Suburban living in the golden foothills of the Sierra Nevada
In El Dorado Hills, winding roads twist through the straw-colored slopes of the California countryside east of Folsom Lake. Envisioned as a master-planned community in the 1950s, this unincorporated town outside Sacramento is where the suburbs fizzle out, giving way to the rugged foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. “It’s up in the hills, above the fray,” says Victoria Witham, broker at Witham Real Estate and a longtime El Dorado Hills resident. “It’s a little escape from the hustle and bustle of Sacramento.” Gated communities, spacious homes, large lots and plenty of outdoor recreation have made this one of the fastest growing communities in the region, and one of the most expensive.
El Dorado Hills begins the climb out of the Sacramento Valley.
El Dorado Hills has miles of trails paved and unpaved.
High-end homes are available in El Dorado hills on large lots.
The winding roads of El Dorado Hills adds to the unique lay of the land here.
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Spacious homes, large lots and hillside views
El Dorado Hills offers a wide range of upscale homes in gated communities and subdivisions. Contemporary-style homes are the most common here, owing to the town’s rapid expansion over the past three decades, but there are also older homes that date back to the 1960s, 70s and 80s. Many homes are situated along rolling hillsides with sweeping views of the countryside. Some of the most exclusive neighborhoods have homes that sit just a few hundred yards from the shores of Folsom Lake. The median home price is around $900,000, with modest midcentury homes typically listing for less, while luxury homes can top $2 million.
Homes in El Dorado Hills with an unobstructed view of Folsom Lake sell for a premium price.
Red tile roofs are found all across California but are rare in El Dorado Hills.
Some El Dorado Hills homes sit close to the shore of Folsom Lake.
The median home price in El Dorado Hills is about $900,000, while newer, luxury homes can top $2 million.
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Lakeside activities, community parks and country clubs
Outdoor recreation abounds in El Dorado Hills. Residents can book a tee-time at the high-end Serrano Country Club, spend a day boating and sunbathing at Folsom Lake or hike the many trails that extend out into the hillsides outside of town. There are also 28 community parks encompassing over 500 acres within El Dorado Hills, so residents are never far from playgrounds, ballfields and picnic areas. Plans for new parks are moving ahead, with the goal of having one neighborhood park within a half mile of every home. Lake Tahoe, one of the nation’s premier outdoor tourism destinations, is only an hour and a half east.
Serrano Country Club is a high-end neighborhood within El Dorado Hills.
Browns Ravine Trailhead offers residents of El Dorado Hills a well-maintained walking path.
About 2 million people visit the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area each year.
El Dorado Hills Community Park has a covered playground for the tiny tots.
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Highly rated public schools
El Dorado Hills is home to highly rated schools. The Buckeye Union Elementary School District earns a B-plus rating from Niche, while the Rescue Union Elementary School District earns an A-minus, and the El Dorado Union High School District earns an A. Oak Ridge High is among the state’s top echelon of schools for its graduation rate, far exceeding the statewide average. It’s also known for its athletic programs, which have brought home several state and regional championships over the past 20 years.
The student population of Oak Meadow Elementary is 473.
Niche gives Lake Forest Elementary an A- grade for academics.
Oak Ridge High School is the last step before a college career for students in El Dorado Hills.
Oak Ridge High School has State Championships to their credit.
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Shopping, dining and entertainment close to home
El Dorado Hills Town Center is the go-to shopping destination. This walkable commercial district has dozens of restaurants, local businesses, a hotel and a movie theater. Groceries and everyday goods can be found at Target, Raley’s and Nugget Markets. There’s also a much smaller shopping plaza near the northern edge of the town with a Safeway, a gas station and several local eateries. For everything else, more shopping is on tap a few miles away in the city of Folsom.
The El Dorado Hills Town Center is a vast shopping area with dozens of stores.
Relish Burger Bar is a tasty go to in El Dorado Hills
Regal Cinemas was renovated and provides modern amenities to moviegoers in El Dorado Hills.
Nugget Market is a family-owned grocer that offers high-end food to El Dorado Hills residents.
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Getting around greater Sacramento
Because El Dorado Hills is in the outskirts of the Sacramento metropolitan area, residents will likely need a car to get around. U.S. Route 50 runs along the southern edge of the town and is the quickest way to get to into Sacramento, about 30 miles away. The Sacramento International Airport is the nearest major airport, about 40 miles away, with nonstop flights to major cities like Washington D.C., Los Angeles and Miami.
Low crime in El Dorado County
El Dorado Hills doesn’t have its own police department. The town falls under the jurisdiction of the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office. The county’s violent crime and property crime rates are typically low. In 2023, there were 62 violent offenses per 100,000 residents, which is 63% lower than the national average and 45% lower than the statewide average, according to FBI stats.
