Highland, Lake County, IN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
28,794
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$88,032/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,932
0.5% year-over-year change

Highland population

How many people live in Highland

Highland is home to 28,794 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47% of Highland locals are male, and 53% are female.

Total population
28,794
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47%
13,543
Female
53%
15,251
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,543 47% -2.1%
Female 15,251 53% 1.0%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Highland is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 10% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 28.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
45
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
10%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
28.3%
Over 65
21.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,477 15.6% 0.1%
15 to 24 2,883 10% -5.5%
25 to 44 7,115 24.7% 1.4%
45 to 64 8,155 28.3% -2.9%
Over 65 6,164 21.4% 2.8%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Highland, 92.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.7% of locals are Caucasian, 8.9% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.9%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 26,683 92.7% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,417 4.9% -2.0%
Non-citizens 694 2.4% -9.2%
Racial breakdown
White
74.7%
Black or African American
8.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.2%
Other
4.5%
Value Percent
White 21,521 74.7%
Black or African American 2,559 8.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 22 0.1%
Asian 451 1.6%
Two or more races 2,945 10.2%
Other 1,296 4.5%

Households in Highland

A peek inside Highland households

Highland has 12,368 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.1% are families, while the remaining 34.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,368
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,311
Family households
8,057
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,311 34.9% 5.7%
Family households 8,057 65.1% -2.0%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Highland

The housing landscape of Highland

Highland's housing consists of 12,932 units, with 74.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.2% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,932
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,619 74.4%
1 unit, attached 672 5.2%
2 units 140 1.1%
3 or 4 units 211 1.6%
5 to 9 units 900 7%
10 to 19 units 799 6.2%
20 to 49 units 480 3.7%
50 or more units 50 0.4%
Mobile home 61 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
17
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Highland

In Highland, the median construction year is 1976. About 5.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 656 5.1% 8.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 683 5.3% -18.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,772 21.4% -3.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,606 20.2% 3.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,053 15.9% 18.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,244 9.6% -3.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,306 10.1% -2.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,272 9.8% 1.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 323 2.5% -21.0%
Built in 2020 or later 17 0.1% N/A
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Highland occupancy rates

Out of the 12,368 occupied housing units in Highland, 80.4% are owner-occupied, while 19.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,368
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,425
Owner occupied
9,943
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,425 19.6% -4.0%
Owner occupied 9,943 80.4% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
4.4%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Highland housing costs

Housing costs in Highland come to a median of $1,190 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,462.

Median housing costs per month
$1,190/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Highland
$1,462/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Highland

Highland education at a glance

About 35.6% of the population in Highland went to high school, while 23.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 19.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 480 2.1% -14.6%
High school diploma 8,238 35.6% 2.7%
College diploma 5,473 23.6% -3.0%
Associate degree 2,267 9.8% 0.6%
Bachelor's degree 4,599 19.8% 4.7%
Graduate degree 2,117 9.1% -13.6%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Highland

How much people earn in Highland

The average annual household income in Highland was $101,700 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $88,032, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Highland
$101,700/year
4.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Highland
$88,032/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Highland income by age

In Highland, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $105,748. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $97,896 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $79,879, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $62,171 in earnings. Overall, 88.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $79,879 30.7%
25 - 44 $105,748 24.0%
45 - 64 $97,896 -1.9%
Over 65 $62,171 15.9%
Above poverty level
25,185
Below poverty level
3,149
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 25,185 88.9% -3.0%
Below poverty level 3,149 11.1% 26.4%

Average renter income in Highland

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Highland, their median household income was $53,026 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$53,026
Rent-to-income ratio
33.1%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Highland

Workforce and job types in Highland

The job market in Highland is powered by 14,011 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.3% run their own businesses, 72.6% are employed by private companies, and 13.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,011
-2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
10,708
Blue collar
3,303
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,708 76.4% -1.6%
Blue collar 3,303 23.6% -6.0%
Employer type
Self employees
6.3%
Private companies
72.6%
Governmental workers
13.1%
Not for profit companies
8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 880 6.3% 23.6%
Private companies 10,170 72.6% -3.5%
Governmental workers 1,840 13.1% -5.5%
Not for profit companies 1,121 8% -5.9%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
5.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Highland stands at 4.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Highland

How people get around in Highland

In Highland, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 97.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 11,884 97.1% -5.0%
Taxicab 63 0.5% 65.8%
Bus or trolleybus 20 0.2% 233.3%
Railroad 197 1.6% 23.1%
Motorcycle 15 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 32 0.3% 14.3%
Walk 33 0.3% 26.9%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Highland by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
46322 23,680 10,440 $78,062 $95,469

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FAQs about Highland demographics 

What is the total population of Highland?

Highland has a total population of 28,794 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Highland?

The gender ratio in Highland is as follows:
  • 47% males (13,543 residents)
  • 53% females (15,251 residents)

What is the median age in Highland?

The median age in Highland is 45.

What is the age distribution of the population in Highland?

The age distribution in Highland is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (4,477 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10% (2,883 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (7,115 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.3% (8,155 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.4% (6,164 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Highland?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Highland is as follows:
  • White: 74.7% (21,521 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.9% (2,559 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (22 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (451 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.2% (2,945 residents)
  • Other: 4.5% (1,296 residents)

What percentage of the population in Highland are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.7% of the population in Highland.

How many housing units are there in Highland?

There are 12,932 housing units in Highland, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Highland and what is the average household size?

Highland has a total of 12,368 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Highland?

Highland has a median household income of $88,032, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Highland?

The employment rate is 95.2% in Highland, with a workforce of 14,011 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.4% (10,708 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.6% (3,303 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.3% (880 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.6% (10,170 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.1% (1,840 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8% (1,121 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025