$1,001,030Average Value$658Average Price per Sq Ft64Homes For Sale
Newer master-planned city in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains
Known locally as “RSM,” Rancho Santa Margarita is a master-planned Orange County city at the base of Saddleback Mountain — the highest peak in the Santa Ana range. Set right on State Route 241, within a few miles of several major interstates, RSM is surrounded by sprawling parks and nature preserves and offers lower home prices than Irvine, 19 miles away. The highly rated Saddleback Valley Unified School District draws families with young children, and many residents commute to Irvine and other Orange County cities.
Rancho Santa Margarita Lake Park is a 1.5-acre recreation park in the City of Rancho Santa Margarita.
Residents can enjoy walking and biking around Rancho Santa Margarita Lake in the City of Rancho Santa Margarita.
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Dual language and International Baccalaureate programs
The Saddleback Valley Unified School District is rated an overall A by Niche. District-wide programs include the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years and Diploma Programmes, as well as a Spanish Dual Language Immersion Program.
The teachers and staff are top notch at the City of Rancho Santa Margarita Intermediate School.
Trabuco Mesa Elementary is a Public K-6 School in the City of Rancho Santa Margarita.
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Toll roads to Irvine
Rancho Santa Margarita is bisected by the Foothill Transportation Corridor (State Route 241), a toll road connecting RSM to Irvine in about 19 miles. Residents primarily rely on their cars to get around, but Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) buses serve the community, and Route 82 travels to the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Metrolink Station. Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo is about 8 miles away, and John Wayne Airport is about 20 miles away.
Shopping plazas around Santa Margarita Parkway
Santa Margarita Parkway winds through the city’s commercial corridor, lined with shopping plazas that echo Mediterranean design — terracotta tiles, arched walkways and stone-colored facades. These shopping centers each offer big-name retailers like Target, Trader Joe’s and Kohl’s; dining ranges from fast-casual chains to upscale sit-down dining. At Mercado Del Lago, residents can dine outdoors with waterfront views of Lago Rancho Santa Margarita. The Rancho Santa Margarita Town Center features Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas, the only movie theater in town, and Hanna’s Prime Steakhouse. Opened in 2005, Hanna’s has made a name for itself nationally, dubbed one of the top 100 restaurants in the United States by Yelp.
Residents can grab home essentials at Target in the City of Rancho Santa Margarita Town Center.
Belle Boutique in the City of Rancho Santa Margarita features the latest styles to help you look your best.
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Mediterranean inspired homes, condos and townhomes
As of early 2025, Rancho Santa Margarita’s median home price is $1.42 million, compared to Irvine’s $1.6 million. The community's two-story single-family homes, condos and townhomes all have Spanish-style details. Palm trees wave above red tile roofs, multi-car garages and manicured lawns maintained by each neighborhoods respective homeowners associations. While the larger villas can cost close to $2,000,000 or more, condos can be purchased for around $600,000. Popular neighborhoods for families with young children include Robinson Ranch in the northeastern Trabuco Canyon and Trabuco Highlands.
Some larger homes in the City of Rancho Santa Margarita feature 3-car garages and large lots.
The City of Rancho Santa Margarita has condominiums located near Rancho Santa Margarita Lake Park.
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Lago Rancho Santa Margarita and seasonal events
The city has 22 privately owned parks and open green spaces, many with playgrounds, walking trails and open fields for sports. The 22-acre Trabuco Highlands Central Park is the biggest, with an Olympic-size pool and soccer field. The park hosts the community's annual Summer Concert Series and the two-day Rancho Family Fest each autumn, which features local Orange County bands, food vendors and game booths.
Encircled by a walking path, the 12-acre Lago Santa Margarita comes alive each May during the Fishing Derby, when anglers drop their lines for bass, bluegill and catfish. The Tijeras Creek and Dove Canyon golf clubs both have 18-hole courses, and there are miles of canyon trails at 4,500-acre O'Neill Regional Park.
Attendees put out the chairs and blankets for the fireworks at the Star Spangled Spectacular in the City of Rancho Santa Margarita.
The City of Rancho Santa Margarita's serene lake setting enhances the peaceful and joyful atmosphere of the event.
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Low crime rates
Rancho Santa Margarita's rates of violent and property crime are well below state and national averages. However, the city’s mountainside location, with high winds, often low humidity and lush vegetation, makes it susceptible to wildfires. In summer, temperatures here can reach 100 degrees, and winter sees occasional snow flurries. Realtor Daniel Finder, who lives and works in Rancho Santa Margarita, describes RSM as “-er country. It’s wetter, elevated higher, hotter and windier.”
