Superior's history is one of coal mining. The first mines in the area were developed in the late 1800's. The Town itself was founded in 1896 and incorporated in 1904. The Town reportedly was named after the "superior" quality of coal found in the area.

Mining was the major force in Superior's history until the Industrial Mine closed in 1945. Subsequently, many people moved out of the area and the Town evolved into a quiet ranching and farming community. The Town's population hovered around 250 until recently. For a good review of Superior's history, look at Lost Superior: Remembering the Architectural Heritage of a Colorado Coal Mining Town by the Superior Historical Commission. Copies of the book are available at Town Hall.

The Town's largest residential development is known as Rock Creek Ranch. Although the land was subdivided in 1987, development continues today. Through 2006, approximately 2700 single-family homes and 1800 multi-family homes have been developed in Rock Creek swelling Superior's population to approximately 12,483.

Future development plans of the Town include commercial development, retail development, multi-family residential units, and single family homes. The Town is approximately four square miles in area and has 630 acres of parks, green space, and open space and 35 miles of trails.

Demographics

The Town of Superior has a well-educated, family-centered population of 13,087 poised along the productive US 36 corridor.

Average Household Size
2.8
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census v2019

For population 25 years and over in Superior:

• High school or higher: 98.1%
• Bachelor's degree or higher: 76.3%
• Graduate or professional degree: 33.0%
• Population in Labor Force: 79.1%
• Unemployed: 2.9%
• Mean travel time to work (commute): 22.7 minutes
• Median household income above state average.
• Median house value above state average.
• Percentage of population with a bachelor's degree or higher significantly above state average.

Sources: City-Data.com and U.S. Census Bureau, Census v2019

Superior Community Profile - Data Source: drcog.org