If you’ve started your search for a new home in Wilson, North Carolina, you may have come across The Highlands – and for good reason. Tucked discreetly behind the bustle of Airport Boulevard and conveniently close to major Wilson hotspots, The Highlands remains one of the area’s most beloved residential neighborhoods. Thinking of making your move? Here’s what living in The Highlands is really like, straight from a neighbor’s perspective.
Community Vibe: Friendly, Peaceful, and Proudly Local
The very first thing most people notice about The Highlands is its sense of community. With streets like Glasgow Drive, Edinburgh Drive, and Stirling Place circling through the neighborhood, there’s a natural cohesiveness that makes meeting your neighbors almost inevitable. People tend to look out for each other here. Whether it’s borrowing a cup of sugar or getting a recommendation for a trustworthy handyman, The Highlands strikes that rare balance of privacy and neighborliness.
There are frequent evening strolls, porch chats, and folks waving as they walk their dogs or jog around the wide, tree-lined streets. In the warmer months, it’s not unusual to see lemonade stands pop up or impromptu games of basketball in the driveways.
Types of Housing: Classic, Well-Kept, and Spacious
Most of the homes in The Highlands were built in the late 1990s to early 2000s and are known for their classic brick facades, spacious floor plans, and generous front lawns. You’ll mostly find single-family homes, many with four bedrooms, two-car garages, and large backyards – ideal for families or anyone looking for room to spread out.
A significant feature of this neighborhood is its consistency: the entire subdivision maintains a cohesive look, with well-maintained lawns, mature trees, and landscaping that reflects pride of ownership. Many homes back up to wooded areas or small creeks, giving an extra sense of privacy rarely found in new developments.
Walkability: Roomy Streets and Sidewalks for All
While Wilson as a whole is car-dependent, The Highlands is relatively walkable by suburban standards. Nearly all the streets, including Highland Circle and Loch Lomond Drive, are equipped with sidewalks, making it easy for families, kids on bikes, and joggers to get around safely.
Nearby, you’ll find the Wilson Parks and Recreation Greenway Trail. Although it's a short drive (less than five minutes), many residents use it as a weekend destination for a longer run, walk, or bike ride. For every-day strolls, the loop around the neighborhood itself has become a favorite fitness route.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: Top-Tier Choices
The Highlands is zoned for some of the best schools in Wilson County, which is a significant draw for many families. Jones Elementary School, just a few minutes’ drive away, consistently earns high marks for academic achievement and community involvement. Toisnot Middle School and Fike High School, also nearby, provide strong academic programs and are well-known for student engagement and extracurricular options.
It’s not just the academics; the sidewalks, low traffic volume, and multiple cul-de-sacs mean kids play safely outside. Halloween is a must-experience event, with neighbors going all out with decorations and plenty of young trick-or-treaters making the rounds.
Parks and Green Spaces: Nature on Your Doorstep
While The Highlands itself is quiet and residential, you’re never far from green spaces. The neighborhood is adjacent to the Wilson Country Club Golf Course, offering scenic views and quiet evenings. For families looking for playgrounds, picnic sites, or athletic fields, the nearby Gillette Athletic Complex is just a quick drive away.
What truly adds to the neighborhood’s appeal are the mature trees, natural buffers, and green corners sprinkled throughout – not to mention the seasonal beauty of blooming magnolias and oaks.
Safety: Peace of Mind Comes Standard
Safety is a big reason people choose The Highlands. The area has a strong reputation for being one of the safer neighborhoods in Wilson. Many households participate in informal neighborhood watch programs, and there’s a general spirit of looking out for one another. Evening walks feel safe, and children can ride bikes or play in the yards without much worry about traffic or unfamiliar faces.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Location is everything, and The Highlands doesn’t disappoint. You’re a straight shot from downtown Wilson, with a nine-minute commute on average thanks to nearby Forest Hills Road and convenient access to Highway 264. This puts residents within easy reach of Wilson Medical Center, Barton College, BB&T (now Truist) campus, and the nearby businesses on Ward Boulevard and Forest Hills Road.
Despite being so close to Wilson’s major employment centers, the Highlands feels worlds away thanks to its quiet, established streets and absence of through-traffic.
What Residents Love Most
Talk to anyone who’s lived in The Highlands for a while, and a few themes come up again and again:
- Peace and Tranquility: No loud nightlife, no heavy traffic, just the sounds of birds and the breeze through the trees.
- Strong Community Ties: It’s easy to meet people, join social events, or simply connect with neighbors for support.
- Convenient Yet Quiet: Shopping, schools, and essentials are close by – but you can come home to calm, quiet streets every evening.
- Child- and Pet-Friendly Vibe: There’s space to play and grow, whether you’re raising little ones, teens, or furry friends.
- Pride of Ownership: Neighbors take care of their homes and yards, helping property values remain stable and curb appeal stay high.
Neighborly Advice
If you’re on the fence about moving to The Highlands, my honest advice is this: take a drive through on a Sunday afternoon. You’ll see families playing outside, neighbors chatting in driveways, and kids cruising on scooters. It’s the kind of place where it feels good to put down roots, make memories, and truly feel at home.
While it may not have the trendiest restaurants or a bustling nightlife scene at your doorstep, The Highlands makes up for it with enduring friendliness, enduring value, and authentic Wilson charm.