Highlands Neighborhood Overview
The Highlands neighborhood is one of Harrisburg's most picturesque and sought-after residential areas. Perched atop the city's western hill, it offers stunning panoramic views of the Susquehanna River and the downtown skyline. Historically developed in the early 20th century, the neighborhood is characterized by its winding, tree-lined streets, mature landscaping, and a sense of serene seclusion, despite being just minutes from the city center. Its elevated position and architectural charm have earned it a reputation as one of the capital city's premier addresses.
Geographically, the Highlands is bordered by the bustling Union Deposit Road commercial corridor to the north and the expansive grounds of the Pennsylvania State Hospital to the south, which provides a significant buffer of green space. This location provides residents with easy access to major routes like I-81 and Route 322, facilitating commutes to downtown Harrisburg, the West Shore, or Hershey. The neighborhood's history is reflected in its diverse housing styles, from grand Tudors and Colonials to more modest Cape Cods, telling the story of Harrisburg's growth through the decades.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in the Highlands is notably varied and architecturally distinct, featuring a rich collection of Tudor Revival, Colonial, Cape Cod, and Craftsman-style homes. Many properties are situated on generous, sloping lots with mature trees, offering both privacy and character. The neighborhood is predominantly composed of single-family homes, with a very low concentration of multi-unit buildings, preserving its quiet, residential feel. Duplexes and some larger apartment complexes can be found on its periphery.
Real estate in the Highlands commands a premium compared to many other Harrisburg neighborhoods, with home prices typically ranging from the mid-$200,000s for smaller, updated homes to well over $500,000 for larger, meticulously maintained properties with prime views. The market is strongly owner-occupied, with a high rate of homeownership. Recent trends show consistent demand, with homes often selling quickly, driven by the area's enduring appeal, top-rated schools, and its unique combination of urban proximity and suburban tranquility.
Schools & Education
The Highlands is served by the highly regarded Central Dauphin School District, a significant draw for families. Students typically attend Highlands Elementary School, located conveniently within the neighborhood itself, which fosters a strong community connection. From there, students progress to Central Dauphin Middle School and Central Dauphin High School, both known for robust academic programs, arts, and athletics.
In addition to the strong public school system, several private and parochial school options are nearby, including the Harrisburg Academy and St. Margaret Mary School. The neighborhood's proximity to Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) and Penn State Harrisburg also provides accessible higher education and lifelong learning opportunities for residents. The emphasis on quality education is a cornerstone of the community's identity.
Parks & Recreation
While the Highlands itself is more residential, it is surrounded by and provides easy access to significant recreational assets. The large, open grounds of the neighboring Pennsylvania State Hospital campus offer informal green space for walking and leisure. A major highlight is the sprawling 1,100-acre Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area, located just to the south, which features over 12 miles of hiking trails through mature forest, perfect for hiking, trail running, and birdwatching.
For organized sports and playgrounds, residents often utilize facilities at nearby Central Dauphin Middle and High Schools or venture to other parks within the Central Dauphin recreation system. The neighborhood's winding, hilly streets are popular with walkers and joggers who enjoy the scenic views and quiet atmosphere. The accessibility to major roadways also makes trips to the Susquehanna Riverfront or Blue Mountain for skiing and hiking convenient.
Local Dining & Shopping
Daily conveniences and dining are anchored by the Union Deposit Road corridor, which runs along the northern edge of the neighborhood. Here, residents find a mix of national retailers, grocery stores like Giant and Karns Foods, and essential services. For a more local dining experience, the area offers a variety of casual and family-friendly restaurants, from classic pizzerias and diners to popular chains.
For a wider array of boutique shopping, specialty dining, and cafes, residents typically take a short drive to downtown Harrisburg's Restaurant Row on 2nd Street, the burgeoning Midtown district, or the West Shore Plaza. The neighborhood's commercial scene is defined more by practicality and convenience, with the understanding that a vast selection of metropolitan amenities is only a brief drive away, allowing the Highlands to maintain its peaceful residential character.
Who Lives Here
The Highlands attracts a mix of established professionals, families, and long-time residents who value stability, quality schools, and a serene living environment. The population tends to be well-educated, with many residents working in state government, healthcare, law, and professional services in the capital region. There is a strong sense of community pride and neighborhood identity, often evidenced by well-kept properties and active participation in local affairs.
The overall vibe is one of quiet, understated elegance and neighborliness. It draws those seeking a true neighborhood feel—where people know one another—without sacrificing the conveniences of city living. It is particularly appealing to individuals and families who want a suburban lifestyle with larger lots and top-tier schools, but who also appreciate being within Harrisburg's city limits and just a quick trip from the energy of downtown.
Top Real Estate Agents in Highlands, Harrisburg
10 agents met the full merit gate for Highlands, Harrisburg, NC, selected from over 100,000 licensed North Carolina professionals.
