Is Highlands a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Highlands receives an overall livability score of 2.9 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include above-average household incomes, a low poverty rate. Areas to be aware of include high housing costs. Highlands has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Highlands is $122,000, which is significantly higher than the national average — 62% above $75,149. This places Highlands among higher-income communities. Unemployment stands at 4.9%, indicating a healthy job market. Only 4.1% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 27 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Highlands is $1,000,000, making it a premium housing market at 255% above the U.S. median of $281,900. Renters pay a median of $1,000 per month, below the national average — a plus for affordability. With a home price-to-income ratio of 8.2x, housing affordability is a significant challenge for many families.
Education
14.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 28.2% have completed high school.
Climate & Weather
Highlands has a cool climate with an average annual temperature of 43°F. Winters average 31°F in January while summers reach 59°F in July. The area gets 211 sunny days per year. Annual precipitation totals 116.3 inches, including 335.3 inches of snow.