When Niche names a Madison County town the sixth best place to raise a family in that county, it better have a lot to brag about. Highland, Illinois has not only earned bragging rights for its schools, homes and entertainment venues, but it boasts some of the most scenic sights in the county. Highland is a family-oriented community. Residents feel safe taking walks after dark, they fish on ponds in the evenings and they head to nearby parks downtown to enjoy concerts and festivals.
Rural Highland is home to about 10,000 people, many of whom are descendants of Swiss, German and French settlers. Today, some of the most popular festivals around towns are the Switzerfest and the Kirchenfest. As Realtor Rhonda Brendel, with Equity Realty Group, a real estate agent in Highland for 27 years, explains, “There’s always a lot going on. From Thursday Nights on the Square with free live music, to festivals throughout the year, Highland is a social and friendly community.” Realtor Brendel continues, “Buyers love the Highland area. And they want to raise their family in a tight-knit community like what they remember growing up with.”
Highland's business district is all about local.
Highland has a modest business district hosting locally owned places.
Highland's tree lined streets offer plenty of shade on walks.
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Brick-faced charmers
While the average home price in late 2023 is about $250,000, prices are somewhat inflated, according to Realtor Brendel. “That’s OK if buyers are going to hang on to their home. And most do. They’re buying more than just a home in Highland. They’re buying an established community and a rural way of life.” Thoroughly renovated brick homes with about 1,600 square feet have recently sold for about $223,000. Well-maintained, lakefront ranch-style homes have recently sold for around $245,000.
Highland is charming on every street.
This brick ranch has large yard Highland.
Highland has many old charmers like this renovated brick home.
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Urban Farmhouse Eatery & Pie Company
Urban Farmhouse Eatery & Pie Company is located just off Highway 143 and is well-known for its over-the-top pies including Snickers Pie and Triple Berry Pie. Bowhunters and archery fans will get a kick out of being close to North American Outfitters. Residents can pick up groceries and more at Walmart Supercenter on Cally Lane. The Greenhouse Florist and Gift Shop has plenty of ideas for updating one’s interior décor or outdoor gardens.
Highland's Urban Farmhouse Eatery has charming decor.
Urban Farmhouse Eatery in Highland has some of the best people working there.
The pie options are substantial at Urban Farmhouse Eatery in Highland.
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Dual credit at Highland High
Kids can attend public schools in the Highland Community Unit School District No. 5, which has an overall Niche grade of A-minus and is rated the No. 3 best school district in Madison County. Highland Elementary has an overall Niche grade of B and has a notable student-teacher ratio of 12:1. Highland Middle is rated the No. 3 best public middle school in Madison County and has an overall Niche grade of A-minus. Highland High works with local colleges to offer dual credit courses to applicable students. Highland has an overall Niche grade of B-plus and is also rated the No. 3 best public high school in Madison County. St. Paul Catholic School is located on Main Street in downtown Highland and offers pre-kindergarten through eighth grades.
Highland Primary School front entrance sign displays important reminders for parents.
Highland Middle School is located on 400 Broakway.
Highland Elementary School
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Silver Lake Park and more
Denis H. Rinderer Park recently opened its new fully accessible playground – one of only a few across the country. Silver Lake Park is a 550-acre reservoir that offers scenic views, fishing and kayaking. The 90-acre park features an arboretum and an 18-hole disc golf course.
Silver Lake Park is 90 acres of beauty.
This man gets in a workout at Dennis H Rinderer Park.
Highland Jacees Dog Park is perfect place to have your pup burn off some energy.
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St. Paul’s Kirchenfest
Since 1970, one of the most beloved annual events in Highland has been St. Paul’s Kirchenfest, or “church festival.” Hosted each August by St. Paul’s Catholic Church and organized by members and friends of the local Swiss/German community, visitors enjoy food tents, games and live music. Fans of dirt racing enjoy living close to Highland Speedway, which hosts about 20 races per year on their quarter-mile track.
30 miles from downtown St. Louis
Several Metro Bus stops are available throughout Highland to take residents to downtown St. Louis, however many commuters tend to prefer driving the 30-mile trip to make time. Interstate 70 leads residents west to Missouri and west into Missouri. Highland is about 45 miles east of St. Louis Lambert International Airport. St. Joseph’s Hospital Highland is right inside the community and is affiliated with Hospital Sisters Health System.
The water tower on Hwy. 143 welcomes you to Highland.
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