Where Family Life Meets Wonder: Highland, CA
Located in sunny Southern California, Highland is a gem of a city perfect for family life. Surrounded by the San Bernardino Mountains, this charming city offers a unique blend of suburban peace and urban amenities. In this article, we'll explore what makes Highland an appealing destination for families with young children, covering its educational facilities, healthcare services, outdoor spaces, and much more. So, letâs dive in and see if Highland ticks all the boxes for your family's needs.
Education Opportunities
Educational opportunities are a cornerstone for any family considering a new city. In Highland, parents will be pleased to find a variety of educational facilities ranging from early childhood education centers to K-12 schools and nearby universities. Daycare options are plentiful, with reputable centers like Highland Montessori and KinderCare, ensuring that even the youngest members of the family are well looked after.
For older children, the San Bernardino City Unified School District serves the area, offering a range of elementary, middle, and high schools. Top-rated schools in the district, such as Arroyo Verde Elementary School and San Gorgonio High School, provide a robust curriculum along with extracurricular activities. Additionally, the proximity to various universities, such as California State University, San Bernardino (just a short 20-minute drive away), offers excellent options for higher education without the need for a long commute.
Investing in your child's education in Highland ensures access to diverse learning environments and high academic standards.
Healthcare Services
When it comes to healthcare, Highland prioritizes the well-being of its youngest residents. Pediatric care is available at facilities like San Bernardino Medical Group and pediatric departments at local hospitals such as Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. These facilities offer specialized child health services, from regular check-ups to specialized treatments.
Moreover, Highland residents are within easy reach of Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, one of the top children's hospitals in the region, ensuring that more serious medical needs can be met promptly and professionally.
Outdoor Spaces
Highland is blessed with an abundance of outdoor spaces that families will love. The city boasts several parks, such as Aurantia Park and Highland Community Park, which feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails. These parks offer a perfect respite for families looking to spend quality time outdoors.
For a more extensive outdoor adventure, the nearby San Bernardino National Forest provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring nature, making it perfect for weekend family trips and fostering a love for the great outdoors in children.
Outdoor activities in Highland offer a blend of recreation and learning, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle for families.
Family-Friendly Attractions
When it comes to family-friendly attractions, Highland does not disappoint. The San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum offers a mix of educational and entertaining exhibits suitable for young minds. For more hands-on learning experiences, families can explore the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, which offers close encounters with local wildlife and various conservation programs.
Additionally, entertainment venues like Fiesta Village Family Fun Park provide a range of fun activities from mini-golf to water slides, ensuring that there's never a dull moment for your kids.
Housing
Affordability and quality of housing are crucial considerations for families. In Highland, housing options are diverse, catering to a range of budgets while maintaining a focus on family-friendly neighborhoods. Whether you're looking for a spacious single-family home, a townhouse, or a cozy apartment, youâll find something suitable.
The cost of living in Highland is relatively reasonable compared to other parts of Southern California. Amenities such as grocery stores, shopping centers, and recreational facilities are plentiful, and most neighborhoods are within close proximity to schools and parks, making daily life convenient and stress-free.
Public Transportation
Navigating the city with children can be a challenge, but Highland offers a reliable public transportation system. The Omnitrans bus service is family-friendly and covers most of the city, making it easy to reach schools, daycares, hospitals, and entertainment venues. Additionally, families can benefit from the proximity to major highways and the San Bernardino Transit Center, which provides access to Metrolink trains for trips to neighboring cities.
Public transportation in Highland is designed with families in mind, offering accessible and convenient options for daily commuting and weekend outings.
Safety and Security
One of the primary concerns for families is safety, and Highland offers a relatively secure environment. The city's crime rate is lower compared to other nearby cities, and neighborhoods are generally considered safe for raising children. Law enforcement is active and responsive, with community policing initiatives that focus on creating a safe, family-friendly atmosphere.
Peace of mind comes easily in Highland, where safety and community well-being are prioritized.
Community Support
Community can make or break your experience in a new city, and Highland excels in fostering a supportive, family-friendly environment. Parent groups and local organizations like the Highland Area Chamber of Commerce offer numerous events and activities that bring families together. Annual events like the Highland Citrus Harvest Festival provide opportunities for families to engage with the community and create lasting memories.
Support networks are strong, making it easy for new families to feel at home and find the resources they need to thrive.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent educational facilities from preschools to universities
- Robust pediatric and specialized healthcare services
- Plenty of parks and outdoor activities
- Family-friendly attractions and entertainment venues
- Affordable and diverse housing options
Cons:
- Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities
- Fewer high-end amenities compared to more urban areas
- Some neighborhoods may have limited nightlife or entertainment options for adults
- Occasional traffic congestion during peak hours
- Summers can be hot, limiting outdoor activities during the day
In conclusion, Highland, CA stands out as a family-friendly city with its excellent educational institutions, robust healthcare services, and abundant outdoor spaces. While it might not offer the same extensive amenities as a larger urban center, its advantages in safety, community support, and quality of life make it a wonderful place to raise children. Whether youâre considering a move or simply planning to visit, Highland offers a warm, welcoming environment where families can thrive and create lasting memories.