Why Live in Highland Crest
Highland Crest, locally known as Hi-Crest, is an urban neighborhood situated approximately 3 miles south of downtown Topeka. Originally developed post-World War II to house military personnel from Forbes Field, now Topeka Regional Airport, the area experienced a decline in the 1960s but is now seeing revitalization efforts. The community is tight-knit, with long-term residents like Mack McClendon emphasizing the neighborhood's quiet nature and mutual vigilance. Non-profits such as Habitat for Humanity and SENT Topeka are actively involved in improving the area, offering programs like the Tool Bus and refurbishing homes. Predominantly featuring 1950s side-by-side ranch-style houses, homes in Highland Crest are typically two- to three-bedroom properties with leafy, fenced-in backyards and attached garages. Betty Phillips Park, with its tropical-themed playground and vibrant murals, is a local highlight, along with smaller parks like Betty Dunn Park and Nellie Hogan Park. The neighborhood also provides access to the 38-mile Landon Nature Trail and is close to Lake Shawnee, a popular spot for boating and fishing. Dining options vary by location within the neighborhood, with notable spots like Blind Tiger Brewery & Restaurant and Abigail's Grill & Bar on the south side, and Milk & Honey Coffee Co. and Soul Fire Food Company on the north side. While local schools receive average ratings, the community benefits from Topeka Metro bus routes and proximity to Interstate 70. The nearest commercial airport is Kansas City International Airport, about 74 miles away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Highland Crest a good place to live?
Highland Crest is a good place to live. Highland Crest is considered very car-dependent and somewhat bikeable with some transit options. Highland Crest is a suburban neighborhood with a crime score of 4, on par with the average neighborhood in the U.S. Highland Crest has 7 parks for recreational activities. It is fairly sparse in population with 5.1 people per acre and a median age of 35. The average household income is $47,633 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 4.6% of residents. A majority of residents in Highland Crest are renters, with 52.5% of residents renting and 47.5% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving Highland Crest can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
Highland Crest neighborhood guide.
Is Highland Crest, KS a safe neighborhood?
Highland Crest, KS is a safe neighborhood and is on par with the average neighborhood in the United States. It received a crime score of 4 out of 10.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in Highland Crest?
The median home price in Highland Crest is $75,000. If you put a 20% down payment of $15,000 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.72%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $390 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $17K a year to afford the median home price in Highland Crest. The average household income in Highland Crest is $48K.
What are the best public schools in Highland Crest?
The best public schools that serve Highland Crest are:
What are the best private schools in Highland Crest?
The best private schools that serve Highland Crest are:
What are the most popular zip codes in Highland Crest, Topeka, KS?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near Highland Crest, Topeka, KS?
Are home prices dropping in Highland Crest?
Yes, home prices in Highland Crest are down 13% in the last 12 months.
Home Trends in Highland Crest, KS
On average, homes in Highland Crest, Topeka sell after 20 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Highland Crest, Topeka over the last 12 months is $65,000, down 13% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$65,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$69,975
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$199,900
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$79
Number of Homes for Sale
10
Last 12 months Home Sales
79
Median List Price
$75,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
0%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-13%