Highland

Tucked into the northwestern corner of Indiana, Highland sits comfortably in the heart of Lake County — close enough to Chicago to take advantage of everything a major city offers, yet far enough to enjoy a quieter, more grounded pace of life. If you’re weighing your options for a new home base in the Region (as locals affectionately call the greater northwest Indiana area), Highland deserves a serious look. It’s a community with genuine character, strong finances, and a location that’s hard to beat.

A City That Fits Multiple Lifestyles

With a population of just over 5,100 people, Highland isn’t trying to be anything it’s not. It’s a compact, well-established suburb where neighbors actually know each other and local businesses get real community support. The median age of 46.4 reflects a town that’s largely settled and family-oriented, though younger residents and couples are increasingly discovering its appeal. The community clusters around Highways 41 and Route 30, giving it a central, accessible feel within the broader Lake County network. Whether you’re a working professional commuting to Chicago via the South Shore Line, a retiree looking for calm streets and good services, or a family wanting solid schools and safe neighborhoods, Highland can accommodate you without feeling like a compromise.

Cost of Living and Housing

One of Highland’s most compelling selling points is its housing market. With a median home price around $216,800, you’re getting genuine value compared to neighboring Illinois communities just across the state line. That price point buys you a real house — think well-maintained brick ranches and two-story colonials, many built in the mid-20th century with solid bones and mature landscaping. Neighborhoods near White Oak Avenue and the areas surrounding Highland High School tend to be particularly sought after for their walkability and neighborhood feel. The median household income of approximately $95,700 means the community as a whole is financially healthy, which shows in well-kept properties, funded local services, and active civic life. Renters will also find options here, though ownership is clearly the norm.

Employment and Economy

Highland itself is relatively small, so most residents commute for work — and the location makes that very manageable. Chicago is accessible in under an hour by car or via the South Shore commuter rail, which connects the Region directly to Millennium Station in downtown Chicago. Locally, healthcare is a significant employer, with Franciscan Health operating facilities throughout Lake County. The Merrillville and Munster corridors nearby offer additional retail, corporate, and professional employment. For those who work remotely, Highland’s affordable housing and reasonable cost of living make it an increasingly attractive option compared to pricier suburbs further into Illinois.

Lifestyle and Recreation

Daily life in Highland is comfortable without being boring. The town has a genuine Main Street feel along Ridge Road, with local restaurants, shops, and the kind of everyday conveniences that make life easier. Wicker Park, the community’s largest green space, is a genuine gathering point — particularly in summer, when Highland hosts outdoor events and concerts that bring residents together. The town also connects easily to the broader natural assets of the Region, including the Indiana Dunes National Park, about 20 miles east, which offers beaches, hiking, and one of the most underrated outdoor experiences in the Midwest. Golf courses, community sports leagues, and proximity to the Southlake Mall round out the recreational picture.

The Bottom Line

Highland, Indiana won’t dazzle you with flashy amenities or a booming downtown scene — and that’s exactly the point. It offers something increasingly rare: stability, affordability, community, and location all in one package. If you value a well-run, financially sound town where your housing dollar goes further and Chicago remains within reach, Highland is worth a serious visit before you make your final decision.