The Unique Context of Economic Mobility in Highland

2026 CFLEADS Economic Mobility Summit

Highland is a neighborhood that mixes residential and commercial uses where most families live in multifamily housing. Today, more than 1,000 people live in the part of the neighborhood covered by the primary census tract in the area.

During the last decade, the population in this portion of Highland declined by nearly 200 people. We can also see that the area has changed in other ways.

This part of Highland is one of the poorest neighborhoods in the nation. Around 74% of residents live below the poverty line. This is over three times greater than the average for Spartanburg County and five times more than the national average.

We can also observe how some of the indicators linked to future prosperity are currently performing.

Homeownership is very low in this portion of Highland. Less than 10% of homes are owner-occupied, which is one of the lowest homeownership rates in the nation.

Housing growth during the last decade was negative in this part of Highland. The number of local homes fell by 18%.

Long-term vacancy is very high in this portion of Highland. Almost 20% of homes sit empty and off the market, which is far greater than the U.S. average.

Self-employment rates are high in this part of Highland. Around 5% of workers work for themselves.

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