Contact
Phone: (626) 393-5695
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.ashrizk.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ash%20Rizk
Why selected: Selected for his active community development presence and real estate education initiatives. He is further distinguished by and recognition as a multi-year LA Business Journal Leader of Influence.
Community & Leadership
Knowledge sharing contributor at Real Estate Industry Education[6]
Mentor at Emerging Real Estate Professionals[6]
Notable Achievements
California Real Estate License
International Society of Excellence Award
Top 1,000 Real Estate Agents and Teams
127 Five-Star Reviews
RealTrends Top 1,000 Recognition
#3 Individual Agent Ranking
#14 Agent at Coldwell Banker Realty
#6 Agent in Los Angeles County
Leaders of Influence Residential Real Estate Broker
Leaders of Influence - Residential Real Estate Brokers
Verified Specialties
Commercial Properties, Staging, Property Management, Technology-driven service, Mortgage banking background, Computer science expertise, Technical transaction management, luxury homes, residential sales, buyer representation, seller representation, market analysis, technology-driven transactions, first-time buyers, investment properties, Computer Science background, mortgage banking, technical expertise, analytical approach, First-time homebuyers, Luxury residential, Investment properties, Market analysis[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (650) 280-8888
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://theownteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/WILSONLEUNGREALTOR
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement and leadership roles, combined with exceptional performance including a and.
Notable Achievements
14 Years of Real Estate Practice
770 Total Transactions
98 Recent Sales
124 Five-Star Reviews
Property Management Specialist
Verified Specialties
Property Management[4]
Cities Served
Millbrae
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (909) 378-5520
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.dannyhy.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/DannyHy
Why selected: Selected for his career and, Andy Yit is distinguished by his deep community involvement and leadership roles. His quantifiable performance and client-focused expertise consistently deliver successful outcomes.
Notable Achievements
34+ Years Real Estate Experience
108 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
residential, commercial, lease, buyers, sellers, investors[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 679-3239
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.garyzuo.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Gary%20Zuo
Why selected: Selected for his exceptional community leadership and charitable work, which is our highest-ranking criterion. He combines this with a, and a $1.9M average sale price in the luxury market.
Notable Achievements
214 Career Transactions with $1.9 average sale price
30 Annual Transactions
RealTrends Verified National Ranking
75 Five-Star Reviews
Luxury Market Specialist
Verified Specialties
Luxury Properties[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 940-6488
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/alvinxu888
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, and strong performance track record since 2011. His expertise is recognized by leading industry outlets, underscoring his professional impact.
Notable Achievements
13+ Years Active in Real Estate
5-Star Rating Achievement
5-star Rating
Verified Specialties
Property Management, residential real estate, buyer representation, seller representation, client education, buying, selling[4]
Cities Served
Alhambra
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 272-2365
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.byrealiv.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/user415486
Why selected: Selected for his deep community roots and leadership since 2005, Arnold Kwan is a top 1.5% nationwide agent with a and over $250M in sales.
Notable Achievements
Bachelor's Degree Business Economics
$250+ Million in Sales Volume
5-Star Rating Perfect Record
Top 1.5% Agents Nationwide
Verified Specialties
residential real estate, diverse price points, various property types, luxury homes, buying, selling, investment properties, market analysis[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (818) 321-0123
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/aliuHomes
Why selected: Selected for his deep community commitment and leadership. He combines a across with over two decades of experience and multilingual, business-educated client service.
Community & Leadership
Board Member at Local Association of Realtors[6]
Committee Member at Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) - Local Chapter[6]
Volunteer Advisor at Local Community Housing Non-Profit[6]
Mentor at Coldwell Banker Office or Local Real Estate School[6]
Notable Achievements
Top Producing Agent Award
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Commercial Properties, Investment Properties, Rentals[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 461-2128
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Amy%20Wu
Why selected: Selected for her active support of local community initiatives and charitable efforts, reflecting a high commitment to engagement. She combines this with a and nearly a decade of dedicated market expertise.
Community & Leadership
supporter at Local community initiatives[6]
Notable Achievements
5-Star Rating Maintenance
Verified Specialties
Staging, residential transactions, buyer representation, seller representation, guaranteed sale program[4]
Cities Served
Rosemead
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 888-9808
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://mimisongrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Mimi%20Song%20SuperTeam
Why selected: Selected for her elite RE/MAX International Awards, including the Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award and status as a Top 100 Producer nationwide. She maintains a, demonstrating consistent client service excellence.
Notable Achievements
RE/MAX Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award
Top 100 Producer Nationwide
RE/MAX Chairman's Club Award
Verified Specialties
Property Management, Investment Properties, Luxury Homes, New Construction, buyers, sellers, market analysis, client advocacy, Luxury homes, Distressed properties, REO properties, residential real estate, client service[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 378-2138
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/amberhh
Why selected: Selected for her of dedicated community service and leadership roles, combined with a. Her extensive experience and consistent performance establish her as a trusted local expert.
Verified Specialties
Property Management[4]
Cities Served
Arcadia
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).