The population of Arapahoe County, Colorado has seen a significant growth over the years. In 1855, the Kansas Territorial Legislature created a large Arapahoe County to govern the western part of the Kansas Territory. The following month, the Jefferson Territorial Legislature organized 12 counties for the new territory, including a smaller Arapahoe County. In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in present-day Englewood, which is located in Arapahoe County.
This discovery sparked the Pike's Peak gold rush and led to an influx of people to the area.
Governor James Bradley Orman then designated Littleton as the temporary headquarters of South Arapahoe County.
On April 11, 1903, the Colorado General Assembly changed the name of South Arapahoe County to Arapahoe County. In 1901, the Colorado General Assembly voted to divide Arapahoe County into three parts: a new consolidated city and county of Denver, a new Adams County, and the rest of Arapahoe County to be renamed South Arapahoe County. On November 8, 1904, Arapahoe County voters chose Littleton instead of Englewood by 1310 votes to 829 to be the permanent county seat.Today, Arapahoe County is home to over 590,000 people. This population has grown by more than 83,000 since its inception. The race most likely to fall into poverty in Arapahoe County (Colorado) is Other, with 19.19% below the poverty level. The white race is the race least likely to fall into poverty in Arapahoe County (Colorado), with 6.19% below the poverty level.
Demographic information is a great way for residents and visitors to learn more about Arapahoe County. Heavy urbanization, demographic changes, and population increases (such as Aurora's rapid population diversification and young professionals in the southern suburbs) have meant that the county has become much more competitive since the 1990s and has eventually become a more Democratic-leaning suburban county. Arapahoe County has seen an impressive population growth since its inception in 1855. From its humble beginnings as part of Kansas Territory to its current population of over 590,000 people, this county has experienced many changes over time. The discovery of gold along the South Platte River in 1858 sparked a gold rush that brought many people to the area and led to Governor James Bradley Orman designating Littleton as the temporary headquarters of South Arapahoe County.
In 1901, it was divided into three parts: Denver City and County, Adams County and South Arapahoe County. Today, Arapahoe County is home to a diverse population with Other races being most likely to fall into poverty at 19.19%, while white races are least likely at 6.19%. Demographic information can help residents and visitors learn more about this county which has become much more competitive since the 1990s due to urbanization and population increases. Arapahoe County has come a long way since its inception in 1855 and continues to grow each year.
With its diverse population and rich history, it is no wonder why this county continues to be an attractive place for people from all walks of life.