Get & compare mortgage quotes anonymously Start in My Home

Safe Rate Local

Cost of Living in Highlands

Is it better to rent or buy in Highlands? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$250,001
$3,501/mo

Median in area: $3,501

$2,000,001

Median in area: $2,000,001

$400,000

If you Rent

$3,738 /mo
Base Rent$3,501
Est. Utilities$237
% of Income17.9%
Pre-tax Residual$17,095

If you Buy

$11,797 /mo
P&I (6.995%)$10,639
Taxes & Ins$921
Est. Utilities$237
% of Income56.6%
Pre-tax Residual$9,036

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Highlands?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Highlands. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $3,738, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $11,797 per month (a difference of $8,059).

How much do utilities cost in Highlands?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Highlands is approximately $237. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Highlands?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Highlands without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $149,520 per year.