Complete Guide to Moving to High Point, NC

High Point, North Carolina is a city of approximately 115,000 residents situated in the heart of the Piedmont Triad, at the intersection of Guilford, Forsyth, Randolph, and Davidson counties. Known worldwide as the "Furniture Capital of the World" for hosting the biannual High Point Market — the largest furnishings industry trade show on the planet — High Point offers residents an unexpected combination of international industry prestige, genuine affordability, and the connectivity of a city embedded within the larger Greensboro-Winston-Salem metro. With a revitalizing downtown, strong education options anchored by High Point University, a diverse economy, and housing costs well below national norms, High Point is an underrated destination for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

This comprehensive moving guide covers everything you need to know about relocating to High Point — from neighborhoods and cost of living to schools, employment, healthcare, dining, and self-storage solutions.

Quick Facts:

Population: approximately 115,000 — the third-largest city in the Piedmont Triad
Spans four counties: Guilford, Forsyth, Randolph, and Davidson
World-renowned as the "Furniture Capital of the World" — host of the biannual High Point Market
Home of High Point University, a rapidly growing private university
Located within the Greensboro-High Point-Winston-Salem metropolitan statistical area (~1.7 million people)
Excellent I-85, I-40, and I-74 highway access
Cost of living approximately 8–10% below the national average
Piedmont climate: four seasons, moderate temperatures, occasional winter ice storms

1. WHY CHOOSE HIGH POINT?

Affordable Piedmont Triad Living

High Point offers a cost of living approximately 8–10% below the national average, making it one of the most affordable midsized cities in the NC Piedmont. Compared to Charlotte (cost of living ~5% above national average) or the Raleigh-Durham area (~10% above), High Point delivers real savings — particularly in housing. With the Greensboro-Winston-Salem metro's full range of employment, healthcare, and cultural amenities accessible within 20–30 minutes, residents get the best of both worlds: affordability and connectivity.

The Furniture Capital — A Unique Industry Identity

Twice a year — in April and October — High Point transforms into the global epicenter of the home furnishings industry. The High Point Market draws 75,000+ industry professionals from over 100 countries to more than 180 buildings of showrooms. As a resident, this biannual event creates an unparalleled opportunity to see world-class furniture and home décor at industry prices, and the year-round concentration of furniture and interior design businesses means local warehouses and outlet stores offer exceptional deals on quality furnishings throughout the year.

High Point University — A Growing Educational Anchor

High Point University has undergone a remarkable transformation under its visionary leadership into one of the most dynamic private universities in the South. HPU's campus expansion, growing enrollment (~6,000 students), and national recognition have significantly enhanced High Point's identity and economy. The university is a major employer, cultural resource, and community partner.

Piedmont Triad Metro Access

High Point's central location in the Triad means Greensboro's downtown, restaurants, and major employers are 15 minutes east; Winston-Salem's arts scene, Wake Forest University, and its cultural institutions are 20 minutes west; and the Piedmont Triad International Airport is 20 minutes north. High Point functions as a well-positioned residential community within this broader metro ecosystem.

Ice Storm Awareness

The NC Piedmont experiences occasional ice storms during winter — typically one to three significant events per season. Unlike mountain snowfall, these ice events can make roads genuinely hazardous and may close schools and businesses for 1–3 days at a time. New residents should prepare with appropriate supplies, maintain vehicle emergency kits, and give themselves extra time during winter weather events. This is a unique local factor worth knowing before you move.

2. NEIGHBORHOODS AND COMMUNITIES IN HIGH POINT

High Point University Area / Westchester

The neighborhoods surrounding HPU's beautifully landscaped campus have been transformed by the university's growth. Westchester and the adjacent areas feature a mix of established homes, renovated properties, and new developments within walking distance of campus amenities — including HPU's restaurants, fitness facilities, and event spaces (some of which are open to the broader community).

HPU Area Features:

Proximity to High Point University's growing campus and amenities
Established residential streets with character homes
Active community identity energized by university presence
Walkable to Centennial Station area restaurants and retail
Mid-range homes in the $220,000–$380,000 range

Emerywood — High Point's Premier Established Neighborhood

Emerywood is High Point's most prestigious historic neighborhood — a beautifully preserved enclave of substantial early-to-mid 20th century homes on tree-lined streets in the northwestern part of the city. Emerywood's historic Country Club of North Carolina (Emerywood Country Club) and its architectural heritage attract buyers seeking character and long-term value.

