Hickory Photo

Forest Hills, Hickory,NC

Neighborhood Data
Proximitii Score score
? /100
Amenities Score Amenities Score Locked
Transit Score Transit & Commute Score Locked
Schools Score Schools Score Locked
Health & Safety Score Health & Safety Score Locked
City Crime Score Crime (City) Score Locked
Location Crime Score Crime (Location) Score Locked
Economy Score Economy Score Locked
Housing Score Housing Score Locked

For those considering a move to Hickory, NC, the Forest Hills neighborhood offers a warm and inviting community atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Situated in the southeast part of the city, Forest Hills is known for its charming homes nestled among mature trees and well-kept streets. It’s a peaceful spot that balances suburban tranquility with convenient access to everyday amenities. Families and professionals alike appreciate the neighborhood’s welcoming vibe and the sense of community fostered through local events and nearby parks.

One of the standout features of Forest Hills is its proximity to several recreational and cultural attractions. Residents enjoy easy access to the expansive Hickory City Park, which offers walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas perfect for weekend outings. Additionally, the area is close to the Hickory Museum of Art, a local gem showcasing regional artists and rotating exhibits that add a creative flair to the community. For those who love dining and shopping, Forest Hills is just a short drive from the vibrant downtown district, where you can explore boutique shops, cozy cafes, and a variety of restaurants serving everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine.

Being just a few miles southeast of downtown Hickory, Forest Hills offers the best of both worlds: a quiet neighborhood feel with the convenience of city life within easy reach. Commuting to the heart of downtown is typically a quick trip, allowing residents to enjoy work, entertainment, and social opportunities without a long drive. Whether you’re looking for excellent schools, outdoor activities, or a friendly community to call home, Forest Hills stands out as a fantastic choice for anyone relocating to the Hickory area.

Community Snapshot

Population 292
Density (People/sqml.) 1,596
Median Age 44.8
Married Couples
62%
62% of the population of Forest Hills aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
33%
33% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Forest Hills, 33% 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 33% 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

Forest Hills neighborhood age breakdown chart

Forest Hills 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 292 residents, Forest Hills is notably smaller than many other Hickory 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 1,596 people per square mile, Forest Hills offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Hickory 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 45, 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 Forest Hills

Crime Safety Index Score Locked 1 2 3 4 5

 

Total Crime Incidents
Try for free within 1 mile
Score Locked per 100k people

Types of Crime

Forest Hills neighborhood age breakdown chart

Forest Hills Crime Map

The Forest Hills 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

? /10
Home Price $218,500
Median Rent $1,092
People/Household 2.5

Home Price Breakdown

Forest Hills neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 37% Own 63%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 42% After 2010 58%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Forest Hills, the median home price is about $218,500, 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 Forest Hills 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.

The median rent is around $1,092, 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.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Copperbean
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Crosswind Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

L.P. Frans Stadium
Stadium
min.
min.
Hickory Aviation Museum
Museum
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Little Caesars
Fast Food
min.
min.
Arby's
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Food Lion
Grocery Store
min.
min.
Lowes Foods
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Playground
Playground
min.
min.
Jaycee Park
Park
min.
min.

Shops

Mel's Superette
Convenience Store
min.
min.
Cubbard Express
Convenience Store
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
min.
CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
min.

Health Care

Catawba Valley medical Center
Doctor
min.
min.
Viewmont Urology
Doctor
min.
min.

Safety

Hickory Fire Station 3
Fire Station
min.
min.
Hickory Fire Department Station 4
Fire Station
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Viewmont Elementary
21 16Th Avenue Nw, Hickory, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Northview Middle
302 28Th Avenue Ne, Hickory, NC
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
University Christian High School
629 8Th St Ne, Hickory, NC
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Hickory High
1234 3Rd Street Ne, Hickory, NC
High School 9 - 13 School Score
Oakwood Elementary
366 4Th Street Nw, Hickory, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Longview Elementary
737 12Th Street Sw, Hickory, NC
Elementary School 3 - 5 School Score
Cornerstone Christian Academy
231 3Rd Ave Ne, Hickory, NC
High School 4 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Forest Hills. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Forest Hills can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.

Economy

? /10
Income Per Capita $50,594
Household Income $88,309
Unemployment 1.4%

Income Breakdown

Forest Hills Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

Industry Employed
Agriculture & Mining Unlock
Construction Unlock
Manufacturing Unlock
Wholesale & Retail Unlock
Transportation & Warehousing Unlock
Information Unlock
Finance & Insurance Unlock

Local economic factors help define the character and opportunities within a neighborhood, shaping everything from lifestyle to overall accessibility. Household incomes in Forest Hills average around $88,309, which is about on par with many surrounding neighborhoods. This balanced income level supports a diverse community and offers a stable, well-rounded environment for residents.

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 Forest Hills, 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 types of homes are common?

In Forest Hills, Hickory, NC, you'll find a variety of home styles, predominantly featuring charming mid-century ranch houses and traditional brick homes. Many properties boast spacious yards with mature trees, reflecting the neighborhood's established character. There are also some newer constructions with modern updates, but the overall feel is of a quiet, residential area with well-maintained single-family homes.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Yes, Forest Hills residents often come together for seasonal events such as neighborhood block parties and holiday gatherings. Additionally, nearby venues like the Hickory Community Theatre and the Catawba Science Center host regular public events that are popular with locals. The city of Hickory also organizes annual festivals like the Hickory Hops Beer and Wine Festival, which many Forest Hills residents attend.

How far is Downtown?

Downtown Hickory is conveniently located about 2 to 3 miles from Forest Hills, making it just a short 5 to 10-minute drive. This proximity allows residents easy access to downtown attractions such as the Hickory Farmers Market, the SALT Block cultural district, and a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
Unlock to see 82 30 83 38 47 30 85 55
Unlock to see 75 50 73 46 78 84 41 83
Unlock to see 68 59 55 57 70 64 83 70
Forest Hills Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe
Unlock to see 49 79 81 85 31 67 70 31
Unlock to see 36 56 49 45 35 80 66 38
Unlock to see 25 83 56 81 59 86 43 79

Other Neighborhoods in Hickory, NC