Highgate, Durham,NC

If you’re considering a move to the southeast part of Durham, NC, Highgate is a fantastic neighborhood to explore. Known for its charming suburban vibe, Highgate offers residents a peaceful retreat while still being close enough to enjoy all the amenities that Durham has to offer. The community is well-established with a mix of single-family homes that appeal to both young professionals and growing families. One of the biggest attractions in Highgate is the nearby Carolina Theatre, a beloved historic venue hosting live performances and movies, which adds a cultural flair to your weekends. Additionally, the neighborhood’s proximity to the American Tobacco Campus means residents can easily enjoy trendy restaurants, coffee shops, and green spaces just a short drive away.

For those who love spending time outdoors, Highgate is a standout neighborhood thanks to its access to several parks and recreational areas. The nearby Forest Hills Park provides walking trails, playgrounds, and plenty of green space for picnics or weekend playdates. This makes Highgate especially appealing for families or anyone who enjoys an active lifestyle. Plus, the neighborhood’s tree-lined streets and quiet atmosphere create a welcoming environment that feels like a true community. Highgate also boasts convenient shopping centers and grocery stores, so daily errands are a breeze without having to venture far from home.

One of the best things about living in Highgate is its convenient proximity to Downtown Durham. Just a short 10 to 15-minute drive, residents can easily access the vibrant downtown area, filled with eclectic restaurants, art galleries, and the bustling Durham Farmers’ Market. This makes Highgate a perfect balance between suburban calm and urban excitement. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading out for a night on the town, the location offers easy access to major highways and public transportation options. Overall, Highgate provides a comfortable and convenient lifestyle that makes it a wonderful choice for anyone moving to Durham.

About 29% of the Highgate 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 18% 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.

Highgate 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 125 residents, Highgate is notably smaller than many other Durham 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 1,897 people per square mile, Highgate offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Durham 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.

With an average age of 35, 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 Highgate 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 trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Highgate, the median home price is $184,500, 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 Highgate 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 $1,273, 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 Highgate. 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 Highgate 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.