Highland Lakes, NJ
Population 3,941 · New Jersey
About Highland Lakes, NJ
Highland Lakes is a small town located in New Jersey with a population of 3,941 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $129,500 per year, which is 72% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49.3 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Highland Lakes features a median home value of $291,200, which is 19% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Highland Lakes in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,862, 60% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,991 total housing units, 93% are owner-occupied (1,544 units) and 7% are renter-occupied (124 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Highland Lakes shows an unemployment rate of 6.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 3.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Highland Lakes have an average one-way commute time of 44.2 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
50.7% of Highland Lakes residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 3.5% Black or African American, and 2.8% Asian residents, with 13.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Highland Lakes, NJ
Compared to national averages, Highland Lakes has a median household income of $129,500 (72% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $291,200, which is 19% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,862 is 60% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Jersey, Highland Lakes's income is 12% above the state average of $115,667, and home values are 38% below the state median of $469,644.
Why Live in Highland Lakes, NJ?
Highland Lakes offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $129,500, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 50.7% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 3.0%, better than the national average.
Highland Lakes has a population of 3,941 with a median age of 49.3 years. Compare Highland Lakes with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Jersey.
Similar Cities Near Highland Lakes
Cities in New Jersey with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lawrenceville | 3,947 | $118,482 | $413,600 | Compare |
| Oaklyn | 3,934 | $81,514 | $245,000 | Compare |
| Fairview | 3,950 | $170,395 | $595,000 | Compare |
| Great Notch | 3,898 | $151,705 | $556,300 | Compare |
| Singac | 3,987 | $116,136 | $416,200 | Compare |
| Bordentown | 4,006 | $91,208 | $322,300 | Compare |
| Silver Lake CDP (Essex County), New Jersey | 4,034 | $86,615 | $483,700 | Compare |
| Merchantville | 3,815 | $91,607 | $316,300 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in New Jersey
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Highland Lakes With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Highland Lakes
What is the population of Highland Lakes, NJ?
The population of Highland Lakes, NJ is 3,941 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in New Jersey.
What is the median household income in Highland Lakes?
The median household income in Highland Lakes, NJ is $129,500 per year, which is 72% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Highland Lakes?
The median home value in Highland Lakes, NJ is $291,200, which is 19% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Highland Lakes?
The median monthly rent in Highland Lakes, NJ is $1,862, which is 60% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Highland Lakes?
The unemployment rate in Highland Lakes, NJ is 6.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Highland Lakes, NJ a good place to live?
Highland Lakes offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,941 and a median age of 49.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Highland Lakes, NJ?
50.7% of residents in Highland Lakes aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Highland Lakes?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Highland Lakes, NJ: median home value is $291,200 (19% above national), median rent is $1,862/month, and median household income is $129,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Highland Lakes?
The poverty rate in Highland Lakes, NJ is 3.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Highland Lakes, NJ?
Highland Lakes's population is 0.0% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 3.5% Black or African American, 2.8% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 13.8% of residents are foreign-born.