As one of the Western Communities, or West Shore municipalities, outside Victoria, Highlands has a population of 2,225 as of 2016.

The region stretches along the Saanich Inlet shoreline from north of Goldstream to Mackenzie Bight.

Highlands is one of the more undeveloped areas of the Greater Victoria region; it is one of the newest Greater Victoria municipalities created within the Capital Regional District.

Although the area is seen as a target for residential expansion of the Greater Victoria region, it is known mainly for its lakes, hills, and wilderness.

The nearest commercial shopping areas are in the adjacent municipality of Langford.