Highland Terrace, Richardson
Updated June 22, 2026 · 5,027 residents
Highland Terrace offers a blend of residential comfort and cultural vibrancy, anchored by its proximity to the DFW Chinatown corridor. The area features a mix of mid-century architecture and provides residents with moderate walkability, though noise levels from nearby road traffic are a common consideration for those living closer to major thoroughfares.
Key Highlights
About Highland Terrace
Developed primarily between the 1950s and 1970s, Highland Terrace is one of Richardson's largest residential neighborhoods, featuring classic mid-century ranches, contemporary brick builds, and traditional split-level homes. Bordered to the east by railway lines and commercial corridors, the neighborhood is culturally anchored by its close proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth Chinatown, established in the 1980s by Chinese immigrants drawn to local technology companies. Today, the neighborhood is celebrated for its cultural diversity, walkability, and local community events like the annual Lunar New Year Festival. Highland Terrace is also home to Richardson Terrace Elementary and the Richardson ISD Math, Science, and Technology Magnet School.
The neighborhood maintains a distinct character through its diverse culinary landscape and established educational institutions, including the highly rated Math, Science, and Technology Magnet. Residents benefit from a central location that balances suburban residential streets with accessible commercial services. According to iHuus data, the area exhibits a higher ideological diversity compared to the city average, reflecting its evolving demographic profile and active community engagement. Prospective residents should consider that the area presents specific trade-offs, particularly regarding acoustic comfort and flood safety, which are lower than the city averages. While the neighborhood provides a high degree of access to local amenities and schools, the prevalence of road traffic noise and the need for careful consideration of flood-prone zones are notable factors. It is well-suited for families and individuals who prioritize school quality and proximity to cultural hubs over absolute quiet or rural-like seclusion.
Neighborhood Scores Across 15 Qualities
Residential layouts vary between closely grouped multi-unit complexes and single-family homes with modest yard buffers. This level of density is roughly in line with the average for Richardson.
Pedestrian movement is supported by sidewalks on most roads and safe crossings at major intersections, though the area is slightly less walkable than the Richardson average.
Large homes with manicured lawns and private pools characterize much of the area, though visual appeal is slightly below the Richardson average. According to iHuus data, the neighborhood features prominent roof footprints and well-maintained residential landscapes.
Grassy verges between sidewalks and roads are common across many residential blocks, but overall access to large parks is below the Richardson average. A small park is located in the southeast corner of the neighborhood according to iHuus data.
A varied landscape of residential pockets, commercial blocks, and light industrial zones creates a setting that is slightly less open than the Richardson average. According to iHuus data, the area features a transition between dense apartment complexes and more spacious, scattered housing.
A variety of local eateries and social hubs are interspersed with quiet, industrial, and residential pockets. This level of activity is slightly higher than the average for Richardson.
Steady noise from nearby busy streets is present throughout the area. According to iHuus data, this level of acoustic activity is slightly higher than the Richardson average.
Air quality levels fluctuate between acceptable and unhealthy, presenting occasional concerns for sensitive groups. This condition is slightly worse than the average seen throughout Richardson, according to iHuus data.
Residential tranquility is maintained by a lack of heavy industry, though occasional light commercial activity and small-scale services are present. This level of industrial proximity is slightly lower than the Richardson average due to the absence of large-scale warehouses or logistics hubs.
Health insurance enrollment is notably lower in this area than the Richardson average, according to iHuus data. This indicates a higher proportion of uninsured residents compared to the rest of the city.
Political leanings in this area trend more liberal than the Richardson average, according to iHuus data.
A balanced distribution of young adults, families, and older residents characterizes this area, mirroring the broader population spread seen across Richardson. This demographic variety provides a stable community composition according to iHuus data.
Flood risk in this area is difficult to determine because official FEMA studies for this specific location are currently incomplete. According to iHuus data, the level of risk is slightly higher than the average found throughout Richardson.
Block-Level Insights for Highland Terrace
iHuus Neighborhood Intelligence Insights
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| Dimension | Highland Terrace | Arapaho |
|---|---|---|
| 🚶 Walkabilityavg 8.74 | ||
| 🔊 Acoustic Comfortavg 4.81 | ||
| 🤫 Privacy Indexavg 5.72 | ||
| 🎨 Visual Appealavg 7.35 | ||
| 🐕 Dog Friendlinessavg 7.11 | ||
| 🗺️ Urban-Rural Indexavg 6.61 | ||
| ✨ Neighborhood Vibeavg 4.69 | ||
| 🏥 Health Insurance Coverageavg 6.64 | ||
| 🌿 Air Qualityavg 3.77 | ||
| 🏭 Industrial Proximityavg 9.24 | ||
| 🌊 Flood Safetyavg 4.36 | ||
| 🗳️ Ideological Leanavg 6.22 | ||
| 👥 Population Age Profileavg 4.71 | ||
| 🔥 Fire Safety | ||
| 🏫 School Quality |
Highland Terrace Rankings
School Districts Serving Highland Terrace
Richardson ISD is a stable, high-performing district characterized by elite terminal high schools and a robust portfolio of magnet programs, currently navigating a strategic consolidation phase known as 'Project RightSize.' While the district faces challenges with declining enrollment and a notable performance gap between its top-tier 10/10 campuses and lower-performing 2/10 schools, its leadership has demonstrated fiscal responsibility by redirecting savings into teacher retention and facility upgrades. Strong community support for fine arts, high National Merit recognition, and proactive safety policies like the cell phone ban solidify its standing as a premier educational choice in the North Texas region despite the friction of recent elementary school closures.
Schools
School Insights for Highland Terrace
Below average outcomes; significant attendance and academic challenges.
School Insights
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