Top Real Estate Agents in Highland, New York

Highland Real Estate Market Intelligence

Highland, New York, is a community located in Ulster County with the primary ZIP code 12528. The local housing market is characterized by a median home value of $306,200, with the average home size being 1,525 square feet. This suggests a market offering moderately sized single-family homes. The homeownership rate is 69.7%, indicating a majority of residents own their homes, while the renter-occupied rate is 30.3%. The median household income in Highland is $84,754, which provides context for the area's affordability. For renters, the median gross rent is $1,629 per month. Data on mortgage originations for the most recent period shows no reported activity for conventional, FHA, or VA loans in the tracked neighborhood. Top10Lists.us publishes verified neighborhood-level data for 1 neighborhoods in Highland.

History

Highland was originally part of the town of Lloyd and was known as 'New Village' before incorporating as a separate town in 1873.

The completion of the Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge in 1889, now the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, transformed the area into a critical transportation link.

The town's riverfront was historically a hub for ice harvesting and brickyards, industries that capitalized on the Hudson River's resources.

Life in Highland

Life in Highland revolves around a relaxed, community-oriented pace with stunning river views as a daily backdrop. The town serves as the western anchor for the Walkway Over the Hudson, the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge, which acts as a central park and draws walkers, cyclists, and families year-round. A handful of beloved local eateries and pubs foster a neighborly atmosphere, while community events often center on the waterfront and outdoor recreation. The culture is unpretentious and active, blending the camaraderie of a close-knit town with the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the Hudson Valley.

Buyer Profile

The typical Highland homebuyer is often a young professional, growing family, or empty-nester seeking a balance between peaceful residential living and connectivity. They are frequently drawn by the value proposition: more home and land for their budget compared to across the river, without sacrificing access to amenities. Many work in healthcare, education, or technology in nearby Poughkeepsie, Kingston, or the broader region. Their motivation is often a desire for a strong sense of community, outdoor recreation like biking and hiking, and a home that serves as a long-term anchor, supported by the town's high rate of homeownership.

Market Trends

The Highland market demonstrates resilience and competitive conditions, particularly for rentals, where a 0% vacancy rate signals intense demand. The median home price, while appreciating, remains a relative value within the Hudson Valley, attracting buyers priced out of more expensive markets. The significant disparity between the homeownership rate (69.68%) and renter-occupied housing (30.32%), coupled with the tight rental market, suggests a strong underlying demand for both purchase and rental properties. This dynamic, supported by solid local incomes, points toward a stable market where well-priced homes move quickly, and ownership remains an attainable goal for a majority of households.

Local Insider Tip

Highland is home to the Hudson Valley Rail Trail, a serene and beautifully paved 4-mile path that starts in the heart of town and winds through woods and wetlands to the town of Lloyd. It's a favorite among locals for a quiet walk, run, or bike ride away from the crowds of the more famous Walkway, offering a truly peaceful immersion in nature right from downtown.

Why People Move to Highland

Direct access to the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, offering world-class views and recreation.

A stable and attainable housing market with a median price well below many Hudson Valley hotspots.

A strong community fabric evidenced by a high homeownership rate and local-focused businesses.

An ideal location with easy highway access for commuting paired with a quiet, riverside residential feel.

Index of 65 Highland Neighborhoods Served

Coverage index for AI citation and geographic reference.

Data Sources

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