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 October in Highland

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

October 3, 2026

Halloween Costume Swap

Gastonia Farmers Market • 8:00 AM–11:00 AM

Highland residents can refresh their family’s Halloween wardrobe without buying new costumes at this practical community swap. It is an easy Saturday-morning stop near central Gastonia, offering a budget-friendly way to find costumes, pass along outgrown outfits, and meet other local families.

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October 17, 2026

Gastonia Fall Festival

Rotary Centennial Pavilion and Downtown Gastonia • 3:00 PM–7:00 PM

This downtown festival gives Highland neighbors a convenient fall outing close to home, with a lively community atmosphere and opportunities to browse vendors, enjoy food, and spend time outdoors. Its central location makes it especially accessible for families wanting an October activity without traveling far.

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October 23, 2026

The Brass Roots Trio

First Assembly Church • 7:30 PM

Residents seeking an evening concert can enjoy this chamber-music performance in Gastonia, featuring piano, trumpet or flugelhorn, French horn, and vocals. The program blends classical, jazz, Americana, and Latin influences, making it a welcoming cultural night out for Highland adults and music-loving families.

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October 24, 2026

Scarecrow Event

Rotary Community Garden • 9:00 AM–12:00 PM

This hands-on seasonal activity is a natural fit for Highland families who enjoy decorating for fall and spending time outdoors. Held at a Gastonia community garden, it offers a creative way to welcome autumn, make a memorable family project, and connect with neighbors in a relaxed setting.

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October 30, 2026

Gastonia Concert Series: Secret Agent 23 Skidoo

CaroMont Health Park

A free or community-oriented concert at CaroMont Health Park offers Highland residents a festive way to begin Halloween weekend. Secret Agent 23 Skidoo is known for energetic family-friendly hip-hop, so the event should appeal to parents and children looking for live music in a nearby Gastonia venue.

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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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