Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Highland City, FL
Considering a move to Highland City, FL? With a population of 12,800, this friendly suburb offers affordable living with median home prices around $247,000 and average rents at $1,320. Residents enjoy a warm climate with 66% sunny days, low commute times of 27 minutes, and convenient access to Lakeland’s major hospitals and colleges. While crime rates are slightly above the national average, Highland City features a high rate of homeownership and a relaxed lifestyle in the heart of Central Florida.
Demographics - Highland City, FL
Demographics - Highland City, FL
Highland City, FL is home to about 12,800 residents, with a median age of 44.2, reflecting a mature and family-oriented community. The population is predominantly White, with a modest mix of other ethnicities, and nearly 10% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its balanced gender ratio and moderate density make it a comfortable suburban environment.
Population:
12,800
Density:
2,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.6%

Ethnic Composition
White:
80.2%
Black:
8.8%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
9.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Highland City, FL?
Living in Highland City is relatively affordable, with a cost of living index lower than the national average and median home values around $247,000. Rental rates are reasonable at $1,320 per month, and residents benefit from Florida’s lack of state income tax. Utility and insurance costs are typical for the region, making it an attractive option for families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$247,000
Gross Rent:
$1,320
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$165
Auto Insurance:
$2,140
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,420
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$445
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
91.3
Grocery:
97.5
Housing:
81.2
Utilities:
106.7
Transportation:
97.8
Health Care:
95.5
Miscellaneous:
93.4
Crime
Is Highland City, FL a safe place to live?
Highland City experiences a crime rate slightly above the national average, with about 282 violent crimes and 1,964 property crimes per 100,000 residents. While the chance of being a victim of violent crime is 1 in 355, the community remains proactive about safety. Residents should take standard precautions, especially regarding property security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
282
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,964
Crime Index:
2,246
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 355
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 51
Weather
What is the weather like in Highland City, FL year-round?
The city enjoys a warm, subtropical climate, with summer highs reaching 92°F and mild winters averaging in the low 70s. About 66% of days are sunny, and annual rainfall is ample at around 51 inches, supporting lush landscapes. Outdoor activities can be enjoyed year-round due to comfortable seasonal temperatures.

Winter
Min:
52°F
Max:
73°F

Spring
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F

Summer
Min:
73°F
Max:
92°F

Fall
Min:
66°F
Max:
86°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
51.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
66%
Neighbors
Households in Highland City have a median income of $54,300 and a family income of $61,500, supporting a modest but stable lifestyle. The area has a 13.1% poverty rate and an unemployment rate below 5%, while most residents commute about 27 minutes to work. Education levels are solid, with nearly 88% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$31,000
Household Income:
$54,300
Family Income:
$61,500
Per Capita Income:
$26,900
Income Male:
$34,500
Income Female:
$27,300
Poverty Rate:
13.1%
Non English Speakers:
9.6%
Rent:
$1,320
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
27.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
87.9%
Bachelors or More:
16.4%
Education
How are the schools in Highland City, FL?
Families in Highland City benefit from several local public and private schools, including Highland City Elementary and Heritage Christian Academy, with reasonable student-to-teacher ratios. Nearby, Florida Southern College and Polk State College in Lakeland offer higher education opportunities within a short drive. The area’s educational resources make it a practical choice for students of all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Highland City Elementary School
Street:
5355 9th St SE
Phone:
863-648-3035
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
Carlton Palmore Elementary School
Street:
3725 Cleveland Heights Blvd
Phone:
863-648-3510
Students:
590
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2

Private Schools
Name:
Heritage Christian Academy
Street:
4200 Shepherd Rd
Phone:
863-619-7103
Students:
220

Colleges
Name:
Florida Southern College
City:
Lakeland
State:
FL
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
3,400
Name:
Polk State College
City:
Lakeland
State:
FL
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
10,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Highland City is supported by nearby major hospitals like Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center and Bartow Regional Medical Center, both offering emergency services. The community has an average of 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, and about 85% have health insurance coverage, ensuring accessible medical care. The area’s healthcare resources provide peace of mind for families and seniors.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center
Address:
1324 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33805
Phone:
(863) 687-1100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Bartow Regional Medical Center
Address:
2200 Osprey Blvd, Bartow, FL 33830
Phone:
(863) 533-8111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
84.5%
Health Care Index:
67.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Highland City, FL?
The housing market in Highland City is accessible, with a median home price of $247,000 and strong owner-occupancy at 73%. Rental options are available, with two-bedroom units averaging $1,320 and a rental vacancy rate of nearly 8%. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates highlight market stability for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$247,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,320
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents handle licensing and registration through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Tallahassee. Comprehensive information and online services are available at the FLHSMV website, making it convenient for new arrivals to manage their vehicle needs. The department provides statewide support for all driver and vehicle-related inquiries.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
2900 Apalachee Parkway, Tallahassee, FL 32399
Phone:
850-617-2000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.