High Point
High Point Quick Facts:
County: Guilford
Zip Codes: 27260, 27262, 27263, 27265
Population: ~115,000
Distance to Greensboro: 18 miles
Distance to Winston-Salem: 20 miles
Nearest Airport: Piedmont Triad International (PTI) – 17 miles
High Point NC is a vibrant mid-size city located in Guilford County in the Piedmont Triad, known worldwide as the Home Furnishings Capital of the World and as the childhood home of jazz legend John Coltrane.
If you've been thinking about living in High Point, you'll quickly discover a city that balances big-city amenities with an approachable, welcoming atmosphere. The downtown area has undergone a revival in recent years, with the Downtown Social District bringing new energy to the streets.
Things to Do in High Point
Congdon Yards anchors much of the downtown revitalization, offering dining at spots like Earl's Landing—a fine dining destination serving locally-sourced dishes and specialty cocktails—alongside art galleries and creative workspaces. A few blocks away, Stock + Grain Assembly brings seven independently owned restaurants under one roof, making it easy to satisfy everyone's cravings in a single stop.
High Point's identity is deeply tied to the furniture industry, and that legacy remains visible throughout the city. Twice a year, the High Point Market draws over 75,000 exhibitors, buyers, and designers from around the globe to more than 11 million square feet of showroom space. Even if you're not in the trade, you'll benefit from the city's furniture heritage—retailers like Furnitureland South, the world's largest furniture store at 1.3 million square feet, are open to the public year-round. The iconic World's Largest Chest of Drawers stands as a playful landmark and popular photo opportunity, reminding visitors and residents alike of the industry that shaped this city.
Day-to-day living in High Point offers plenty of convenience. Grocery shopping is straightforward with Harris Teeter, Food Lion, and Publix locations spread throughout the city. Coffee lovers can start their mornings at Lil's Coffee Bar at Congdon Yards or swing by any number of local cafés before heading to work. For dining out, you'll find everything from stone-oven Italian at Giannos to Southern barbecue at Sweet Old Bill's to gourmet options at LuLu & Blu. Blue Rock Pizza & Tap draws crowds for craft beer and wood-fired pizzas, while the Palladium Shopping Center on the north side offers familiar retail and restaurant options.
Sports fans will enjoy catching games at Truist Point, home to the High Point Rockers baseball team and Carolina Core FC soccer team. The stadium sits in the heart of downtown, making it easy to grab dinner before or after a game. High Point University, a private liberal arts institution known for its beautifully landscaped campus, adds to the city's academic and cultural offerings. As an HPU graduate myself, I have a personal connection to this community that goes beyond my real estate work. The Nido & Mariana Qubein Children's Museum provides hands-on learning experiences for younger visitors, and High Point earned recognition as the first Certified Autism Destination on the East Coast—a testament to the community's commitment to inclusive experiences.
Outdoor Recreation in high point
Outdoor recreation is one of High Point's strongest suits. High Point City Lake Park recently underwent a $23.1 million renovation and now features one of the region's most impressive aquatic centers, complete with a water slide, splash pad, and lazy river. Beyond the pool, the park offers a carousel, miniature golf, train rides, and boat rentals—perfect for weekend afternoons.
Oak Hollow Lake covers 800 acres and provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with a campground that includes 107 full hook-up RV sites for those who want to extend their stay. The Piedmont Environmental Center sits on over 375 acres of hardwood and pine forest, featuring 6.6 miles of trails and lakeside habitats that feel far removed from city life. The High Point Greenway connects four city parks along its nearly five-mile paved path, while the Bicentennial Greenway offers even more miles of walking and cycling routes.
Nearby Communities to high point
High Point shares borders with several desirable Piedmont Triad communities. To the northeast, Greensboro offers additional urban amenities and employment centers. Kernersville lies to the north, providing a smaller-town feel with easy access to both High Point and Winston-Salem. The town of Jamestown sits just to the east, while Archdale and Trinity border High Point to the south. Residents looking for a more rural setting often explore Oak Ridge or Summerfield to the north.
Commute & Location from high point
Getting around from High Point is remarkably convenient. You're positioned right in the heart of the Piedmont Triad, with downtown Greensboro about 18 miles to the northeast—roughly a 20-minute drive via US 29 or Business 85. Winston-Salem sits about 20 miles to the west, an easy 25-minute commute along I-40 or US 311. Piedmont Triad International Airport is just 17 miles north, putting you within 25 minutes of direct flights to major hubs along the East Coast. Interstate 85 runs along the city's southern edge, connecting you to Charlotte in about 90 minutes, while I-74 provides access to points north and east.
