Highland features a variety of housing options, including single detached homes, townhouses, and apartment buildings with primarily one- and two-bedroom layouts. The neighborhood benefits from well-developed cycling infrastructure, making bicycle travel convenient. Public transportation options, such as nearby rapid transit stations and bus lines, provide additional connectivity. Residents have access to multiple grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes within easy reach. Educational institutions, including primary and secondary schools, are located close by throughout the neighborhood. The area offers a calm and quiet atmosphere, complemented by nearby green spaces where outdoor relaxation is possible. Parking is uncomplicated, and major highways are within a short driving distance.
Highland is a "jack-of-all-trades" when it comes to the ambience of this area. Although the ambience is not the most lively in this part of Austin finding one of the around 10 nightlife venues is very easy as they are generally located very close by. Highland is reasonably quiet, as there are low levels of noise from traffic, although there are still several louder sections, especially near the railway line. This neighborhood also features not that much greenery; to be more specific, residents will find that the majority of streets have below average tree coverage. However, it is easy to get to public green spaces from the majority of locations within the neighborhood since there are about 20 of them nearby for residents to relax in.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
Formerly a shopping mall, the Highland Campus of Austin Community College is now a cutting-edge education hub featuring modern classrooms, collaborative spaces, and the ACCelerator—the largest computer lab in the nation—with direct access to public transit and events that energize the neighborhood.
Located on Middle Fiskville Road, Black Star Co-op is the world’s first cooperatively-owned and worker self-managed brewpub, offering a wide menu of locally sourced dishes and craft beers, making it a Highland staple for foodies and beer enthusiasts alike.
Nestled in the Highland neighborhood, Galaxy Theatres at Highland is a modern movie theater offering luxury seating and a curated mix of blockbuster and independent films, providing a fun community hangout near ACC and the Highland Mall redevelopment.
Served by the Capital MetroRail Red Line, the Highland Station offers residents convenient transit access to downtown Austin and the greater metro area, making Highland an ideal spot for commuters and those looking to ditch the car.
Stretching along Middle Fiskville Road, The Linc Shopping Center blends diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment—featuring standout spots like Pluckers Wing Bar, Easy Tiger, and the beloved local arcade Moviehouse & Eatery—all within walking distance of Highland’s residential core.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
Highland residents can reach Austin’s signature music festival without leaving the city, with two weekends of performances, food vendors, art, and family activities in Zilker Park. It is a major local event for discovering touring artists and Austin musicians while enjoying one of the city’s best-known outdoor settings.
View event details →This nearby downtown Oktoberfest offers live bands, German food and beer, historic bowling lanes, steinholding contests, sausage tastings, and children’s games. Its central location makes it a convenient fall outing from Highland, especially for residents seeking a festive event that works for both adults and families.
View event details →Highland residents can enjoy Austin’s long-running Día de los Muertos celebration a short trip downtown. The free, all-ages event combines a colorful procession, traditional dance and music, local art, food, decorated altars, and hands-on cultural activities, making it especially appealing for families and visitors wanting an authentic Austin tradition.
View event details →This downtown cultural festival gives Highland residents an easy opportunity to sample Japanese food, browse merchandise, hear live music, and participate in a lively community gathering. Republic Square is accessible by car, bike, or transit, and the event pairs well with other downtown activities on the same Saturday.
View event details →Residents of Highland can attend screenings, filmmaker Q&As, panels, and storytelling events throughout downtown during one of Austin’s most distinctive annual cultural festivals. The convenient central venues make it a strong evening or weekend option for movie lovers, aspiring writers, and anyone interested in independent film and creative conversations.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Highland
Local characteristics and demographics for Highland
