Highlands, Lowell,MA

If you’re considering a move to Lowell, MA, the Highlands neighborhood in the southeast part of the city is definitely worth a closer look. This charming area offers a wonderful mix of residential comfort and community spirit, making it a great choice for families, young professionals, and anyone looking for a welcoming environment. One of the highlights of Highlands is its access to several parks and green spaces, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Whether you enjoy morning jogs, weekend picnics, or simply spending time in nature, the neighborhood's parks offer a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle.

Highlands is also known for its local charm, with a variety of small businesses, cafes, and eateries that give the area a cozy, neighborhood feel. Residents here enjoy being close to attractions like the Lowell National Historical Park and the Boott Cotton Mills Museum, which celebrate the city’s rich industrial past and vibrant cultural scene. For those who appreciate arts and entertainment, the nearby Tsongas Center hosts concerts, sports events, and family shows throughout the year. These spots not only provide entertainment options but also foster a strong sense of community among Highlands residents.

One of the biggest conveniences of living in the Highlands neighborhood is its proximity to Downtown Lowell, which is just a short drive or bike ride away. This means you can easily access all the amenities, shops, restaurants, and services downtown has to offer, while still enjoying the quieter, more laid-back vibe of the neighborhood. The easy commute makes Highlands an ideal spot for anyone working in the city or nearby areas. Overall, Highlands combines comfort, culture, and convenience, making it a standout choice for anyone relocating to Lowell.

30% of the Highlands population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 30% 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.

Exploring Highlands demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Highlands has a population of 20,585, which is larger than many other Lowell neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Highlands has a population density of 4,460, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Lowell neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 37, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

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 prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Highlands, the median home price is about $393,600, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Highlands have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

With an average rent price of $1,624, rental rates in 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.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Highlands. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Highlands offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.