What They Don’t Tell You About Living in Highland Utah

A clear view of Mount Timpanogos rising above the Utah Valley.

Highland, Utah is one of those places that immediately catches your eye. It sits right at the base of the Wasatch Mountains about thirty five minutes south of Salt Lake City, and it feels peaceful and beautiful from the moment you arrive. If you are thinking about moving here, it helps to know both the highlights and a few things that might surprise you. Here is what life in Highland really feels like.

The first thing people notice is the scenery. The mountains feel close enough to touch and Mount Timpanogos looks stunning from almost every angle. You get a strong connection to nature and easy access to trails, parks and open spaces. The location is also convenient. You can get to American Fork Canyon within minutes. The freeway is close enough for easy commuting, and the Salt Lake City Airport is only about thirty five minutes away. Highland gives you that small town feeling while still keeping you connected to larger cities.

Many homes in Highland sit on larger lots which gives families more space and privacy. Newer developments sometimes have smaller lots, but there are still plenty of neighborhoods with room to spread out. Families also love the schools here. Highland is part of the Alpine School District which is known for strong academics. There are also great private and charter options like American Heritage and Challenger School nearby. Parents moving from out of state are often surprised at how many choices they have.

Outdoor recreation is a huge part of life in Highland. The Murdoch Trail runs for miles and is perfect for walking, running and biking. Many families spend their weekends hiking in American Fork Canyon or taking evening walks with the mountains in the background. The atmosphere is quiet, calm and family focused which is something many people appreciate after moving from a larger or busier city.

There are also things to think about before you move. Highland has limited shopping and amenities. There are grocery stores like Macys and Meyers, but for Costco, Target or Walmart you will need to drive to nearby Lehi or Cedar Hills. The good news is that they are close, but it is still something to keep in mind. If you are new to Utah, you may also notice that many businesses in Highland close on Sundays. It can take some getting used to, especially if Sunday is your grocery or shopping day.

Highland is also one of the more expensive cities in Utah County. The median home price is around eight hundred fifty thousand dollars and continues to rise. If you plan to buy here, it is helpful to work with an agent who really understands the market. Public transportation is limited as well. There is a bus system, but no TRAX or train service, so most people rely on a car. Another thing that surprises people is the wind. Mornings are usually calm, but afternoons and evenings can get very breezy.

Highland is a great choice if you want beautiful scenery, great schools, and a peaceful place to raise a family. It has a warm community feel and incredible access to outdoor activities. If you prefer a busy nightlife, a walkable shopping district or lower home prices, you may want to explore nearby cities as well. It all depends on the lifestyle you want.

If you are thinking about moving to Highland or anywhere in Utah County, my team and I would love to help. We talk with people every day who are relocating, buying, selling or building and we are always happy to answer questions. Reach out by call, text or email anytime.