Höganäs began as a small fishing village in the parish of Väsby, documented in 1488 in the written form Høyenæss.

During the 19th century more industries were built using clay for making ceramic products.

Since 1971 it is the seat of Höganäs Municipality, encompassing the Kullaberg peninsula with totally around 24,000 inhabitants.

In 2009, the city began accepting the euro in its shops, restaurants, banks, and other businesses.

[7][8][9] More than 30 shops accept euros in cash as a part of a PR attempt.