If you’re considering a move to Colorado and are wondering about the local job climate, you’ll be happy to learn that Douglas County, Colorado was ranked #4 in the nation for job growth in 2011 by CNN Money in their article “Where the jobs are.” A big part of the reason for this county’s impressive job stats is the six Fortune 500 companies that make their headquarters there. Companies like Sprint Nextel and Dish Network provide hundreds of jobs for Douglas County residents.

Nestled just east of the Rockies, between Colorado’s two largest cities, Denver and Colorado Springs, Douglas County includes the cities of Castle Rock, Parker, Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree. (To browse new home communities in these Colorado cities, visit our new home finder here.)

In addition to the major employers already based in Douglas County, at least one other major company, Gordon Holdings, Inc., has announced they are moving to the area, bringing even more jobs with them. Wondering what kind of salaries are offered in Douglas County? Forbes ranked the area #7 in their list of Best Places To Get Ahead, with a median household income of over $98,000 in 2008.

What’s luring these employers? Presumably, beautiful scenery and a high standard of living (Douglas County was ranked #4 in the nation for “Quality of Life” by American City Business Journals in May 2004). Douglas County schools are also generally highly ranked among Colorado school districts, making Douglas County an ideal choice for families.

UPDATE: Our Douglas County communities have sold out: explore more than 50 new Colorado communities here.