Ladera Ranch is not just selling homes—it is selling a lifestyle, and an upscale one at that. Developers broke ground in the 1990s with the goal of distilling the best of small-town living in a master-planned community. The Orange County community enjoys scenic views of the Saddleback foothills and proximity to Capistrano Beach. “Buyers are drawn in by the feeling of a small town and the amenities within the community,” says Ashley Blair, community services director for Ladera Ranch Community Services. Ladera Ranch Maintenance Corporation, LARMAC, provides community services through a monthly fee.
An overview of Ladera Ranch, CA.
Ladera ranch sign
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Million-dollar homes in nine village neighborhoods
Homes in Ladera Ranch sell for a median of $1.7 million, but that high price tag buys more than just the house. Divided into nine village neighborhoods, the community provides residents with easy access to shopping, spa-like pools and quiet streets. Although the oldest home in the neighborhood is not yet 30, some favor classic designs like Spanish Revival, Craftsman and Colonial Revival. The largest homes can be found in Covenant Hills Village , which is the only gated community.
Ladera Ranch has large and spacious homes.
There are a variety of styles for homes in Ladera Ranch, CA.
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Outdoor living in Ladera Ranch
Hiking and biking trails weave through the community and up bordering hills. “Each neighborhood has a pool or plunge within walking distance,” Blair says. “They’re also close to parks with playgrounds, a skate park, a water park and a dog park.” Ladera Ranch residents can visit any of the private-access parks and pools. Community pools are heated and can be enjoyed most of the year. Mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts can explore the trails, which Blair says are some of the best in the area. One trail goes 10 miles to Doheny Beach, where visitors can surf, fish and soak up the sun.
Take a dip in the pools at Ladera Ranch, CA.
Avendale Park is tucked away in the Ladera Ranch neighborhood and provides wonderful adventures.
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Contests, campouts and concerts
LARMAC hosts over 20 events a year, including the annual family campout and a summer concert series. Over 10,000 people attend the Fourth of July celebration that features runs, rides, a concert and fireworks. The Halloween Home Decorating contest encourages healthy competition among neighbors for the best spooky display. During the winter holidays, residents can participate in house decorating contests, visits from Santa, a menorah lighting and the Winter Fest. In addition to events, it sponsors clubs and sports leagues. Teenage residents can participate in game nights, classes and clubs through the Teens in Ladera program.
Children can explore their creative side with arts and crafts during the Spring Celebration.
The farmers market in Ladera Ranch, CA, has local produce and artisan goods.
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Highly rated schools serving Ladera Ranch
Capistrano Unified School District serves Ladera Ranch. The highly rated district, which earned an A-plus on Niche, has many competitive schools. The three high schools serving Ladera Ranch—Capistrano Valley High School, San Juan Hills High School and Tesoro High School—all earned A-plus ratings from Niche. Santa Margarita Catholic High School is a popular private option that is about 8 miles away and known for producing all-star NBA and NFL players as well as an Olympic gold medalist.
Capistrano Valley High School is a diverse and inclusive school.
Tesoro High School is the home of the Titans.
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Ladera Ranch restaurants and businesses
Ladera Ranch is a self-contained community with its own shopping and dining plazas. Bridgepark Plaza on the western side of the city has fast food and groceries, while a mile and a half east there are more dining and grocery options as well as home good stores and a gym. “There is plenty to choose from when it comes to dining in the community. The Ranch Sports Bar is a great place to grab a burger and watch a game,” says Blair.
Home Goods, in Ladera Ranch, offers a great variety of budget friendly decor for your home.
Stater Bros in Ladera Ranch has fresh produce, meats, and products to choose from.
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Proximity to Orange County cities
“The community was designed with a strong sense of a small town with neighborhoods connected by trails and walking paths,” says Blair. While trails and bike lanes connect the various villages a car is needed to visit neighboring towns. Mission Viejo is closest, at 5 miles north. Interstate 5 runs just outside town, connecting residents with employment hubs like Irvine, 20 miles north. Capistrano Beach is 12 miles south.
Crime in Ladera Ranch
Ladera Ranch is served by the South Patrol Division of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Rates of violent and property crime are lower than the state and national average. Of the city’s nine neighborhoods, they averaged a CAP Index Crime Score of 1.6 out of 10, points lower than the national average of 4.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.