Highland, CA
Population 56,690 · California
About Highland, CA
Highland is a mid-sized city located in California with a population of 56,690 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $77,979 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.3 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Highland features a median home value of $455,200, which is 86% above the national median of $244,900. This places Highland in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,539, 32% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 16,924 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (10,808 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (5,593 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Highland shows an unemployment rate of 5.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Highland have an average one-way commute time of 29.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
22.8% of Highland residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 51.2% White, 2.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 7.3% Asian residents, with 22.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Highland, CA
Compared to national averages, Highland has a median household income of $77,979 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $455,200, which is 86% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,539 is 32% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Highland's income is 20% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 30% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Highland, CA?
Highland offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $77,979, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $455,200. However, as a mid-sized city, Highland provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Highland has a population of 56,690 with a median age of 33.3 years. Compare Highland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Highland
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fountain Valley | 56,358 | $111,797 | $1,018,600 | Compare |
| National City | 55,960 | $64,248 | $580,900 | Compare |
| Arcadia | 55,550 | $116,142 | $1,336,500 | Compare |
| South Whittier | 55,201 | $98,974 | $641,700 | Compare |
| Hacienda Heights | 54,956 | $106,620 | $778,700 | Compare |
| Gilroy | 58,561 | $131,554 | $975,800 | Compare |
| Beaumont | 54,817 | $105,164 | $464,000 | Compare |
| San Jacinto | 54,756 | $78,281 | $391,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in California
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Highland With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Highland
What is the population of Highland, CA?
The population of Highland, CA is 56,690 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in California.
What is the median household income in Highland?
The median household income in Highland, CA is $77,979 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Highland?
The median home value in Highland, CA is $455,200, which is 86% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Highland?
The median monthly rent in Highland, CA is $1,539, which is 32% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Highland?
The unemployment rate in Highland, CA is 5.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Highland, CA a good place to live?
Highland offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 56,690 and a median age of 33.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Highland, CA?
22.8% of residents in Highland aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Highland?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Highland, CA: median home value is $455,200 (86% above national), median rent is $1,539/month, and median household income is $77,979. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Highland?
The poverty rate in Highland, CA is 16.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Highland, CA?
Highland's population is 51.2% White, 2.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 7.3% Asian, and 5.4% two or more races. 22.1% of residents are foreign-born.