Written By
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Photography Contributed By
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Video By
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Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA over the last 12 months is $929,450, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located in the prestigious guard-gated community of Dove Canyon in Trabuco Canyon, this beautifully maintained golf course residence offers approximately 3,336 square feet of living space with panoramic View. Ideally positioned along the award-winning Dove Canyon Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature course, the home combines elegance, comfort, and functionality. The floor plan features 4
Welcome to 20 Highpoint in the prestigious guard-gated community of Dove Canyon. This beautifully appointed home offers 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a dramatic sweeping staircase, and a spacious 3-car garage.The modern farmhouse-inspired kitchen is the heart of the home, showcasing quartz countertops, abundant cabinetry, a walk-in pantry, and generous natural light. Seamlessly open to the
Nestled on the peaceful Tijeras Creek Country Club in the safe, family-friendly city of Rancho Santa Margarita. This stunning 4 bedroom 3 bath home is pure luxury. Downstairs, you will find a private guest suite-one bedroom with walk in shower perfect for visitors or in laws. Inside laundry room keeps things easy while on the main floor. The set up flows seamlessly: a bright living room, formal
Located in the prestigious guard-gated community of Dove Canyon in Trabuco Canyon, this beautifully maintained golf course residence offers approximately 3,336 square feet of living space with panoramic View. Ideally positioned along the award-winning Dove Canyon Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature course, the home combines elegance, comfort, and functionality. The floor plan features 4
Distinguished Robinson Ranch Estate where mountain serenity meets resort caliber living. Framed by breathtaking mountain views and designed for both grand entertaining and intimate moments, this six-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath home is a private sanctuary in one of Orange County’s most coveted communities. Beyond the front doors, an expansive, beautifully remodeled interior unfolds—where
Some homes are built... others are loved into existence. This nearly 2,500 sq. ft. two-story home, tucked away on a rare cul-de-sac in Robinson Ranch, is a true reflection of pride of ownership, craftsmanship, and heart. For its first and only owners, every detail was thoughtfully considered, creating a home that feels both timeless and deeply personal. From the moment you step inside, natural
Nestled in the desirable guard-gated community of Brighton Glen, is a rare opportunity to own this stunning pool home on an expansive 15,000 sq ft lot, tucked away at the end of maintained cul-de-sac. With exceptional curb appeal, this home welcomes you with a long driveway offering abundant parking, attractive exterior paint, custom entry doors, and a charming brick patio, all set in a peaceful,
Welcome to 20 Highpoint in the prestigious guard-gated community of Dove Canyon. This beautifully appointed home offers 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a dramatic sweeping staircase, and a spacious 3-car garage.The modern farmhouse-inspired kitchen is the heart of the home, showcasing quartz countertops, abundant cabinetry, a walk-in pantry, and generous natural light. Seamlessly open to the
PLENTY OF BANG FOR THE BUCK! According to SafeWise, welcome to the safest city in all of California; Rancho Santa Margarita. The Mission Courts tract is centrally located, so please factor in taking full advantage of nearby, city-wide amenities that include carefully planned SAMLARC features such as pools, pickleball courts, tennis courts, picnic areas, playgrounds, softball fields, hiking
Nestled on the peaceful Tijeras Creek Country Club in the safe, family-friendly city of Rancho Santa Margarita. This stunning 4 bedroom 3 bath home is pure luxury. Downstairs, you will find a private guest suite-one bedroom with walk in shower perfect for visitors or in laws. Inside laundry room keeps things easy while on the main floor. The set up flows seamlessly: a bright living room, formal
Welcome to your dream home! This beautiful two-story townhome is nestled in Rancho Santa Margarita; a vibrant community rated the safest city in California. 1,644 square foot layout with 3 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 updated bathrooms. Ideal, end of cul-de-sac location, with serene canyon views. The reimagined kitchen has been expanded and opened to adjoining living and dining rooms, enhancing a
Welcome to 16 Mariposa, a spacious and beautifully appointed home located in the highly sought-after 24 hr guard-gated community of Dove Canyon, known for its scenic beauty, rolling hills, and premier Jack Nicklaus signature golf course. This exclusive community offers a tranquil, resort-like setting with 24-hour security and an abundance of amenities for an elevated lifestyle.Boasting over
SINGLE LEVEL POOL HOME!!!!! Tucked away in the highly sought-after Vista Ladera community of Rancho Santa Margarita, this rare single-level detached home offers a truly exceptional opportunity—combining privacy, upgrades, and a backyard that is almost unheard of for the neighborhood.From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the charm and uniqueness of this 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence.
