Highland, Rochester,NY

If you're considering a move to Rochester, NY, the Highland neighborhood is a charming choice that offers a blend of urban convenience and local character. Situated in the south-east part of the city, Highland is known for its welcoming community vibe and its accessibility to many amenities. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or someone looking for a vibrant yet cozy place to call home, Highland provides a great balance. One of the standout features of this area is the Highland Park, a beautifully maintained green space famous for its spectacular seasonal flower displays, including the annual Lilac Festival that draws visitors from all over. It’s a perfect spot for weekend strolls, picnics, or community events, making it a true gem for residents who enjoy the outdoors.

Living in Highland means you’re never far from the heart of Rochester. Downtown is conveniently just a short drive or bus ride away, making daily commutes or weekend outings a breeze. This proximity allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: the peaceful, neighborhood feel of Highland and the vibrant city life downtown offers. From trendy restaurants and coffee shops to theaters and museums, everything you might want to explore or experience is within easy reach. The neighborhood itself also boasts several local shops and eateries, which add to its unique flavor and help foster a strong sense of community among neighbors.

For those who appreciate cultural and recreational activities, Highland has plenty to offer. Aside from Highland Park, the neighborhood is close to the Erie Canal, where you can enjoy walking or biking along scenic trails. The area also supports a lively arts scene, with galleries and cultural centers nearby, and community events that bring people together throughout the year. Schools in Highland are well-regarded, making it a great option for families looking for quality education. Overall, Highland is a neighborhood that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and convenient access to Rochester’s urban core—making it a wonderful place to settle down and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.

About 24% of the Highland 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 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.

Highland demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 7,055, the number of residents who reside in Highland is about average in size compared to other Rochester neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Highland has a population density of 2,113, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Rochester 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 42, 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 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 Highland, the median home price is $194,544, 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 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 $1,307, 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. 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 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.