Gastonia

Highland, Gastonia Neighborhood

Highland offers a peaceful, slower-paced neighborhood with mature trees. Most residences are comfortable two- and three-bedroom homes built around 1967. Single detached houses and duplexes create a varied but cohesive streetscape throughout. Parking is plentiful and many properties are minutes from major highways. Convenient access to pharmacies, grocery options, and a handful of restaurants enhances daily living. Nearby primary and secondary schools provide educational choices within a short distance. Accessible road connections support straightforward commutes and regional mobility. Quiet streets, established landscaping, and a relaxed pace create a congenial atmosphere. Local services and green pockets make daily routines pleasantly simple.

Highland offers a calm ambience. Most areas in Highland are very quiet, as noise from the streets and other parts of the city is rarely an issue.

Highlights of Highland

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🏫 Highland School of Technology

Located right in the heart of Highland, this renowned magnet high school is known for its specialized STEM and health sciences programs, drawing students from all over Gaston County and providing a hub of educational excellence for neighborhood families.

🌳 Sims Legion Park

This long-standing local park just off North Modena Street offers baseball fields, open green spaces, playgrounds, and serves as a popular gathering spot for community sports leagues, family picnics, and outdoor recreation for Highland residents.

🍗 Mr. Quick Bar-B-Q

Tucked along West Franklin Boulevard near the Highland area, Mr. Quick Bar-B-Q is a no-frills, homegrown barbecue joint beloved for its classic southern BBQ plates, hushpuppies, and friendly neighborhood atmosphere—serving the area since 1976.

⛪ Highland United Methodist Church

A historic community anchor on North Highland Street, the church not only hosts weekly worship but also organizes food drives, youth activities, and local outreach that make it a cornerstone of Highland’s tight-knit spirit.

🥎 Gastonia Parks & Recreation Highland Gymnasium

Situated within walking distance of neighborhood homes, the Highland Gymnasium on North Highland Street offers basketball courts, fitness programs, and youth sports, acting as a year-round activity center and a gathering spot for Highland’s families.

Highland

This September in Highland

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

September 12, 2026

2026 Fall Bike & Car Show

The Pizzagalli, Bessemer City, NC • 9:00 AM–2:00 PM

A great family‑friendly outing just a short drive from Highland—locals can enjoy browsing cool cars and bikes, tasty food, and community spirit, with free admission for spectators.

September 12, 2026

GRS 2026 Annual Picnic

Southminster Church, Gastonia, NC

A community celebration in Gastonia that brings neighbors together—ideal for Highland residents looking for a relaxed, local gathering to connect with nearby neighbors.

September 18–19, 2026

Ranlo Fall Festival

Ranlo Park, Ranlo, NC • Fri 6:00 PM–9:00 PM; Sat 1:00 PM–9:00 PM

A two‑day community festival close to Highland featuring live music, carnival rides, food and craft vendors, and family activities—perfect for a fun local weekend getaway.

September 12, 2026

Finesse Live in Downtown Gastonia (Gastonia Concert Series)

Rotary Centennial Pavilion, Downtown Gastonia

Part of the City’s concert series, this live band performance downtown offers accessible nightlife entertainment for Highland residents within Gastonia.

September 26, 2026

Saturday Drop‑In STEM @ Main (Library Program)

Gaston County Library, Main Branch • 10:30 AM–1:30 PM

A hands‑on STEM program at the Gaston County Library—ideal for families in Highland seeking engaging and educational activities locally.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Highland

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Highland

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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