High Point History
High Point's cultural scene runs deeper than furniture. The city got its name in 1859 as the highest point along the North Carolina Railroad. Jazz enthusiasts will appreciate that John Coltrane, one of the most influential saxophone players in history, spent his formative years here. His childhood home on Underhill Street is being restored as a cultural center, and an eight-foot bronze statue of Coltrane stands near the High Point Theatre downtown. Every Labor Day weekend, the John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival draws thousands to Oak Hollow Festival Park for world-class performances honoring his legacy. The High Point Museum houses a permanent Coltrane exhibit featuring the piano from his childhood home, photographs, and memorabilia.
The furniture industry took root here after the turn of the 20th century, with the first formal Southern Furniture Market held in 1909. By World War II, an estimated 60% of all furniture made in America was produced within a 150-mile radius of High Point, cementing its reputation as the Home Furnishings Capital of the World.
High Point Real Estate
Housing in High Point ranges widely depending on what you're looking for. Established neighborhoods like Emerywood and Oak View offer midcentury homes on tree-lined streets, many updated with modern finishes while retaining their original character. Historic districts like Johnson Street showcase homes with architectural details dating back generations. For newer construction, communities like Meadow Valley and Deep River offer floor plans ranging from 1,600 to over 3,500 square feet, with convenient access to major highways. You'll find everything from brick ranch homes with mature landscaping to townhomes near the city's trail systems to larger properties with acreage on the outskirts. Whether you're looking for a starter home or planning to put down deeper roots, the variety here makes it possible to find something that fits.
Ready to explore what's currently on the market? Search homes for sale in High Point or get a free home valuation if you're considering selling.
As a licensed REALTOR® since 2003, CRS certified, RamseyTrusted Pro, and High Point University graduate who was born and raised right here in the Piedmont Triad, I've watched High Point continue to grow and evolve. I've helped buyers and sellers throughout Guilford County navigate this market, and I understand the nuances of each neighborhood. High Point real estate offers something for nearly every lifestyle and budget, and I'd be glad to share what I've learned over two decades of working in this community.
faqs about high point
Q: What's it like to live in High Point day-to-day?
A: Living in High Point day-to-day means you'll have easy access to grocery stores, coffee shops, restaurants, and parks without fighting big-city traffic. The downtown area has seen a revival with the Social District bringing new restaurants and gathering spots, while established shopping centers handle everyday errands. You'll find a balance between suburban convenience and urban amenities that makes daily life feel manageable.
Q: How close is High Point to the rest of the Triad?
A: High Point sits centrally in the Piedmont Triad, making commutes straightforward in any direction. Downtown Greensboro is about 18 miles northeast, roughly a 20-minute drive. Winston-Salem is approximately 20 miles west, about 25 minutes away. Piedmont Triad International Airport is just 17 miles north, putting you within 25 minutes of regional air travel.
Q: What types of homes do you usually see in High Point?
A: High Point offers a wide range of housing options throughout the city. You'll find midcentury ranch and split-level homes in established neighborhoods like Emerywood and Oak View, historic properties in districts like Johnson Street, and newer construction communities with contemporary floor plans. Townhomes, single-family homes on smaller lots, and larger properties with acreage on the outskirts all contribute to the variety available.
Q: Are there outdoor activities nearby?
A: High Point provides excellent outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the city. High Point City Lake Park offers a renovated aquatic center, carousel, mini golf, and train rides. Oak Hollow Lake covers 800 acres for fishing, kayaking, and camping. The Piedmont Environmental Center features over six miles of trails through forested land, and the High Point Greenway and Bicentennial Greenway connect parks throughout the area for walking and cycling.
Q: What should sellers focus on before listing in High Point?
A: Sellers in High Point should focus on curb appeal and interior presentation, as buyers in this market respond to well-maintained properties. Addressing deferred maintenance, updating kitchens and bathrooms where budget allows, and ensuring the home shows well all help attract qualified buyers. Pricing competitively based on recent comparable sales in your specific neighborhood remains essential to generating strong interest.
If you're thinking about buying or selling in High Point, I'd be glad to help. Reach out anytime for a local strategy conversation or a custom market breakdown.
Delia Knight | Piedmont Triad, NC REALTOR® | Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate
2215 Oak Ridge Rd., Oak Ridge, NC 27310