Emerywood Highlights:

Spectacular historic homes — Colonial Revival, Tudor, Georgian, and Craftsman architecture
Beautifully landscaped, tree-canopied streets
Emerywood Country Club and golf course
Strong neighborhood identity and active homeowners community
Home prices from $350,000 to $800,000+ for the finest properties
Close proximity to major retail and HPU

Southwest High Point / Skeet Club Road Corridor

The southwest portion of High Point — particularly along Skeet Club Road and toward the Guilford/Davidson county line — has seen significant new residential development. Newer subdivisions with contemporary construction attract growing families seeking modern homes at accessible prices.

Southwest HP Features:

Newer construction homes (2000s–2020s) with modern features and open floor plans
Good school districts in the Guilford County portion
Convenient to major retail on Eastchester Drive
Growing family-oriented community
Prices typically $275,000 – $500,000 for newer construction

Downtown High Point — Urban Revitalization in Progress

Downtown High Point has been the target of significant revitalization investment, with new apartment development, restaurant openings, and civic infrastructure improvements transforming the core. While still in an active revitalization phase, downtown offers interesting real estate opportunities and an energized community of urban pioneers, artists, and early adopters.

Oak Hill / Northwood Estates — Affordable Family Neighborhoods

North and northeast High Point offer a range of affordable single-family neighborhoods well-suited for first-time buyers and growing families seeking more house for their money. Areas like Oak Hill, Northwood Estates, and surrounding communities provide solid value with access to schools, parks, and everyday services.

3. COST OF LIVING IN HIGH POINT

Cost of Living Comparison (National Average = 100)

Overall Cost of Living: 91 (approximately 9% below national average)
Housing: 80 (20% below national average)
Groceries: 99 (near national average)
Utilities: 95 (5% below national average)
Transportation: 93 (7% below national average)
Healthcare: 91 (9% below national average)

Monthly Budget Estimates

Single Person Renter — Approximately $3,100/month

Housing (rent): $875
Groceries: $390
Utilities: $165
Transportation: $330
Healthcare: $105
Other expenses: $1,235

Family of Four (Homeowner) — Approximately $6,200/month

Housing (mortgage, taxes, insurance): $1,450
Groceries: $1,050
Utilities: $370
Transportation: $720
Healthcare: $340
Other expenses: $2,270

4. HOUSING MARKET OVERVIEW

The High Point Rental Market

High Point's rental market offers solid value within the Piedmont Triad. Options range from affordable apartments in older buildings near downtown to newer apartment complexes in the suburban south and west.

Average Rental Rates:

Studio/1-Bedroom: $800 – $1,050/month
2-Bedroom Apartments/Homes: $1,000 – $1,400/month
3-Bedroom Homes: $1,250 – $1,750/month
4-Bedroom Homes: $1,600 – $2,200/month

Home Buying in High Point

Median Home Prices: $240,000 – $290,000

Price Ranges:

Starter homes and value neighborhoods: $150,000 – $240,000
Mid-range family homes: $240,000 – $380,000
Emerywood and premium neighborhoods: $380,000 – $800,000+
New construction: $300,000 – $550,000

Furniture Benefit for Homebuyers:
One unique perk of living in the Furniture Capital is access to exceptional furniture deals. Local showroom warehouses, discount furniture outlets, and High Point Market connections mean residents can furnish their homes at prices unavailable almost anywhere else in the US. Major furniture stores and manufacturer outlets operate year-round alongside the twice-yearly trade market.

Property Taxes in High Point / Guilford County

Guilford County property tax rate: approximately $0.755 per $100 assessed value (combined city and county, varies slightly by location within the city's county coverage).

Example: On a $270,000 home, annual property taxes run approximately $2,039.

5. SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION

High Point spans multiple counties, with most of the city falling within Guilford County Schools — one of NC's largest school districts — while smaller portions fall within Forsyth, Davidson, and Randolph county systems.

Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools is one of the 10 largest school districts in North Carolina, serving approximately 70,000 students across Greensboro and High Point.

Notable High Point Schools:

High Point Central High School — One of the region's established high schools with strong athletics and academics
T. Wingate Andrews High School — Comprehensive high school serving western High Point
Southwest Guilford High School — Strong academic and athletic tradition in the southwest quadrant
High Point Academy — Local charter school option

District Highlights:

Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs
STEM-focused schools and magnet programs
Career and Technical Education pathways
Arts, music, and performing arts programs
Special education and English Language Learner services

Private Education

Wesleyan Christian Academy — Strong faith-based private school option in the High Point area
High Point Christian Academy
Several Montessori and early childhood education programs

Higher Education

High Point University (HPU)

Approximately 6,000 students; nationally recognized private liberal arts university
Remarkable campus transformation — consistently ranked among "Most Innovative" universities
Strong programs in business, health sciences, education, and the arts
Exceptional campus facilities open to the community for events, dining, and cultural programming
NCAA Division I athletics (Big South Conference)

Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC)
Located nearby in Jamestown, GTCC is one of NC's largest community colleges with comprehensive associate degree and workforce training programs across multiple campuses.

6. EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMY

Economic Overview

High Point's economy has evolved significantly from its furniture manufacturing roots to a diversified base spanning healthcare, education, manufacturing, distribution, and professional services. The furniture and home furnishings industry remains important — particularly for wholesale, design, and logistics — but no longer dominates as it once did.

Major Employers

High Point University — Approximately 2,000 employees and growing; a major economic anchor
Cone Health — Major regional health system with significant facilities in High Point including High Point Medical Center
High Point Medical Center — Full-service hospital serving High Point and surrounding area
Guilford County Schools — Large public sector employer
City of High Point — Municipal employer across all city departments
Furniture and home furnishings industry — Dozens of showrooms, warehouses, manufacturers' representatives, and logistics companies
Manufacturing — Diverse manufacturing base including automotive parts, electronics, and consumer goods
Distribution and logistics — High Point's central Triad location makes it attractive for distribution operations

Proximity to Triad Employment

High Point residents also have ready access to major employers in Greensboro (Honda Aircraft, Lincoln Financial, Publix distribution, HanesBrands) and Winston-Salem (Wake Forest Baptist Health, BB&T/Truist, Reynolds American, Salem College) — all within 20–30 minutes.

7. TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

Getting Around High Point

High Point is primarily automobile-dependent. Major corridors — Eastchester Drive, N. Centennial Street, S. Main Street, and the I-74/I-85 interchange — carry the bulk of traffic. Congestion is generally manageable by major metro standards.

Key Commute Times:

To Greensboro: approximately 15–20 minutes via I-85 or Business 85
To Winston-Salem: approximately 20–25 minutes via I-40
To Raleigh: approximately 75 miles, 75 minutes via I-40
To Charlotte: approximately 75 miles, 75 minutes via I-85
To Piedmont Triad International Airport: approximately 20 minutes

Public Transportation

High Point Transit (HPT) provides local bus service within High Point, connecting residential areas with downtown, HPU campus, and major commercial corridors. The Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation (PART) provides regional express bus service connecting High Point with Greensboro and Winston-Salem. The PART commuter service is useful for downtown Greensboro and downtown Winston-Salem workers.

Air Travel

Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) — Approximately 20 minutes north in Greensboro. Offers nonstop service to major hub airports (Atlanta, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Chicago, Dallas). For broader international connections, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is approximately 75 miles south.

8. SELF-STORAGE SOLUTIONS IN HIGH POINT

Why Storage Is Valuable in High Point

High Point residents have unique storage needs driven in part by the city's furniture industry heritage:

Homeowners and interior design enthusiasts who acquire furniture and décor at High Point Market or local outlets often need temporary storage while arranging or redecorating
Families transitioning between homes need secure storage during the gap between closing dates
HPU students need summer storage solutions between academic years
Small business owners — particularly in the furniture, design, and contracting sectors — need commercial storage for samples, inventory, and equipment
Residents downsizing into smaller homes or apartment communities need flexible storage for overflow belongings

Choose 10 Federal Storage — High Point's Trusted Storage Solution

10 Federal Storage on Greensboro Road in High Point delivers the secure, modern storage experience that busy High Point families and professionals expect — with advanced security features, climate-controlled options to protect valuable furnishings and electronics, and a 100% online rental process.

