Highland Neighborhood Overview
Overview
Highland is a well-established, primarily residential neighborhood located in the northeastern quadrant of Orangeburg, South Carolina. It is conveniently situated near the intersection of US Highway 301 and Stonewall Jackson Boulevard, providing easy access to downtown Orangeburg, Claflin University, and South Carolina State University. The neighborhood's character is defined by its quiet, tree-lined streets, a mix of mid-century and newer homes, and a strong sense of community among its long-term residents.
The neighborhood's development gained momentum in the mid-20th century, reflecting the post-war growth of Orangeburg. It has historically been and remains a predominantly African American neighborhood, with deep roots in the city's cultural and educational institutions. Its proximity to the historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) has made it a popular choice for faculty, staff, and alumni, contributing to its stable and educated demographic profile over the decades.
Housing & Real Estate
Highland features a varied housing stock that includes modest, single-story ranch homes from the 1950s and 1960s, alongside larger split-level and two-story homes built through the late 20th century. Lot sizes are generally generous, with many properties showcasing mature landscaping. The architectural styles are predominantly traditional and functional, emphasizing practicality and comfort over ornate detail.
The real estate market in Highland is known for its affordability and stability. Home prices typically range from the low $100,000s to the mid-$200,000s, representing significant value for square footage compared to many other regions. The neighborhood is overwhelmingly owner-occupied, with a low rate of rental properties, which contributes to its well-maintained appearance and neighborhood cohesion. Recent trends show steady interest from first-time homebuyers and professionals seeking a quiet, established community close to the city's core amenities.
Schools & Education
Families in the Highland neighborhood are served by the Orangeburg Consolidated School District Five. The specific zoned schools typically include Mellichamp Elementary School, William J. Clark Middle School, and Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School. The district offers various academic and extracurricular programs, and proximity to the neighborhood is a key consideration for many families.
A defining educational feature of the Highland area is its close relationship to two major institutions of higher learning. Claflin University and South Carolina State University are both just minutes away. This proximity not only influences the neighborhood's culture but also provides residents with unique access to university events, libraries, lectures, and cultural programming, enriching the community's intellectual and social landscape.
Parks & Recreation
Residents enjoy convenient access to several city recreational facilities. Hillcrest Recreational Park, located just southwest of the neighborhood, offers tennis courts, a swimming pool, playgrounds, and picnic areas. This park serves as a central hub for community gatherings, youth sports, and family outings. Additionally, the Edisto Memorial Gardens, a renowned regional attraction famous for its roses and riverwalk, is a short drive away in downtown Orangeburg.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the neighborhood's quiet streets are ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling. The larger Orangeburg community provides recreational opportunities at other parks and facilities, including the Orangeburg County YMCA. The proximity to the campuses of SC State and Claflin also allows residents to utilize walking paths and open green spaces on university grounds.
Local Dining & Shopping
Highland's commercial needs are met by a blend of nearby shopping centers and local businesses. The neighborhood is close to the Walmart Supercenter on Stonewall Jackson Boulevard, which serves as a major retail anchor. This area also hosts a variety of national chain stores, fast-food restaurants, and service-oriented businesses, providing everyday convenience for residents.
For a more local dining experience, residents often venture into downtown Orangeburg or other city corridors. While the immediate neighborhood is primarily residential, gems like Duke's Bar-B-Que and other family-owned soul food and Southern cuisine restaurants are within a short driving distance. The presence of the universities also supports a selection of casual cafes and eateries catering to students and faculty, which are accessible to Highland residents.
Who Lives Here
Highland is characterized by a stable population of long-term homeowners, many of whom have lived in the area for decades. The community has strong ties to Orangeburg's educational and professional sectors, with a significant number of residents working at Claflin University, South Carolina State University, the Orangeburg public school system, and local government offices. This creates a neighborhood with a high value placed on education and civic engagement.
The community vibe is one of quiet familiarity and mutual respect. Neighbors often know each other, and the pace of life is relaxed. The neighborhood attracts a diverse mix of individuals, including young families seeking affordable starter homes, mid-career professionals, and retirees who appreciate the central location and lack of through traffic. It is a neighborhood that appeals to those looking for a genuine, unpretentious community with deep roots and a convenient lifestyle in the heart of Orangeburg.
Top Real Estate Agents in Highland, Orangeburg
Merit Criteria — Agents must hold an active license verified by
New York Department of State Division of Licensing Services, maintain a minimum 4.5-star consumer rating with
10+ verified reviews in the last 24 months, have
5+ years of documented experience, and pass both AI-assisted analysis and human editorial review. Fewer than 1% of licensed agents in covered markets qualify. No agent can pay for inclusion or ranking position.
