If you’re thinking about putting down roots in Lincoln, NE, the Highlands neighborhood on the northwest side of the city deserves a spot high on your list. Tucked just north of I-80 and west of Highway 34, Highlands offers a harmony of suburban comfort, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to much of what Lincoln has to offer. Here’s what it’s really like to live in Highlands, from the viewpoint of someone who calls Lincoln home.
Community Vibe: Friendly, Relaxed, and Neighborly
Highlands strikes a balance between upbeat suburban newness and a grounded, small-town atmosphere. Neighbors wave when you walk by. Kids ride their bikes and scooters along the winding streets like W. Adams Street, NW 7th, and NW 12th. There’s a sense of pride—from the well-kept lawns to block-wide yard sales each summer, and potluck gatherings at the Highlands Community Church.
Residents often describe the neighborhood as welcoming, with a healthy sense of community. If you’re new, you’ll likely get an introduction from a neighbor or a wave from a parent waiting for the school bus with their child. The neighborhood association is active, helping to organize events or advocate for local improvements.
Types of Housing: Options for Every Stage of Life
Highlands is known for its variety of housing options. You’ll see:
- Single-family homes built from the late ‘90s to today, many with spacious yards and modern layouts.
- Ranches, two-stories, and split-levels along streets like NW 11th, NW 14th, and Masters Drive.
- Affordable townhomes and duplexes—ideal for young professionals and downsizers.
- Newer developments cropping up nearer to 1st Street and Fletcher, featuring energy-efficient designs.
While Highlands is largely owner-occupied, you’ll also find rentals and apartments, especially near major roads. No matter your housing style, chances are you’ll find something that fits your needs here.
Walkability and Getting Around
One of Highlands’ greatest strengths is its pedestrian-friendly design. Wide sidewalks wind along interior streets, making it easy for residents to stroll, exercise, or walk the dog. The Highlands Golf Course area is particularly scenic, with paved trails offering views of the fairways and mature trees.
For errands, the Highlands neighborhood centers around the intersection of NW 12th and Superior Street, which is home to grocery stores like Russ’s Market, a bank, coffee shops, and popular takeout spots. Though you’ll still need a car for anything outside daily basics, many families appreciate the ability to walk or bike to parks, schools, and the grocery store without crossing any busy highways.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Highlands is a magnet for growing families thanks to its reputable schools, active parks, and overall sense of safety. The area is served by:
- Kooser Elementary—tucked at NW 8th and W. Fletcher, known for dedicated staff and active parent involvement.
- Goodrich Middle School and North Star High School—just a short drive south on 14th Street.
Kids here can safely walk or bike to school. You’ll often see clusters of backpacks and bikes near the crosswalks on a sunny morning. Beyond academics, Highlands offers plenty for kids: playgrounds, sports fields, and organized youth activities at nearby recreation centers.
Parks and Green Spaces
If you love the outdoors, Highlands will not disappoint. The area boasts several parks and open spaces:
- Highlands Park, right off NW 12th, is the social heartbeat of the neighborhood. It features sports fields, a playground, tennis courts, and an impressive splash pad for hot summer afternoons.
- Highlands Golf Course is teeming with walkers, joggers, and the occasional flock of Canada geese, even off-season.
- The paved Bison Trail links Highlands to the rest of Lincoln’s extensive trail system, offering a straight shot for biking or jogging clear down to downtown.
Plenty of green space gives the neighborhood a peaceful, open feel—yard games, frisbee, or just lounging with a book under a cottonwood tree are Lincoln traditions alive and well in Highlands.
Safety: Peace of Mind
Safety is often a top concern when choosing a new home, and Highlands shines here. The neighborhood boasts low crime rates compared to the city average. Street lighting is ample, and residents are proactive about looking out for each other.
Lincoln Police Department’s NW Team regularly patrols the area and partners with the Highlands Neighborhood Association for safety forums and community outreach. Whether you’re letting the kids play in the yard or heading out after dark for a jog, you’ll likely feel reassured living here.
Access to Downtown and Major Employers
Commuters who work in downtown Lincoln or points north will appreciate Highlands’ location. It’s just a 10–15 minute drive down Superior or Cornhusker Highway into the city center, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln campus, or major employers like Bryan Health and the State of Nebraska offices.
For trips out of town, access to I-80 is less than five minutes away, so getting to Omaha or exploring the countryside is simple and efficient. Public transportation is available via StarTran, though most residents use personal vehicles for convenience.
What Residents Love Most
Ask Highlands locals what they enjoy, and you’ll hear some recurring themes:
- “The parks and green spaces—my family is always outside together.”
- “Great neighbors and a real sense of community. We look out for one another.”
- “Close enough to everything, but quiet and peaceful.”
- “Excellent schools and plenty of activities for my kids—sports, scouts, dance, you name it.”
The overall appeal is clear: Highlands is a community designed for connection. It offers all the comforts of suburban life—without sacrificing convenience or the chance to know your neighbors.
Final Thoughts: Is Highlands Right for You?
If you’re seeking a place in Lincoln that blends the best of family-friendly suburban living with community spirit and practical convenience, Highlands is well worth a look. Whether you’re starting a family, downsizing, or just looking for a quieter pace—rest assured, you’ll find yourself among friends.
Thinking about making Highlands your new home? Take a drive down NW 12th, grab a coffee at the local shop, and stroll through Highlands Park. You’ll see why so many choose to call this corner of Lincoln home.