High Point has a global reputation that punches well above its size. Known worldwide as the Furniture Capital of the World, the city hosts the largest home furnishings trade show on the planet twice a year, drawing tens of thousands of buyers from more than 100 countries into a downtown that transforms into an international showroom each spring and fall. But High Point isn’t just a trade show town. It’s a genuinely livable mid-size city of around 115,000 people, offering some of the most affordable housing in the Piedmont Triad alongside a growing university presence and a downtown that’s seen real reinvestment in recent years.
If affordability is a priority, High Point is one of the strongest values in the region. Median home prices here consistently run well below the national average, which makes it an appealing option for first-time buyers and anyone looking to stretch their budget further without leaving the Triad. Neighborhoods in the north and northeast, like Oak Hill and Northwood Estates, offer solid single-family housing well-suited for growing families, while areas closer to downtown appeal to those who want walkability and access to the city’s revitalized core.
High Point University has reshaped a lot of the city’s identity over the past two decades, with a beautifully maintained campus that’s brought new restaurants, energy, and steady demand to the surrounding neighborhoods. If you’re relocating for work at the university, or simply want to be near that kind of activity, the areas surrounding campus are worth a look.
Downtown High Point has become a genuine draw in its own right. Truist Point Stadium hosts minor league baseball, the High Point Theatre brings in live performances, and a growing restaurant scene along North Main Street gives the area a walkable, small-city energy. The city is also home to major employers like Thomas Built Buses and Bank of America, alongside strong healthcare access through UNC Health High Point Regional.
Getting around the Triad from High Point is easy thanks to its central location, and Piedmont Triad International Airport is a short drive away for regional and national travel. Students, faculty, and families here also benefit from Guilford County Schools, one of the largest school districts in the state.
Whether you’re drawn by the affordability, the university energy, or the international connections that come with being home to the world’s furniture industry, High Point offers something genuinely different from its Triad neighbors.
Curious which High Point neighborhood fits your needs best? We put together a full breakdown of the best areas to live in the Furniture Capital. Read our High Point neighborhood guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is High Point, NC a good place to live?
Yes, High Point offers some of the most affordable housing in the Piedmont Triad, along with strong schools, a growing university presence, and a revitalized downtown, making it a solid option for first-time buyers, families, and retirees alike.
What is High Point known for?
High Point is known worldwide as the Furniture Capital of the World, hosting the High Point Market twice a year, the largest home furnishings trade show on the planet.
What is the cost of living like in High Point?
High Point’s cost of living runs meaningfully below the national average, driven primarily by housing costs that are well below what buyers would pay in nearby Raleigh, Charlotte, or even Greensboro.
How far is High Point from other Triad cities?
High Point sits roughly 20 minutes from Greensboro and about 25–30 minutes from Winston-Salem, making it a convenient home base for commuting anywhere in the Triad.
