Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Highland Lakes, NJ
Thinking of moving to Highland Lakes, NJ? This scenic lake community has a population of just under 5,000, offering a quieter lifestyle and strong sense of community. Median home prices are around $325,000, with average rents near $1,620 and a high rate of homeownership. Enjoy low crime rates, highly rated local schools, and a beautiful climate with four distinct seasons and 53% sunny days. Commute times average about 40 minutes, making Highland Lakes a great choice for those seeking peaceful living with access to North Jersey amenities.
Demographics - Highland Lakes, NJ
Demographics - Highland Lakes, NJ
Highland Lakes is a close-knit community of about 4,900 people, with a median age of 45. The area is predominantly White, with a balanced gender ratio and a small but notable percentage of non-English speakers, reflecting a welcoming, established neighborhood feel.
Population:
4,933
Density:
1,030 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.1%
Black:
1.5%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
4.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Highland Lakes, NJ?
The cost of living in Highland Lakes is moderately higher than the national average, with a median home value of $325,000 and average rents around $1,620. Utilities, groceries, and transportation are also slightly above average, making budgeting important for new residents.
Median House Value:
$325,000
Gross Rent:
$1,620
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,650
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,025
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$650
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
118.9
Grocery:
115.2
Housing:
125.3
Utilities:
113.4
Transportation:
117.2
Health Care:
109.8
Miscellaneous:
107.7
Crime
Is Highland Lakes, NJ a safe place to live?
Highland Lakes boasts a low crime rate, with only 68 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1-in-1,470 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime is also relatively low, supporting a safe environment for families and individuals alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
68
Property Crimes Per 100k:
542
Crime Index:
610
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,470
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 184
Weather
What is the weather like in Highland Lakes, NJ year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 82°F and cold winters dipping to 21°F. The area receives about 53% sunny days and over 52 inches of annual rainfall, offering a classic Northeast climate ideal for outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
37°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
52.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Households in Highland Lakes have a comfortable median income of about $92,700, and the community is well-educated, with 95% holding at least a high school diploma. The unemployment rate is low at 3.7%, and most residents commute approximately 40 minutes for work.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$92,700
Family Income:
$102,600
Per Capita Income:
$38,500
Income Male:
$54,200
Income Female:
$46,700
Poverty Rate:
7.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$1,620
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
39.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.1%
Bachelors or More:
35.7%
Education
How are the schools in Highland Lakes, NJ?
Families benefit from highly rated local schools with low student-teacher ratios, such as Lounsberry Hollow Middle and Vernon Township High. The area is also near community colleges, providing accessible higher education options within a short drive.
Public Schools
Name:
Lounsberry Hollow Middle School
Street:
30 Sammis Rd
Phone:
973-764-8745
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.0
Name:
Vernon Township High School
Street:
1832 County Rd 565
Phone:
973-764-2960
Students:
970
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.4
Private Schools
Name:
Immaculate Conception Regional School
Street:
65 Church St, Franklin, NJ 07416
Phone:
973-827-3777
Students:
130
Colleges
Name:
Sussex County Community College
City:
Newton
State:
NJ
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
3,000
Name:
County College of Morris
City:
Randolph
State:
NJ
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
8,500
Healthcare
Highland Lakes residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Newton Medical Center and Saint Clare's Hospital nearby and 2.4 physicians per 1,000 people. Over 91% of residents have health insurance, ensuring comprehensive medical coverage.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Newton Medical Center
Address:
175 High St, Newton, NJ 07860
Phone:
(973) 383-2121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Saint Clare's Hospital – Sussex Campus
Address:
20 Walnut St, Sussex, NJ 07461
Phone:
(973) 702-2600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
72.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Highland Lakes, NJ?
The housing market is stable, with a median home price of $325,000 and nearly 90% owner-occupied homes. Recent appreciation rates and low foreclosure numbers highlight a healthy real estate environment for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$325,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,620
Owner Occupied Rate:
89.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission serves Highland Lakes, offering full DMV services at its Trenton headquarters and online. Residents can conveniently manage licensing, registration, and other vehicle needs through state resources.
State:
New Jersey
Department:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Address:
225 E. State Street, Trenton, NJ 08666
Phone:
1-609-292-6500
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.