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West Highlands, Winston-Salem,NC

Neighborhood Data
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If you’re considering a move to Winston-Salem, the West Highlands neighborhood in the northwest part of the city is definitely worth a look. This charming area is known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a strong sense of community that makes it feel welcoming from day one. Residents enjoy a mix of architectural styles, including classic Craftsman and Tudor revival houses, which add a unique character to the neighborhood. It’s a perfect spot for families, young professionals, and anyone who appreciates a neighborhood with both charm and convenience.

One of the standout attractions in West Highlands is the local parks and green spaces, perfect for weekend strolls or outdoor play. The neighborhood is home to the popular West Highland Park, which features playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas. Additionally, the nearby Reynolda Village offers a delightful blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences just a short drive away. For those who enjoy arts and history, the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA) is also accessible nearby, providing a creative hub for the community.

West Highlands is conveniently located just a few miles northwest of Downtown Winston-Salem, making it easy to commute for work or entertainment. Whether you want to catch a show at the Stevens Center, explore local breweries, or dine at one of the many acclaimed restaurants downtown, everything is within a 10-15 minute drive. This proximity, combined with the neighborhood’s peaceful vibe and amenities, makes West Highlands an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Winston-Salem living.

Community Snapshot

Population 927
Density (People/sqml.) 1,860
Median Age 48.7
Married Couples
45%
45% of the population of West Highlands aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
12%
12% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

12% of the West 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 12% 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

West Highlands neighborhood age breakdown chart

West 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 927 residents, West Highlands is notably smaller than many other Winston-Salem 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 1,860 people per square mile, West Highlands offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Winston-Salem 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 49, 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 West Highlands

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Types of Crime

West Highlands neighborhood age breakdown chart

West Highlands Crime Map

The West Highlands 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

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Home Price $408,800
Median Rent $1,187
People/Household 1.8

Home Price Breakdown

West Highlands neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 48% Own 53%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 51% After 2010 49%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In West Highlands, home prices come in around $408,800, 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 West 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.

The median rent is around $1,187, 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

Starbucks
Coffee Shop
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Camel City Coffee
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

Truist Stadium
Stadium
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Theatre Arts
Theatre Arts
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Food & Drink

Panera Bread
Fast Food
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Chopt
Fast Food
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Groceries

Publix
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Harris Teeter
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Parks

Joe White Tennis Center
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Playground
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Shops

1st Street Mart
Convenience Store
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Fiddle & Fig
Houseware
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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5th Street & Church Street
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center
Hospital
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CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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Health Care

GAP Salem Endoscopy Center
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Safety

Forsyth County Sheriff's Office
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Forsyth County Emergency Services
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
St Leo School
333 Springdale Ave, Winston Salem, NC
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Early College Of Forsyth Co
2100 Silas Creek Prky, Winston Salem, NC
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Brunson Elementary
155 N Hawthorne Road, Winston Salem, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Moore Magnet Elementary
451 Knollwood Street, Winston Salem, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
The Downtown School
601 N Cherry Street, Winston Salem, NC
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Whitaker Elementary
2600 Buena Vista Road, Winston Salem, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Paisley Ib Magnet School
1400 Grant Avenue, Winston Salem, NC
High School 6 - 10 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in West Highlands combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in West Highlands can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $71,318
Household Income $81,282
Unemployment 3.9%

Income Breakdown

West Highlands Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors help define the character and opportunities within a neighborhood, shaping everything from lifestyle to overall accessibility. Household incomes in West Highlands average around $81,282, 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 employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In West Highlands, the unemployment rate sits at around 4%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

West Highlands in Winston-Salem primarily features charming early to mid-20th century homes, with many Craftsman-style bungalows and Colonial Revival houses. The neighborhood is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and modestly sized single-family homes, making it popular among young professionals and families seeking character and community feel.

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

Yes, West Highlands hosts several community events that foster neighborhood engagement. The West Highlands Neighborhood Association organizes seasonal events such as block parties, yard sales, and holiday celebrations. Additionally, residents often participate in nearby festivals like the RiverRun International Film Festival and the Downtown Arts District events, which are just a short drive away.

How far is Downtown?

Downtown Winston-Salem is conveniently located approximately 2 to 3 miles from West Highlands, making it a quick 10-minute drive or a 15-20 minute bike ride. This close proximity allows residents easy access to downtown attractions like the Stevens Center for performing arts, the Wake Forest Innovation Quarter, and a variety of restaurants, breweries, and cultural venues.

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