Highlands, Edina,MN

If you’re considering a move to Edina, MN, the Highlands neighborhood in the southeast part of the city is definitely worth exploring. This charming community offers a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. Residents here enjoy beautiful tree-lined streets, well-maintained parks, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal spot for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. The neighborhood’s inviting atmosphere is complemented by excellent schools and a variety of local shops and eateries, ensuring that everything you need is just minutes away.

One of the standout attractions in Highlands is the serene Highlands Park, which features walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas—perfect for weekend outings and family gatherings. Additionally, the nearby Centennial Lakes Park is a favorite among locals, offering scenic lakes, ice skating in the winter, and paddle boating in the summer. For those who appreciate art and culture, the Edina Art Center is also close by, providing classes, exhibitions, and workshops for all ages. These amenities contribute to a well-rounded lifestyle that balances outdoor recreation with cultural enrichment.

Highlands’ location in the southeast of Edina means you’re only about a 15 to 20-minute drive from downtown Minneapolis, making it an excellent choice for commuters or anyone who enjoys easy access to the city’s vibrant dining, entertainment, and shopping districts. Plus, the neighborhood is well-connected by major roads and public transit options, which makes getting around hassle-free. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to call home with nearby nature or a convenient spot close to urban excitement, Highlands offers a wonderful mix that’s tough to beat.

In Highlands, 43% 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.

43% of people over 16 have children, so you're likely to find a balanced mix of family life and adult-oriented living. The neighborhood tends to feel lively without being overwhelming, with a good blend of young families, professionals, and long-term residents. Parks, playgrounds, and local schools contribute to a friendly community atmosphere, while quieter pockets and mature spaces appeal to those seeking peace and privacy. This balance makes the area welcoming to nearly everyone.

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 1,215 residents, Highlands is notably smaller than many other Edina 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.

Highlands has a population density of 2,358, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Edina 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.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 46, 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.

The Highlands crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Highlands, home prices come in around $880,100, 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 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 $1,840, 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.