Why 10 Federal Storage?

State-of-the-Art Security Features:

24/7 video surveillance monitoring all areas of the facility
Secure gated access with personalized entry codes
Well-lit facility for safe access at any hour
Regular security checks ensuring your belongings remain protected

Climate-Controlled Units Available:

The NC Piedmont's four seasons — including hot, humid summers and cold winters with potential ice storms — make climate control essential for protecting:

Fine furniture and antiques (especially important given High Point's furniture culture)
Electronics and appliances
Documents, photographs, and records
Musical instruments
Art, collectibles, and fine goods

Flexible Unit Sizes:

Small units (5x5, 5x10) — Perfect for HPU student storage, documents, or small business items
Medium units (10x10, 10x15) — Ideal for apartment or office contents
Large units (10x20, 10x30) — Suitable for full home contents or furniture industry inventory

Month-to-Month Flexibility:

No long-term contracts required
Easy online account management and payment
Competitive rates with no hidden fees

Contact 10 Federal Storage — High Point

Address: 606 A Greensboro Road, High Point, NC 27260
Phone: (336) 814-2785
Website: Rent or reserve your unit online

9. UTILITIES AND SERVICES

Electric Service

Provider: Duke Energy Carolinas
Phone: 1-800-777-9898
Website: www.duke-energy.com

Duke Energy Carolinas serves High Point (note: this is a different Duke Energy operating company than Duke Energy Progress, which serves Eastern NC). Schedule service at least 5 business days before move-in.

Average Monthly Costs: $100 – $150 (varies by season, home size, and heating type)

Note on Heating: Most High Point homes use electric heat pumps or gas furnaces. Confirm your home's heating system type — this affects both which utilities you'll need to set up and what to expect for winter bills.

Natural Gas Service

Provider: Piedmont Natural Gas
Phone: 1-800-752-7504
Website: www.piedmontng.com

Piedmont Natural Gas serves the High Point area (unlike Eastern NC cities served by Dominion Energy). Natural gas is commonly used for furnace heating, water heating, and cooking in High Point homes.

Average Monthly Costs: $35 – $100 (seasonal; higher in winter)

Water and Sewer Services

Provider: City of High Point Utilities
Phone: (336) 883-3111
Website: www.highpointnc.gov

Average Monthly Costs: $45 – $75 for water and sewer combined

Trash and Recycling

The City of High Point provides weekly curbside trash and recycling collection. Single-stream recycling is provided through the city's curbside program. Contact the city at (336) 883-3111 for collection schedules and cart information.

Internet and Cable Television

Available Providers:

Spectrum (Charter Communications)

Cable internet and TV service throughout most of High Point
Speeds from 300 Mbps to 1 Gbps available in most areas

Brightspeed

Fiber internet expanding in parts of High Point

AT&T

Fiber and DSL internet in select areas

10. HEALTHCARE FACILITIES IN HIGH POINT

Primary Hospital

High Point Medical Center
Address: 601 N. Elm Street, High Point, NC 27262
Phone: (336) 878-6000
Website: www.conehealth.com

Full-service acute care hospital, part of the Cone Health system
24/7 Emergency Department
Medical, surgical, and intensive care services
Cardiac care, oncology, orthopedics, and rehabilitation
Women's health and maternity services
Imaging, laboratory, and outpatient services

Cone Health System

High Point Medical Center is part of Cone Health — one of the largest healthcare systems in the Piedmont Triad, with additional facilities in Greensboro including the flagship Moses Cone Hospital (Level II Trauma Center), Women's Hospital, and numerous outpatient clinics throughout the region.

