Highland Neighborhood Overview
Neighborhood Guide: Highland, Blue Grass, Virginia
Discover Highland, Blue Grass
Your Guide to Life in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley
1. Welcome to Highland
Nestled in the breathtaking Allegheny Mountains within Highland County, the unincorporated community of Highland, near Blue Grass, Virginia, offers a serene escape into nature's embrace. This area is part of Virginia's "Little Switzerland," known for its rolling farmland, dense forests, and pristine mountain streams. Life here is defined by a profound connection to the land, a tight-knit community spirit, and the stunning seasonal beauty that paints the landscape year-round.
Far from the hustle of city life, Highland provides a sanctuary where neighbors know each other by name and the pace of life allows you to breathe deeply. The community centers around shared values of independence, stewardship of the natural world, and a rich Appalachian heritage. Whether you're drawn by the world-renowned Maple Festival, the endless hiking trails, or simply the promise of peaceful mornings, Highland welcomes you to a simpler, more intentional way of living.
2. Lifestyle & Amenities
The lifestyle in Highland is authentically rural and revolves around outdoor recreation and community gatherings. Residents enjoy direct access to the George Washington National Forest, offering world-class hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, and bird-watching right in their backyard. The South Branch of the Potomac River and its tributaries provide excellent trout fishing. The local calendar is highlighted by cherished events like the Highland County Maple Festival in March, which celebrates the region's sugar maple tradition with crafts, music, and, of course, delicious maple syrup.
While offering a remote feel, essential amenities are found in the nearby communities of Blue Grass, Monterey (the county seat), and just over the West Virginia border. You'll find local general stores, farm stands, small shops, and family-owned restaurants serving hearty, home-cooked meals. For more extensive shopping, healthcare, and services, residents take scenic drives to larger towns such as Staunton or Harrisonburg, treating these trips as part of the rhythm of country living.
3. Real Estate Market
The real estate market in Highland reflects its rural and tranquil setting, offering exceptional value for those seeking space, privacy, and natural beauty. The market is primarily composed of spacious single-family homes on large lots, rustic cabins, and working farms with sweeping mountain views. Properties often include substantial acreage, providing room for gardening, livestock, or simply enjoying your own private slice of the wilderness.
The median home value in Highland is approximately $83,800, making it one of the most affordable areas in Virginia for homeownership. This value is complemented by a median household income of around $56,667, which aligns well with the cost of living and allows residents to enjoy a comfortable, sustainable lifestyle without the financial pressures common in urban and suburban markets.
4. Schools & Education
Education in Highland is provided by Highland County Public Schools, a small, close-knit district where students receive significant individual attention. The district is known for its dedicated teachers, high community involvement, and strong academic and vocational programs that reflect the region's character. Students often benefit from outdoor and agricultural learning opportunities that leverage the stunning local environment as an extended classroom.
The school community is central to local life, with strong support for sports, arts, and extracurricular activities. For higher education, the region is within a reasonable driving distance of several respected institutions, including Blue Ridge Community College, James Madison University in Harrisonburg, and Washington & Lee University in Lexington. This proximity allows for continuing education and cultural enrichment while calling the peaceful mountains home.
5. Transportation & Connectivity
Transportation in Highland is car-dependent, as is typical for rural mountain communities. The journey along winding, scenic roads like U.S. Route 220 and State Route 640 is part of the daily experience, offering beautiful vistas with every commute. Residents plan their trips thoughtfully, combining errands to towns like Monterey or Staunton, which are about a 30-45 minute drive away for major shopping, healthcare, and government services.
While the area offers a true "getaway" feel, connectivity is available. Internet service is provided by regional providers, with satellite and fixed wireless being common options to bridge the gaps in more remote hollows. The nearest major interstate (I-64) is about an hour's drive, providing access to Charlottesville and the Shenandoah Valley to the east and West Virginia to the west. The closest commercial airports are in Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (SHD) and Dulles International (IAD) for longer trips.
6. Why Choose Highland
Choosing Highland is a choice for a life defined by nature, community, and authenticity. It is for those who value star-filled night skies over streetlights, the sound of a creek over traffic, and a handshake over a hurried transaction. It represents an opportunity to own a substantial piece of land and a home at a remarkable value, freeing up resources to enjoy life's experiences rather than just its possessions.
This community is not for everyone—it requires self-reliance and an appreciation for seasonal changes and rural rhythms. But for those seeking to escape the noise and pressure of modern urban life, to raise a family in a safe, environment-focused setting, or to find a peaceful retirement haven, Highland, Virginia, offers a uniquely rewarding and affordable mountain lifestyle that is increasingly rare to find.
Top Real Estate Agents in Highland, Blue Grass
Merit Criteria — Agents must hold an active license verified by
Virginia Real Estate Board (VREB), 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, Blue Grass, VA, selected from over 65,000 licensed Virginia 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.