What They Don’t Tell You About Living In Highland Utah
Highland, Utah, is a beautiful and sought-after community nestled in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, about 35 minutes south of Salt Lake City. If you're considering a move to Highland, it's important to know both the advantages and potential drawbacks of living in this area. Let’s dive into some of the pros and cons to help you decide if Highland is the right place for you!
Pros of Living in Highland, Utah
1. Natural Beauty
One of the biggest draws to Highland is its stunning surroundings. With the Wasatch Mountains in the background and Mount Timpanogos nearby, the area offers breathtaking views and a true connection to nature.
2. Convenient Location
Highland is ideally located for commuters, with easy access to American Fork Canyon, the freeway, and the Salt Lake International Airport (just 35 minutes away). While it provides a small-town feel, it’s still well-connected to the larger metro areas.
3. Spacious Lot Sizes
Many homes in Highland sit on larger lots, often a quarter to half an acre. While newer homes tend to have smaller lots, there are still plenty of options for those seeking more space.
4. Excellent Schools
Highland is part of the highly-rated Alpine School District, known for its strong academics. In addition to public schools, families have access to private and charter schools like American Heritage and Challenger School, both located nearby.
5. Outdoor Recreation
For those who love an active lifestyle, Highland offers easy access to hiking, biking, and running trails. The Murdoch Trail is a popular paved path extending for miles, ideal for jogging, cycling, and even marathon training.
6. Small-Town Charm & Quiet Atmosphere
Highland has a peaceful, close-knit community vibe. It’s a great place for those who appreciate a quieter, more suburban feel while still having access to modern conveniences.
Cons of Living in Highland, Utah
1. Limited Shopping & Amenities
Highland has grocery stores like Macy’s and Meyer’s, but for big-box stores like Costco, Target, or Walmart, residents need to travel to nearby Lehi or Cedar Hills. Fortunately, these are just a short drive away.
2. Many Businesses Close on Sundays
If you’re new to Utah, you might be surprised to find that many businesses in Highland close on Sundays. While surrounding areas offer more options, this is something to keep in mind if Sunday shopping and dining are important to you.
3. Higher Cost of Living
Highland’s real estate market is on the higher end compared to neighboring cities. The median home price is around $850,000, making it a more expensive place to live.
4. Limited Public Transportation
Unlike Salt Lake City, Highland does not have an extensive public transportation system. While there is a bus system, there is no TRAX or train service running through the area, so having a car is a necessity.
5. Windy Weather
One thing that surprises many new residents is the wind. While mornings are generally calm, afternoons and evenings can get quite windy, which may be a consideration for some.
Is Highland Right for You?
Highland, Utah, offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, excellent schools, and a family-friendly atmosphere, but it does come with some trade-offs. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic environment with access to outdoor activities and don’t mind the higher home prices or limited shopping, Highland might be the perfect fit!
If you're considering making a move to Highland, my team and I would love to help. Feel free to give us a call, shoot us a text, or send us an email—we’d be happy to answer any questions and guide you through the process.