Urgent Care

Cone Health Urgent Care — multiple locations in the High Point area
MedExpress Urgent Care — High Point location
AFC Urgent Care — High Point
Atrium Health Urgent Care — accessible via Greensboro

Specialized and Tertiary Care

Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (Winston-Salem) — Major academic medical center approximately 25 minutes west; Level I Trauma Center and comprehensive specialty care
Moses Cone Hospital (Greensboro) — Comprehensive regional hospital approximately 15 minutes east
UNC and Duke Health (Triangle) — Academic medical centers approximately 75 minutes east for complex specialty care

11. RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT

Outdoor Recreation

Piedmont Environmental Center

376-acre natural center on Lake Brandt just north of High Point with hiking trails, environmental education, and beautiful natural landscapes
Free public trails; popular with families, hikers, and nature lovers
Wildlife observation and birding

City Parks and Recreation

City Lake Park — boating, fishing, and picnicking on a 323-acre lake in the heart of High Point
Oak Hollow Lake Park and Golf Course — watersports, fishing, miniature golf, and aquatic center
Numerous community parks with athletic fields, courts, and greenways throughout the city

Uwharrie National Forest

Approximately 35 miles south via NC-109; off-road driving, hiking, mountain biking, and camping in one of NC's most underrated natural areas

Dining

High Point's dining scene has grown steadily, energized by HPU's expansion and downtown revitalization. From classic Southern comfort food to upscale contemporary cuisine, the city offers good variety.

Downtown and Local Favorites:

Kepley's Bar-B-Q — A High Point institution since 1948; legendary Eastern-style NC BBQ with hushpuppies and slaw. A must-visit for any new resident.
Showroom at High Point Theatre — The hotel restaurant at the premier downtown property; upscale dining with seasonal menus
The Corner Grille — Beloved diner-style spot for breakfast and lunch in a classic atmosphere
Big Burger Spot — Exceptional craft burgers with creative toppings in a fun, casual setting
K&W Cafeteria — Classic Southern cafeteria-style dining; comfort food done right and a local tradition

Eastchester Drive / Commercial Corridors:

Sakura Japanese Steakhouse — Hibachi and sushi; perennially popular for special occasions
Salsarita's Fresh Mexican Grill — Fresh, made-to-order Mexican staples
Texas Roadhouse — American steakhouse favorite with value-priced cuts and sides
A growing range of Asian, Mexican, and international cuisine options throughout the commercial corridors

Near High Point University:

Centennial Station and the HPU campus area have attracted new dining options including fast casual, coffee, and sit-down restaurants serving the university community

Shopping

Major Retail:

Oak Hollow Mall — High Point's regional mall with anchored department stores and national retailers
Eastchester Drive Corridor — Target, Best Buy, Walmart, Home Depot, and dozens of national retailers and restaurants in a major commercial strip
Downtown High Point — Boutique shops, specialty stores, and design-related businesses near the furniture showroom district

The Furniture Advantage:

Numerous furniture discount outlets and warehouse stores operate year-round in High Point, offering exceptional deals on furniture from major manufacturers
Interior design showrooms and to-the-trade resources are more accessible here than anywhere else in the US
Residents can often purchase quality furnishings at prices 30–60% below retail through local connections and outlets

Arts, Culture, and Entertainment

High Point Theatre

Major performing arts venue hosting Broadway touring shows, concerts, comedy acts, and community events
The centerpiece of High Point's cultural programming

High Point University Performing Arts

HPU's Hayworth Fine Arts Center hosts professional-quality theatre, music, and dance performances throughout the academic year — open to the community
HPU's Slane Student Center and community events open to public attendance

High Point Museum

Local history museum preserving the story of High Point's furniture industry and community heritage

Nightlife:

Revolution Mills / The Lofts at Revolution Mill (Greensboro, 15 min) — Beautifully restored mill complex with restaurants, bars, and event venues — one of the Triad's premier nightlife destinations
Natty Greene's Pub and Brewing (Greensboro) — Award-winning craft brewery and pub with excellent food
Wise Man Brewing (Winston-Salem, 25 min) — Acclaimed craft brewery with innovative beers and a great taproom atmosphere
Several local bars and live music venues in High Point's downtown and commercial areas

12. COMPLETE MOVING CHECKLIST

8 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Research and Planning:

