Why Live in Highlands
The Highlands neighborhood in Millbrae is characterized by its early 20th-century cottages, Tudors, and Spanish-style homes, with construction dating back to 1927. The area is predominantly made up of single-family houses, with townhouses and apartments being less common. Homes in the Upper Highlands, located in the foothills, often feature unobstructed bay views and are generally more modern, while the Lower Highlands have older homes with unique period-specific details. The neighborhood is adjacent to several parks, including Millbrae’s Central Park, which hosts community events and features a playground, tennis courts, and a recreation center. Josephine Waugh-Soroptimist Park and the Spur Trail offer green spaces and picnic areas, while San Andreas Lake provides scenic trails.
For dining and shopping, residents can visit nearby Burlingame Plaza, which includes eateries like Andersen Bakery and Little Lucca, and the Gateway at Millbrae Station, which offers a variety of restaurants. The Bayhill Shopping Center, located four miles north, provides additional retail options. The neighborhood is car-dependent due to its hilly terrain and limited bike lanes, but public transit is accessible via the Millbrae Intermodal Center, connecting to Caltrain, BART, and SamTrans.
The area is safer than the national average, and Mills-Peninsula Medical Center is conveniently located less than a mile southeast. Schools in the Highlands are highly rated, with Spring Valley Elementary School, Taylor Middle School, and Mills High School offering strong academic programs and career preparation courses.
