Honest Pros and Cons of Living in Highland, Utah

Located 30 miles south of Salt Lake City, Highland, Utah, is an up-and-coming area that is increasingly popular with residents who want to enjoy the amenities and upscale lifestyle the big city offers while still being surrounded by mountain views. Living in Highland, Utah, provides access to many outdoor recreation activities, including horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking.

With gorgeous mountain ranges and miles of winding walking paths, Highland is also home to charming small businesses and eateries. While Highland is an in-demand community with a wealth of features and benefits, there are some downsides to be aware of. This guide highlights the many pros of living in Highland and some points of reference to keep in mind.

Peaceful and inviting, Highland is a community that is imbued with charm. Here are the greatest pros of living in Highland, Utah.

One of the most obvious benefits of living in Highland is the opportunity to enjoy the unparalleled beauty of the surrounding countryside. Highland is encased by mountains on either side, with narrow canyons winding between them. There's nothing quite like the Utah sky, and when you call Highland home, you'll never want for striking scenery.

Highland is perfect for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. From kayaking to horseback riding, there are dozens of ways to enjoy the area. Many residents love exploring Tibble Fork Reservoir, a freshwater lake in the American Fork Canyon. From hiking, mountain biking, and fishing to ATV riding, there's something for everyone at Tibble Fork Reservoir.

The Timpanogos Cave National Monument is another must-see in Highland. It features an extensive cave system, including three linked caverns. To gain access to the cave, you'll need to sign up for one of the many guided tours that are offered daily. Don't forget a camera to document the stalactites you'll encounter along the way.

Homes in Highland are affordable and spacious, perfect for families seeking large homes to grow into. According to the United States Census Bureau, the median home cost is around $339,700. There's also a wide variety of homes for sale in the area, from single-family residences to compounds designed for doctors and lawyers who want to get away from it all while still being able to access the amenities of nearby Salt Lake City.

The city of Highland has a vibrant residential community with a neighborly spirit that is evident to all who visit the area. Throughout the year, the city hosts fun community events, including an Easter egg hunt at Heritage Park, an Arbor Day tree-planting event, and a trick-or-treat event. According to the City of Highland's official website, many of these community events revolve around the great outdoors, with residents encouraged to work together to keep their city clean, green, and thriving.

While living in Highland, Utah, is a dream come true for many residents, there are a few things to consider when planning your move here.

Even though Highland is about 30 minutes outside Salt Lake City, some might find the drive to many shopping and dining options a bit excessive. Salt Lake City is the most populous city in Utah, with hundreds of boutiques and five-star restaurants. Still, Highland residents can enjoy delicious dining options without leaving the city limits. From Tex-Mex restaurants like La Costa to laid-back Thai restaurants, there are plenty of ways to indulge without taking to the highway. If you prefer to cook at home in your chef's kitchen, the many farmer's markets offer ample opportunities to grab fresh vegetables and herbs.

Despite the sheer beauty of the setting, the proximity of Salt Lake City means that Highland residents could struggle with occasional allergies. Salt Lake City has long had an issue with air quality due to the large population of the city, as well as the strong temperature inversions from the nearby Great Basin. Due to these issues, Salt Lake City is considered to have some of the worst air quality in the United States. While Highland's air is slightly cleaner, those with existing allergies could experience occasional flare-ups.

If you love whipping up some s'mores over an open flame on occasion, you might have to make some adjustments if you choose to live in Highland. Here, residents must be vigilant about wildfires. Fireworks are one of the most common causes of wildfires, and depending on conditions outdoors, restrictions might be placed on the use of fireworks at certain times of the year.

If you think that a move to Highland could be for you, start preparing now. One of the best ways to prepare for living in Highland is to contact an established area Realtor. A Realtor can work with you to finalize a list of your dream home "musts" and help you learn more about the area. If you're looking for great schools and recreation opportunities, a Utah-based Realtor can help you find the ideal subdivision for you. You can also utilize their vast network of connections to assist you in making a seamless transition to your new area.

In addition to contacting a Realtor, do your own research into the area. If possible, spend a day or more in Highland, meeting area business owners and strolling the neighborhoods to learn more about the vibe and ambiance of the community. Once you get a feel for the city and the people, you'll be better prepared to make your move.

Living in Highland, Utah, can open up a world of possibilities.

Alicia Keller is a Utah Realtor with the experience you need to find your home in Highland. With an established history of selling luxury homes in Highland and the surrounding areas, Alicia can help you find the perfect home to suit your unique needs. Contact Alicia Keller today to start your search!