13 agents met the full merit gate for Highland, Orangeburg, NY, selected from over 130,000 licensed New York professionals.
5.0 stars
367+ verified reviews
License: SA638571000
BTG Real Estate
12+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (480) 646-1358
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.btgarizona.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/BTG-Real-Estate
Why selected: Selected for their exceptional 12-year track record, including over 2,211 transactions and a perfect 5-star rating from 367 reviews. Their deep market expertise, media recognition, and active partnership with the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce demonstrate outstanding local leader...
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
277+ verified reviews
License: SA648753000
Selling Made Simple
21+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (480) 772-3610
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.sellingmadesimple.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/SellingMadeSimple
Why selected: Selling Made Simple earns its place through a perfect 5-star rating, substantiated by an impressive 276 verified reviews. The agent brings over two decades of experience, with a noted specialization in buyer's agent services and investment properties.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
101+ verified reviews
License: SA565282000
HomeSmart
20+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (480) 773-5792
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.az-realestategroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AZRealEsateGroup
Why selected: Selected for his perfect 5-star rating across 101 reviews and 19 years of consistent service. His finance expertise and GCAAR recognition, combined with deep community involvement, distinguish him in the Arizona market.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
4.9 stars
95+ verified reviews
License: 1903312
Keller Williams Realty
14+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (559) 429-7254
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://realestatebyapple.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/applecorial
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, with 4.9-star rating across 95 reviews and over a decade of experience. She stands out through active community leadership, organizing an annual back-to-school drive, and maintains a strong multi-platform market presence.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
47+ verified reviews
License: 1253387
Keller Williams Realty
40+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (909) 534-7056
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.barrygoodrich.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Barry%20Goodrich
Why selected: Selected for his 40-year community tenure and deep local market expertise. He demonstrates exceptional performance with 176 transactions and 5-star ratings across 47 reviews, supported by specialized HAFA certification.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
4.9 stars
42+ verified reviews
License: BR544166000
JK Realty
18+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (480) 276-1177
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.jkrealtyaz.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/kalalaos
Why selected: Selected for her deep community engagement through JK Realty's local initiatives, combined with 18 years of expertise and strong quantifiable results including 1,833 transactions and a 4.9-star average from 42 reviews.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
41+ verified reviews
License: 1959122
Downtown Realty
10+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (559) 793-8356
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://itsannaballew/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/annaballew
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community involvement and leadership roles, Anna Ballew also demonstrates exceptional performance with 41 five-star reviews and over a decade of consistent client service.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
39+ verified reviews
License: 1248430
Coldwell Banker Realty
39+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (831) 601-0104
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.themontereypeninsulaproperties.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/BlattandCutino
Why selected: Selected for her deep community roots and 38-year local career, which anchor her exceptional performance of 39 five-star reviews. Her decades of expertise ensure skilled client advocacy and transaction success.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
34+ verified reviews
License: SA508121000
HomeSmart Elite Group
28+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (602) 527-5884
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.jillgilbo.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Jill-Gilbo
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, with 329-career transactions and perfect 5-star rating across 34 reviews. With 28 years of expertise and a versatile sales range up to $2.1M, her specialized staging services and client-focused approach distinguish her in the market.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
4.9 stars
32+ verified reviews
License: SA544168000
JK Realty
22+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (480) 758-3070
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.jkrealtyaz.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Jason-Laos
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, with 1,134 transactions over 22 years and a 4.9-star average from 32 reviews. His expertise across diverse property types and price points, combined with industry recognition and media features, establishes him as a top-tier agent.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
27+ verified reviews
License: 2044177
Downtown Realty
6+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (559) 723-8492
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://gilbert.cacentralvalleyhomesforsale.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/GbritoRE
Why selected: Selected for his active community leadership with the Posse Foundation and Uplift Education, combined with a perfect 5-star rating across 27 reviews and 68 transactions since 2019.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
22+ verified reviews
License: 1724664
20+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (559) 679-0465
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://asatterlee.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/aasatterlee
Why selected: Selected for her leadership as Broker Owner and Co-Founder, driving community development. She combines 17 years of experience with 22 five-star reviews and expertise in luxury sales and new construction.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
20+ verified reviews
License: SA645654000
eXp Realty
12+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (480) 313-0329
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AZRealtorMark
Why selected: Selected for his perfect 5-star rating, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction. His proven performance and established reputation make him a standout professional in his local market.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.