Living in the Highlands neighborhood of Pompano Beach, FL, is like finding a sweet spot where traditional Florida charm meets convenience and community spirit. Whether you’re a young family, a professional seeking peaceful after-work evenings, or someone looking to lay down roots in a friendly neighborhood, Highlands offers a little something for everyone. Here’s what it’s really like to call this welcoming enclave home.
A Community Where Neighbors Feel Like Family
Located just north of Sample Road and west of Dixie Highway, Highlands is a classic mid-century neighborhood filled with lush greenery, neatly kept lawns, and a noticeable sense of pride among residents. People know each other’s names, greet you with a wave while walking their dogs, and often stop to chat along NE 44th Street or NW 6th Avenue.
The neighborhood has a laid-back vibe—think weekend barbecues, bicycle rides, and the occasional block party. Residents genuinely look out for each other, making it feel safe and neighborly, much like the way communities used to be.
Housing: Variety and Affordability
Highlands is primarily made up of single-family homes built between the 1950s and 1970s. Here, you’ll find everything from charming ranch-style houses—with their retro terrazzo floors—to slightly more modern homes with renovated kitchens and updated landscaping. The lots tend to be spacious for South Florida standards, offering plenty of room for backyard gardens, playsets, and even a pool or two.
A drive along streets like NE 18th Avenue or NW 3rd Terrace reveals tree-lined blocks and a mix of long-term homeowners and new families. Home prices are a bit more affordable compared to neighborhoods closer to the ocean or downtown, which makes Highlands especially appealing for first-time buyers and those looking for value without sacrificing comfort.
Walkability and Everyday Conveniences
One of the unsung perks of Highlands is its impressive walkability. Major cross streets, such as Sample Road and Federal Highway, are nearby, giving residents easy access to everything from grocery stores (like Publix on McNab Road) to coffee shops and local eateries. On Saturday mornings, you might spot neighbors heading down to the Pompano Beach Green Market for fresh produce or grabbing a Cuban coffee at a local bakery on Dixie Highway.
Sidewalks line many of the residential streets, and there are plenty of quiet blocks for an evening stroll, jogging, or walking your dog. Highlands Park, located conveniently in the heart of the neighborhood on NE 5th Avenue, acts as a green oasis and a gathering point for families and friends.
Family-Friendliness and Local Schools
Families are an essential part of what makes Highlands so special. Kids can often be found playing in front yards or riding bicycles safely along low-traffic streets. The community’s close-knit feel adds a layer of comfort for parents looking for a safe environment for their children to grow up in.
Schools in the Highlands area are a draw as well. Nearby institutions like Cypress Elementary and Pompano Beach Middle School are known for their supportive staff and active PTOs, creating a strong sense of connection among families. Access to reputable public and private schools within short commutes adds to the area’s family appeal.
Parks, Green Spaces, and Outdoor Living
Green space is one thing Highlands does exceptionally well. In addition to Highlands Park, which features playgrounds, tennis courts, picnic tables, and open fields for sports or yoga, residents also enjoy proximity to Pompano Community Park—just a quick drive or bike ride away. Here, you’ll find more extensive facilities: ball fields, walking trails, and even an aquatic center.
The neighborhood’s mature trees and landscaping create a naturally shady and inviting canopy, perfect for gardening enthusiasts and those who love to spend time outdoors. The combination of parks and backyards means there’s always a spot to soak in the Florida sun.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a big reason people move to—and stay in—the Highlands. The area benefits from a strong sense of community watchfulness; folks keep an eye out and report anything that seems out of place. While no neighborhood is completely free of crime, local residents report feeling secure walking at night, with well-lit streets and a visible police presence when needed.
Neighborhood groups, often connected via social media or text chains, keep residents updated on any concerns and organize opportunities for residents to meet one another, adding another layer of security and camaraderie.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Highlands enjoys the best of both worlds: tranquil residential vibes within easy reach of city attractions and major employers. Downtown Pompano Beach—with its arts district, breweries, and lively events—is less than fifteen minutes away by car. Commuters appreciate fast access to I-95 and the Tri-Rail station, making it convenient to work in neighboring cities like Fort Lauderdale or Boca Raton.
Grocery stores, big-box retailers, and hospitals are all within a ten-minute drive. If you’re looking for some sand and sea, Pompano Beach’s beautiful coastline is just over three miles to the east, easily reachable for a sunset stroll or weekend beach day.
What Residents Love Most
Ask anyone who lives in Highlands what they treasure most, and you’ll hear similar themes:
- Friendly, welcoming neighbors who look out for one another
- Quiet streets perfect for families and retirees alike
- Spacious lots and well-kept homes with a true sense of pride
- Walkable access to parks, schools, and everyday conveniences
- Quick commutes to downtown, shopping, the beach, and I-95
There’s no shortage of local charm, from the hand-painted benches in Highlands Park to the community holiday decorations that residents pitch in to put up each year. For many, Highlands isn’t just a neighborhood—it’s a place to create lasting memories, raise a family, and enjoy the very best of South Florida living.
If you’re considering a move to Pompano Beach and want a community-oriented neighborhood with real staying power, Highlands is absolutely worth a closer look.