Research High Point neighborhoods using this guide
Determine housing budget and preferred neighborhood
Research Guilford County Schools or private school options if you have children
Get quotes from at least three moving companies
Create a comprehensive moving budget
Begin decluttering — especially furniture, since you'll have amazing access to great deals in High Point!
Note: Confirm which county your target property is in (Guilford, Forsyth, Davidson, or Randolph) as school districts and some utilities vary

6 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Secure Housing:

Finalize lease or purchase contract
Pay deposits and complete paperwork
Document property condition with photos
Confirm county assignment for school enrollment and utility providers

Book Services:

Reserve moving company or truck rental
Reserve storage unit with 10 Federal Storage if needed

Employment and Schools:

Contact Guilford County Schools enrollment office
Explore employment at HPU, Cone Health, or regional employers if relocating for work
Connect with the High Point Economic Development office for business resources

4 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Notify Important Parties:

USPS change of address at usps.com/move
Notify employer, bank, insurance providers, and subscriptions
Request medical and dental records transfers

Transfer Utilities:

Set up Duke Energy Carolinas electric service
Set up Piedmont Natural Gas if your home uses gas
Establish City of High Point water/sewer service
Arrange internet through Spectrum or available provider
Cancel or transfer current home utilities

2 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Confirm all moving and utility arrangements
Pack remaining belongings; set aside essentials box
Plan your High Point arrival route: I-85 from Charlotte or east; I-40 from Raleigh/Winston-Salem; Business 85 from Greensboro

MOVING DAY

Final walkthrough of current property
Verify utilities active at new High Point home
Locate main water shutoff, electrical panel, and gas shutoff
Check items off inventory; note any damage on delivery receipt

FIRST WEEK AFTER MOVING

Government and Legal:

Update NC driver's license (within 60 days)
Register vehicles in NC (within 30 days)
Register to vote in Guilford County at www.guilfordcountync.gov

Essential Services:

Locate High Point Medical Center Emergency Department
Find a primary care provider through Cone Health or independent practices
Transfer prescriptions to a local pharmacy
Locate grocery stores: Harris Teeter, Publix, Food Lion, Aldi, and Walmart all have High Point locations

Community Integration:

Visit Kepley's Bar-B-Q for your first authentic High Point experience
Walk through downtown and check out the iconic Furniture Market showroom buildings
Visit Oak Hollow Lake Park for a walk or paddle
Check HPU's event calendar for public programming

FIRST MONTH AFTER MOVING

Explore furniture outlets and discount warehouses for home furnishing deals
Attend a High Point University athletic event or performing arts show
Visit the Piedmont Environmental Center for hiking
Explore Greensboro and Winston-Salem's restaurant and nightlife scenes
Connect with the High Point Chamber of Commerce
Check the High Point Market calendar — if you arrive near April or October, you can experience the world's largest furniture trade show
Prepare your vehicle emergency kit for winter ice storm season (October–March)

WELCOME TO HIGH POINT

Congratulations on your move to High Point — the Furniture Capital of the World! This guide has covered the essential information for a successful and well-informed relocation to one of the Piedmont Triad's most dynamic cities.

High Point offers a compelling combination of:

✓ Affordability — Cost of living 9% below the national average
✓ Triad Metro Access — Greensboro and Winston-Salem within 20 minutes
✓ Unique Industry Identity — The world's furniture industry comes here twice a year
✓ Academic Energy — High Point University's remarkable campus and community
✓ Historic Neighborhoods — Emerywood and other character neighborhoods at accessible prices
✓ Outdoor Recreation — City lakes, trails, and proximity to Uwharrie National Forest
✓ Furniture Deals — Exceptional home furnishings access unmatched anywhere in the US

Welcome to High Point — where world-class industry meets Southern hospitality!

For more information, visit the City of High Point at www.highpointnc.gov or contact the High Point Chamber of Commerce at (336) 882-5000.

About 10 Federal Storage

10 Federal Storage provides premier self-storage in High Point, NC with climate-controlled units, secure gated access, and a 100% online rental process. Visit us at 606 A Greensboro Road, High Point, NC 27260, call (336) 814-2785, or rent online at 10federalstorage.com.

The Complete Guide to Moving to High Point, North Carolina