On Friday nights, the Babcock Bandstand comes alive with live music and food trucks, fostering a strong sense of community.
Each village within Babcock Ranch offers its own set of amenities, including community pools and tennis courts, enhancing residents’ quality of life. The town is designed with convenience in mind, with schools within walking distance of all neighborhoods, making it an ideal place for families.
Housing options in Babcock Ranch cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Home prices range from the high $200,000s to over $4 million, with each home built to prioritize sustainability and storm resilience. This thoughtful construction approach ensures that every resident enjoys a safe, eco-friendly living environment.
Babcock Ranch stands as a model of forward-thinking community planning, seamlessly integrating environmental stewardship with modern living conveniences. The town’s success in withstanding Hurricane Ian with minimal damage underscores the effectiveness of its design and infrastructure. Residents of Babcock Ranch can look forward to the hurricane season with confidence, knowing their community is well-prepared to handle severe weather.
In essence, Babcock Ranch is more than just a place to live; it’s a community rooted in sustainability, resilience, and self-reliance. Its innovative design and strategic planning serve as a blueprint for future developments, demonstrating how communities can thrive in harmony with nature while offering a high quality of life. As hurricane season nears, the residents of Babcock Ranch can rest assured, knowing they belong to a community built to endure and prosper amidst challenges.