Written By
Daniel Berti
Photography Contributed By
Wesley Jimerson
Video By
Tyler Hall
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Carla Hart,
an experienced agent in this area.
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.
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On average, homes in El Dorado Hills, CA sell after 78 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in El Dorado Hills, CA over the last 12 months is $875,000, down 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
More space, more land, and more value in El Dorado Hills! Set on approximately one-third of an acre in the established Woodridge neighborhood, this spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bath home offers an incredible opportunity to enjoy the El Dorado Hills lifestylewithout HOA dues or Mello-Roos. Surrounded by beautiful mature oak trees, the property offers exceptional privacy, generous outdoor space, RV
Welcome to an exceptional residence, 10 minutes from El Dorado Hills Town Center, where modern comfort meets resort-style outdoor living. Situated on a spacious lot with beautiful views, RV Parking, and room for an ADU, this impressive home offers a light-filled, open-concept interior designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The expansive chef's kitchen is the heart of the home,
Christopher WolfeeXp Realty of Northern California, Inc.
Enjoy the vibrant community of Waterford in this SPECTACULAR WATERFORD HOME: spacious, flexible floor plan, kitchen w/granite tile countertop & gas cooktop, tile floors, large family room with wet bar and gas fireplace, dedicated home office with 1000MBs internet available, downstairs bedroom. Two generous upstairs bedrooms overlook the tree-lined backyard and pool plus the spacious master suite
Nestled on nearly 0.8 acres of beautifully landscaped, park-like grounds, this timeless European-inspired custom estate offers exceptional privacy, elegant architecture, and an unbeatable location just minutes from El Dorado Hills Town Center, upscale shopping, dining, top-rated schools, and the scenic trails of Folsom Lake. A grand two-story foyer welcomes you with soaring ceilings, a sweeping
Set within the scenic Sierra Nevada foothills, this spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers over 2,600 square feet of comfortable living on a quarter-acre lot in desirable Cameron Park. Thoughtfully designed with both functionality and style in mind, the home features high ceilings that create an open, airy feel throughout the main living areas. Step into the welcoming living room and continue
Welcome home to the best deal in Blackstone! One of El Dorado Hills' most coveted gated enclaves. This immaculate, 1,429-square-foot single-story residence sits perfectly on an oversized corner lot, offering a seamless blend of privacy and community connection. Inside, the open-concept great room flows effortlessly from the gourmet kitchenoutfitted with granite counters and stainless steel
Fresh new carpet, new price, and new twilight photos showcase how you could be enjoying late summer evenings in Blackstone! This spacious El Dorado Hills home offers the layout many buyers are looking for, including a downstairs primary suite, 5 bedrooms, 4 full baths, an upstairs loft, and owned solar. Want the pool without spending your entire weekend maintaining a huge yard? This backyard is
Located in the highly sought-after, established Serrano neighborhood, this beautiful, move-in-ready home welcomes you with a grand entrance, slate flooring, and a bright, inviting floor plan. The open kitchen features stainless steel appliances, abundant cabinetry, and plenty of workspace while overlooking the cozy family room with custom built-ins, creating a comfortable space for everyone to
Discover the perfect blend of space, privacy, and lifestyle at 2072 Moonstone Circle, in the highly sought after Ridgeview Estates! This meticulously maintained 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home offering 3,202 sq ft sits on nearly a 1-acre lot (42,253 sq ft). This exceptional hillside property boasts sweeping panoramic views from the primary suite, a guest bedroom, and the kitchen. The expansive
PRICED DRAMATICALLY BELOW APPRAISAL,SEEN ON NATIONAL TV, THIS SERRANO MODEL HOME IS REIMAGINED ON A PARK WITH VIEWS! THIS IS A TURN KEY MASTERPIECE, NEWLY, FULLY REMODELED PARK SIDE HIDEAWAY! Nestled within secure gates on a quiet lane in the BEST village, amidst vintage oaks, near to the legendary Serrano Golf Course and County Club. Enjoy 4-5 bedroom, 3 bath, 3 car garage with CLEAR PEST and
Welcome to this nice, 2 bed and 2 bath home in the Heritage community! It has a great room, large bedroom suite and a cute front/backyard! The yards have a drip system that'll help with its low maintenance. Owned solar is included. Come take a look at this well maintained home!
