Key Takeaways

Key Takeaways Economic Diversification: High Point has successfully transitioned from furniture-dependent to a diverse economy led by healthcare (4,000+ jobs at High Point Regional), logistics, and higher education Strategic Location Advantage: Position at I-85/I-40 intersection plus airport proximity creates spillover housing demand from broader Piedmont Triad economic growth Infrastructure Investment: Over $50 million in downtown revitalization and utility upgrades signals local government commitment to supporting continued growth Stable Housing Fundamentals: 3.8% unemployment rate and median income of $45,000 creates predictable demand in the $150,000-$250,000 home price range

High Point's Economic Engine: How Furniture Capital's Job Market Drives Housing in 2026

Look, I've been dealing with properties in High Point for years, and let me tell you — this city's housing market makes a lot more sense when you understand what's really driving the local economy. Sure, everyone knows High Point as the "Furniture Capital of the World," but there's a whole lot more going on here that's affecting home values, rental demand, and investment opportunities.

I had a homeowner call me last month whose husband worked at one of the furniture showrooms downtown. They were worried about whether their house would hold its value with all the changes happening in the industry. Here's what I told them — and what every property owner in High Point needs to understand about how the local economy affects real estate.

The Major Players: Who's Really Employing High Point

The employment landscape in High Point tells the real story of this market. According to recent data from the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the city's largest employers paint a picture of economic diversification that's been years in the making.

High Point Regional Health System leads the pack as the largest employer, with over 4,000 employees. That's significant for housing because healthcare jobs tend to be stable, well-paying, and growing. These workers need places to live within reasonable commuting distance, which keeps demand steady in neighborhoods throughout the city.

The furniture industry still matters — don't let anyone tell you different. High Point Market, which hosts the world's largest furnishings industry trade show twice a year, brings in over 75,000 visitors each event. Companies like Kincaid Furniture, Hooker Furniture, and Universal Furniture still employ thousands of locals. But here's the thing I've noticed: these jobs are changing. More design, less manufacturing. More logistics and distribution, fewer factory floor positions.

What's really interesting from a housing perspective is the growth in transportation and logistics. High Point's location — right in the heart of the Piedmont Triad with easy access to I-85, I-40, and the Greensboro-High Point airport — has attracted major distribution centers. FedEx Ground, Amazon fulfillment operations, and other logistics companies have been expanding their footprint here.

Economic Development: What's Coming Down the Pipeline

The High Point Economic Development Corporation has been busy, and their plans directly impact housing demand. The city's focusing on what they call "strategic industry clusters" — advanced manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and information technology.

The High Point University expansion has been a game-changer. With enrollment pushing 5,500 students and continued campus growth, that's created sustained demand for both student housing and workforce housing for all the people who support the university. I've seen property values in neighborhoods near campus steadily appreciate over the past five years.

Here's something most people don't realize: High Point is part of the larger Piedmont Triad region, which means economic development in Greensboro and Winston-Salem affects housing here too. The recent announcements of tech companies and advanced manufacturing facilities throughout the Triad create what economists call "spillover demand" for housing in High Point, especially for people who want more house for their money but don't mind a reasonable commute.

Infrastructure Investments: The Foundation of Future Growth

Infrastructure tells you where a market is headed, and High Point's investments are pointing toward continued growth. The city has committed over $50 million to downtown revitalization, including streetscape improvements, utility upgrades, and the transformation of the former Furniture Discovery Center into mixed-use development.

The transportation infrastructure is particularly strong. High Point sits at the intersection of two major interstates, has Amtrak service, and is 20 minutes from Piedmont Triad International Airport. That connectivity makes it attractive for both businesses and residents who need to travel for work.

Water and sewer infrastructure has been a focus too, with significant investments in system upgrades that support both existing neighborhoods and new development. This matters for property values because areas with modern, reliable utilities always perform better long-term.

How This Translates to Housing Demand

Based on current employment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, High Point's unemployment rate sits at about 3.8%, slightly below the national average. More importantly, job growth has been steady, with particular strength in healthcare, professional services, and logistics.

This employment stability creates what I call "predictable housing demand." People with steady jobs buy houses, rent apartments, and generally create consistent demand for housing. It's not the boom-bust cycle you see in some markets heavily dependent on one industry.

The median household income in High Point is approximately $45,000, according to recent Census estimates. That puts the sweet spot for housing demand in the $150,000-$250,000 range for homebuyers, assuming traditional lending standards. For investors, this suggests strong rental demand in the $800-$1,200 monthly range.

Market Realities: What This Means for Property Owners

Here's where it gets practical. If you own property in High Point, these economic factors are working in your favor in several ways. The diversity of employers means you're not completely dependent on one industry's health. The infrastructure investments suggest local government is committed to supporting growth. The regional connectivity means High Point benefits from economic growth throughout the Triad.

But every market has its challenges. Some of the older furniture industry properties — think former manufacturing facilities — can be tough to repurpose. I've helped property owners who inherited old industrial buildings that just don't make sense in today's economy. Sometimes the best solution is to sell to someone with the resources and expertise to handle the redevelopment.

For residential properties, the key is understanding which neighborhoods are positioned to benefit from this economic growth. Areas with good access to major employers, updated infrastructure, and reasonable home prices tend to perform best.

The HOMESELL USA Perspective

At HOMESELL USA, we see High Point's economic fundamentals as generally positive for property owners. The diversity of employers, ongoing infrastructure investment, and regional connectivity create a stable foundation for real estate values. That said, we also work with property owners who have situations that don't fit the traditional market — inherited properties, homes needing major repairs, or properties with other complications.

Whether the economy is strong or weak, there are always property owners who need solutions that don't involve the traditional listing process. That's where our expertise in buying houses in any condition, handling complicated title issues, and closing quickly becomes valuable.

The bottom line is this: High Point's economy is more diverse and stable than many people realize. The transition from pure manufacturing to a broader economic base has been challenging, but it's positioned the city for sustainable growth. For property owners, that means opportunities — whether you're holding for appreciation, renting for income, or need to sell quickly due to changing circumstances.

If you own property in High Point and you're wondering how these economic trends might affect your situation — or if you have a property that's not performing the way you hoped — give Uncle Charles a call. No pressure, no judgment, just straight talk about your options in today's market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is High Point's economy too dependent on the furniture industry?
A: Not anymore. While furniture remains important, High Point has diversified significantly. Healthcare, logistics, higher education, and professional services now make up a large portion of the employment base. High Point Regional Health System alone employs over 4,000 people.

Q: How does High Point University affect the local housing market?
A: With over 5,500 students and continued expansion, HPU creates consistent demand for both student housing and workforce housing for faculty, staff, and service workers. Properties near campus have seen steady appreciation over the past five years.

Q: What's the typical price range for homes in High Point?
A: Based on the median household income of approximately $45,000, most homebuyer demand falls in the $150,000-$250,000 range. This creates strong rental demand in the $800-$1,200 monthly range for investors.

Q: How does High Point's location affect property values?
A: High Point's position at the intersection of I-85 and I-40, plus proximity to Piedmont Triad International Airport, makes it attractive for both businesses and residents. This connectivity allows the city to benefit from economic growth throughout the entire Triad region.

Q: Are there opportunities for investors in High Point's changing economy?
A: Yes, particularly in properties that serve the growing healthcare and logistics workforce. However, some older industrial properties from the furniture era can be challenging to repurpose and may require specialized expertise to handle effectively.