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The Highlands, Wilmington,DE

Neighborhood Data
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If you’re considering a move to Wilmington, DE, The Highlands neighborhood in the southeast part of the city is definitely worth exploring. Known for its charming blend of residential comfort and community spirit, The Highlands offers a welcoming atmosphere for families, professionals, and retirees alike. The tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes create a picturesque environment that makes settling in feel like coming home. Residents enjoy a quiet suburban feel while still being close enough to enjoy the urban amenities of Wilmington.

One of the standout features of The Highlands is its access to beautiful green spaces and local parks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families who love spending time outside. Highland Park itself is a popular spot within the neighborhood, offering walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The neighborhood’s close-knit vibe extends to local events and community gatherings, fostering a sense of belonging. For those who appreciate a bit of history, nearby landmarks and charming older homes add character to the area. The Highlands also boasts convenient shopping and dining options nearby, ensuring that daily errands are a breeze.

When it comes to commuting or enjoying city life, The Highlands is just a short drive northwest of Downtown Wilmington, making it an ideal location for those who work or frequently visit the city center. The proximity means residents can easily access Wilmington’s cultural attractions, restaurants, theaters, and business hubs without sacrificing the tranquility of their neighborhood. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to call home or a community with plenty of local charm and amenities, The Highlands offers a balanced lifestyle that’s hard to beat in Wilmington.

Community Snapshot

Population 2,916
Density (People/sqml.) 1,726
Median Age 49.8
Married Couples
51%
51% of the population of The Highlands aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
15%
15% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In The Highlands, 15% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 15% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

The Highlands neighborhood age breakdown chart

The Highlands demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 2,916 residents, The Highlands is notably smaller than many other Wilmington neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 1,726 people per square mile, The Highlands offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Wilmington neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 50, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in The Highlands

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

The Highlands neighborhood age breakdown chart

The Highlands Crime Map

The The Highlands crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing

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Home Price $527,375
Median Rent $1,647
People/Household 2.0

Home Price Breakdown

The Highlands neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 25% Own 75%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 50% After 2010 50%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In The Highlands, home prices come in around $527,375, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in The Highlands can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $1,647, rental rates in The Highlands are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Sugarfoot
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Faire Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Delaware Art Museum
Museum
min.
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Delaware Art Museum
Museum
min.
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Food & Drink

Old Banks Craft Bistro
Bar
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BarRoja
Bar
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Groceries

Acme
Grocery Store
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Save-A-Lot
Grocery Store
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Parks

Highlands Community Playground
Playground
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Kentmere Parkway
Park
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Shops

Boyd’s Flowers
Florist
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Dash In
Convenience Store
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Wilmington Greyhound Terminal
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

Wilmington
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Saint Francis Healthcare
Hospital
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CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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Health Care

Wahl Family Dentistry
Dentist
min.
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Safety

Wilmington Fire Deprtment Station 5
Fire Station
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Dupont Experimental Station Firehouse
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Warner Elementary School
801 West 18Th Street, Wilmington, DE
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Tower Hill School
2813 W 17Th St, Wilmington, DE
High School PK - 12 School Score
Bayard Middle School
200 South Dupont Street, Wilmington, DE
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Padua Academy
905 N Broom St, Wilmington, DE
High School 9 - 12 School Score
St Ann School
2006 Shallcross Ave, Wilmington, DE
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Highlands Elementary School
2100 Gilpin Avenue, Wilmington, DE
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Charter School Of Wilmington
100 North Dupont Road, Wilmington, DE
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in The Highlands combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in The Highlands can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $89,463
Household Income $137,804
Unemployment 1.0%

Income Breakdown

The Highlands Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In The Highlands, median household incomes average $137,804, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In The Highlands, the unemployment rate is just 1%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall lifestyle like?

The Highlands in Wilmington, DE offers a balanced suburban lifestyle with easy access to city amenities. Residents enjoy a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of green spaces and parks like Brandywine Park nearby. It's ideal for those seeking a peaceful neighborhood while still being close to urban conveniences.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

The Highlands is conveniently located near major highways such as Interstate 95, providing quick access to Philadelphia and Baltimore. Additionally, public transit options include nearby Wilmington Train Station and several DART First State bus routes, making commuting and travel around the city straightforward for residents.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

While The Highlands itself is primarily residential, it is close to notable Wilmington landmarks like the Hagley Museum and Library, showcasing early American industry, and the Delaware Art Museum, which features American art and illustration. These cultural sites offer residents enriching experiences within a short drive.

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