Highland Park, Norfolk,VA

Moving to Norfolk, VA? Highland Park, nestled in the southeastern part of the city, offers a charming blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience that many newcomers find irresistible. This neighborhood is known for its friendly community atmosphere and beautiful tree-lined streets, making it a perfect spot for families, young professionals, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful yet vibrant lifestyle. One of the standout features of Highland Park is its proximity to several lovely parks and recreational areas, including the scenic Lake Whitehurst Park, where residents can enjoy walking trails, picnic spots, and water views.

Highland Park is particularly attractive to those who appreciate easy access to local amenities without sacrificing a sense of community. The area boasts a variety of dining options, cozy cafes, and boutique shops that add to its welcoming vibe. For culture and entertainment, residents are just a short drive away from the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Virginia Arts Festival, both offering enriching experiences. Plus, the neighborhood’s schools have a solid reputation, making it a great choice for families with children. The blend of comfort, convenience, and culture really makes Highland Park a standout neighborhood within Norfolk.

One of the biggest perks of living in Highland Park is how close it is to Downtown Norfolk—just about a 10 to 15-minute drive. This means you can easily enjoy all the excitement of downtown life, from vibrant nightlife and waterfront activities to major employers and public transit options, while retreating to the calm and cozy environment of your neighborhood at the end of the day. Whether you’re relocating for work or looking for a fresh start in a welcoming community, Highland Park offers a fantastic balance of accessibility and charm that’s hard to beat.

16% of the Highland Park 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 16% 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 2,093 residents, Highland Park is notably smaller than many other Norfolk 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.

Boasting a population density of 7,895, Highland Park is more densely populated than many other Norfolk neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With a lower-than-average age of 31, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

The Highland Park crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Highland Park, the median home price is about $306,886, 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 Highland Park 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 $1,477, 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 ratings in Highland Park 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 Highland Park 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.