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom corner unit ideally located in the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita. Situated in a prime location, this home is just minutes from RSM Lake and Mercado Del Lago, offering convenient access to dining, scenic nature trails, bird watching, and fishing.The home features a well-appointed kitchen complete with a stove, oven, and
Welcome to 21865 Delicia in the highly coveted enclave of Rancho Cielo. As you approach this home you will immediately be drawn to it's inviting curb appeal and it's location at the end of the cul de sac on a single loaded street. Locations do not get better than this! The rear yard and deck open to nothing but trees and trails. The peaceful nature behind the rear yard and the rear deck is true
Available NOW in the desirable Corte Melina community! This beautifully updated 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with a spacious primary bedroom retreat, is ideally located in the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita. Just a short stroll from Central Park, local restaurants, shops, and everyday conveniences, this home offers both comfort and convenience in one of the area’s most sought-after neighborhoods.
Available June 9th, Short or Long Term! This beautifully updated FURNISHED 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhome with a loft offers a perfect blend of comfort and style. Ideal for relocation, temporary housing, or simply enjoying all that Rancho Santa Margarita has to offer, this home is designed to impress. Step into the modern open-concept living area, featuring tasteful furnishings and an updated
Available June 13, 2026! FURNISHED RENTAL. This home features expansive living areas and a flow-through living/dining area. The spacious eat-in kitchen has been entirely modernized and is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, an electric oven and a spacious pantry. The enormous primary bedroom is an oasis of solitude and relaxation, with a luxurious ensuite and a walk-in closet. The main
Eaves Santa Margarita offers furnished and un-furnished one- and two-bedroom apartments in Rancho Santa Margarita. Our Orange County apartments are conveniently located within easy access of the 241 Corridor. Residents will also have access to an amazing array of shopping, dining and recreation venues that includes Ancient Peaks Winery, Wood Ranch BBQ and Grill, Pozo Saloon, Tutto Fresco, Tijeras
Welcome to this inviting single-level condo in the highly desirable Los Portillos community. This upper-unit home features two bedrooms and two bathrooms, with a bright, open layout that makes everyday living easy and enjoyable. The living room is warm and welcoming with plenty of natural light, classic shutter blinds, and a cozy fireplace that’s perfect for relaxing nights in. Just off the
This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and scenic tranquility. Nestled along the second hole of a lush, meticulously landscaped golf course, the property boasts stunning green views and a peaceful atmosphere that feels like a private retreat. A sparkling pool in the backyard provides the ideal space for relaxing afternoons or
Halsey WilliamsSurterre Properties
$2,449 - $3,593 per month
Overture Rancho Santa Margarita 55+ Senior Housing Apartment Homes
Life just keeps getting better, doesn't it? And Overture Rancho Santa Margarita is the perfect place to live it. A welcoming community filled with intriguing people and countless ways to get to spend your time. A gorgeous apartment home, with resort-inspired amenities and services focused on you. A location directly across from Central Park and minutes from Whiting Ranch Trails. And
Nestled on a peaceful, family-friendly cul-de-sac in the exclusive, 24/7 guard-gated Dove Canyon community, this meticulously maintained 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom single-family home offers the perfect blend of luxury, privacy, and timeless appeal. Surrounded by the acclaimed Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, rolling green fairways, mature trees, and canyon vistas, every day feels like a resort
Rental rates, availability, lease terms, deposits, apartment features, amenities, and specials are subject to change without notice. Floor plans and square footages displayed are approximations, may be based on stud-to-stud measurements, and may vary between individual units. Quoted prices are for base rent only and do not include other fees such as application fee (one-time, $45), security
Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence offers over 2,200 square feet (est.) of refined living space. The main level makes a grand impression with soaring ceilings and an open-concept living and dining area, complemented by a cozy family room fireplace. The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s delight, featuring sleek stainless
Come home to comfort at Villa La Paz Apartment Homes in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, a quaint community located in the foothills of the Saddleback mountains. We are conveniently located near the 241 Toll Road, the 5 Freeway and only minutes from shopping, dining, and entertainment. Our unique one and two bedroom apartment homes were designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. Each
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