Positioned behind the guarded gates of the prestigious Serrano Country Club, this extraordinary new construction estate brings striking modern architecture, sophisticated design, and resort-style living to one of El Dorado Hills' most sought-after communities. Thoughtfully positioned to capture panoramic views across the Sacramento Valley, the Downtown Sacramento skyline, Folsom Lake, and
Welcome to the home you've been waiting for! This stunning custom residence in Ridgeview Village offers over 3,700 square feet of beautifully updated living space with premium upgrades throughout. From the moment you enter, you'll appreciate the thoughtful design featuring a formal living room, elegant dining room, and an expansive family room highlighted by a breathtaking porcelain feature wall
Prime corner lot in the desirable Lake Hills Estates of El Dorado Hills! This ready-to-build parcel offers the perfect opportunity to design and construct your dream home. Enjoy serene lake views and a peaceful neighborhood setting. Water meter is already on site, saving you time and expense. Excellent location close to top-rated schools, shopping, and recreation. No HOA and No Mello-Roos! A rare
Prime corner lot in the desirable Lake Hills Estates of El Dorado Hills! This ready-to-build parcel offers the perfect opportunity to design and construct your dream home. Enjoy serene lake views and a peaceful neighborhood setting. Water meter is already on site, saving you time and expense. Excellent location close to top-rated schools, shopping, and recreation. No HOA and No Mello-Roos! A rare
Exclusive and sophisticated, Element 79 apartment homes provide a lavish lifestyle inside the vibrant El Dorado Hills Town Center, giving you instant access to premier dining, shopping, and entertainment. Luxury details and curated comforts come together beautifully in our spacious one and two-bedroom apartments. Each upscale home features designer oversized closets, elegant wood flooring,
Offering designer condo-level finishes and high-end amenities, our community of luxury apartment homes provides a lifestyle that is unparalleled throughout prestigious El Dorado Hills. Discover spacious one, two, and three-bedroom floor plans featuring open concepts, private patios or balconies, and gourmet kitchens with granite countertops and sleek stainless-steel appliances. This prime
Welcome to El Dorado Village Apartments. Our prestigious community offers the best comfort around. We offer one- and two-bedroom apartments with wonderful views, nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Each apartment home comes with a one car detached garage, and a full-sized washer and dryer. We are close to Folsom Lake, and the best schools are within walking distance. You will enjoy our
Our residences make it easy to enjoy life in El Dorado Hills, with resort amenities, beautiful gourmet kitchens, in-home washer and dryers, cozy gas fireplaces, and spacious private patios and balconies. Chic interior finishes, such as granite counter-tops and soaring ceilings, makes your home a unique retreat, perfect for lounging around.
When only the best will do, experience Lake Forest in El Dorado Hills, where we didn't just build you an apartment, we built you a home.Unmatched quality in every detail is presented to you in a classic style. Our residents enjoy a peaceful and luxurious lifestyle in beautiful El Dorado Hills.Lake Forest is ideally located-high on a wooded knoll, above the fog, in prestigious El
Property Id: 2792568 Beautiful suburban residential neighborhood in gorgeous El Dorado Hills; Secluded very nice 2-bedroom, 1 full bathroom (both tub/shower) house (duplex); approx. 975 sq. ft. is size; 1 car garage with garage door opener with remote, newer central air/heat unit, dishwasher, stove/oven/refrigerator, garbage disposal, microwave, fenced side/back yards. energy efficient dual
Welcome to this beautiful and inviting 1,900-square-foot home located in the highly desirable community of El Dorado Hills. This spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a comfortable layout, modern upgrades, and a peaceful setting.The home features a large living room, separate dining area, cozy fireplace, and plenty of natural light. Recent improvements include a brand-new air-conditioning
Available for immediate move-in at $3,450 per month, this single-story home for lease in Serrano offers a flexible floor plan, new HVAC, a private courtyard, and thoughtfully designed indoor-outdoor living in El Dorado Hills. A gated courtyard entry with fireplace creates a welcoming arrival and extends the home's living space outdoors. Inside, the open floor plan features three bedrooms, a
Property Id: 2132747 A private bedroom is available in a clean and comfortable 3-bedroom / 2-bath home in El Dorado Hills (95762). Rent: $1,150/month Security Deposit: $1,150 Bathroom: Shared Lease: Minimum initial 3-month commitment Utilities: Not included and shared among residents No smoking No pets The other two residents are women, so a
This modern 2023-built 6-bedroom home in El Dorado Hills' prestigious Hidden Ridge community offers 4,180 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. The open-concept floor plan features a grand foyer, expansive living areas, and seamless indoor-outdoor living opening to a newly completed resort-style backyard with a sparkling in-ground pool, expansive paver patio, covered California room, and
Christopher WolfeeXp Realty of Northern California, Inc.
This home features a large living room with high ceilings, open kitchen with room for a dining table, 2 walk in closets for the primary bedroom, a downstairs bedroom with a full bathroom, and a large yard with raised bed planter boxes. QUALIFICATIONS:3x monthly rent in income.720 MINIMUM credit score for each applicant.2 years verifiable and clean rental history.More
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