Highland Park, Columbia,MO

For those considering a move to Columbia, MO, Highland Park offers a charming blend of community spirit and convenience. Nestled in the southeast part of the city, this neighborhood is known for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming vibe, making it a great choice for families and young professionals alike. The area boasts lovely tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes, many reflecting classic Midwestern architectural styles. Residents often enjoy relaxing walks in the local parks and engaging with neighbors during community events, which foster a tight-knit feel that newcomers quickly appreciate.

One of the standout features of Highland Park is its proximity to several key attractions that enhance daily life. The neighborhood is home to the Highland Park Pool, a favorite spot during warm months for families and fitness enthusiasts. Additionally, the nearby Cosmo Park offers expansive green spaces, sports facilities, and trails for biking and jogging, making it easy to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. For those who love dining and shopping, the area is just a short drive from bustling retail centers and local eateries that showcase the unique flavors of Columbia. Whether you're grabbing a morning coffee or enjoying a weekend brunch, there's always something happening nearby.

Highland Park’s location in the southeast of Columbia means residents enjoy the benefit of being close to Downtown without the hustle and bustle. It generally takes around 10 minutes to reach the heart of the city, where you can explore a vibrant mix of shops, theaters, and cultural attractions. This easy access to downtown amenities, combined with the neighborhood’s peaceful ambiance, makes Highland Park a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy the best of both worlds. If you’re planning to relocate to Columbia, Highland Park should definitely be on your list of neighborhoods to explore!

About 35% of the Highland Park population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 17% 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.

Highland Park 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 252 residents, Highland Park is notably smaller than many other Columbia 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.

Highland Park has a population density of 3,647, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Columbia 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 39, 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 Highland Park crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Highland Park, the median home price is $146,150, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Highland Park can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $1,094, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Highland Park. 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 Highland Park 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.