Set in the Inland Empire's Riverside County, the hilly city of Lake Elsinore is about 35 miles south of Riverside and 75 miles northeast of San Diego, with a lower average home price than both. The city's namesake freshwater lake is the largest in Southern California, offering 10 miles' worth of largely public shoreline, and the Elsinore Mountains border the city to the west. Lake Elsinore's slogan is "Dream Extreme," a nod to the city's history and small-town feel, as well as its growth and potential.
Once famous for its mineral springs, the city's former bath houses, resorts and country clubs attracted thousands of visitors between the 1880s and the mid-20th century. “In its heyday, Lake Elsinore's appeal rivaled that of Palm Springs," notes longtime resident Dave McElroy, a volunteer docent at the Lake Elsinore Museum. “Hollywood stars used to come here for an escape from the big city.” Today, local springs can still be found at a handful of spots, including the Elsinore Hot Springs & Lodge. From 1969 to 2023, the city hosted the Lake Elsinore Grand Prix, an offroad motocross race that long drew big names in the sport, including actor Steve McQueen.
Today, Lake Elsinore is home to about 73,000 people, as well large manufacturing facilities for Pacific Clay Products and Manton Pushrods; competitive housing prices and work opportunities consistently attract new homebuyers. To accommodate this growth, the city plans to build 30,000 new homes over the next 30 years and create new local on/off ramps for Interstate 15 to ease the flow of traffic.
Enjoy the scenic beauty and vibrant community of Lake Elsinore.
Explore the retail and restaurant options in the Downtown area of Lake Elsinore.
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Lakeside single-family homes and condos
The average home price in Lake Elsinore is $611,000, compared to $721,000 in Riverside and $1.2 million in San Diego. "Many people commute to San Diego," says Craig Flint, Broker with Net Gains Real Estate. "It's about an hour and 30 minutes away and they get much more for their money here." While there are a handful of small, simple bungalows from the 1920s, most local homes are either midcentury ranch-style or 21st-century new traditional with two stories and Craftsman- or Spanish-style details. Throughout the city, home prices range from about $450,000 to $650,000. The lower end of this range includes the modest homes in the Lakeland Village neighborhood near the Elsinore Mountains, and the higher end includes the large homes in the gated community of Tuscany Hills, which has a shared pool and clubhouse.
Homes with terracotta roofs help keep residents cool from the summer heat in Lake Elsinore.
A quint home with dormer windows sits in a quiet neighborhood in Lake Elsinore.
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Boating and more on and around Lake Elsinore
Lake Elsinore itself is used for boating, kayaking, wakeboarding and more, and launch points are found at various marinas and RV resorts. The city's 19 parks are set around the lake, and include the large Serenity Park, which has one of the city's three skate parks, as well as a dog park, playground and multi-use pump-track. Since 1994, the 8,000-seat Lake Elsinore Diamond stadium has been home to the Lake Elsinore Storm, a Single-A baseball team and affiliate of the San Diego Padres.
Experience the stunning view of Lake Elsinore from the mountaintop.
Catch some air at Summerly Community Skate Park in Lake Elsinore.
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Strong Elsinore schools
The Lake Elsinore Unified School District serves 21,000 students with 25 schools and is rated an overall B by Niche. Dating back to 1884, the district is one of the oldest in Riverside County. All three of the district's high schools are rated B-plus, and students have the option to take programs like dual immersion, AVID and STEAM, as well as technical courses. Most of the nearby private schools are in the neighboring city of Wildomar, such as the not-yet-rated Grace Christian School and the A-rated California Lutheran High School.
David A. Brown Middle School is Located Hillside in Wildomar
Temescal Canyon High School has dozens of effective and excellent teachers and staff.
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Main Street eats and discount shopping at outlets
In the Lake Elsinore Historic District, a few blocks' worth of Main Street serves as the city's downtown, lined with low-rise storefronts and historic buildings; some of the latter served as bath houses in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Locally owned businesses here include Papillon Boutique, filled with novelty goodies and Dracula-themed merchandise; Bela Lugosi, star of the 1931 film "Dracula," used to live in Lake Elsinore, and his 1920s home is still here. In recent years, the blocks between the Diamond Stadium and Interstate 15 have grown into a dining hub where fans can grab a bite to eat before or after a game.
Locals can do most of their errands and shopping at Lake Elsinore Town Center. Annie’s Café here is a city staple founded in 1989, where British pub grub meets stateside comfort food. Head chef and lifelong resident Nancy Oceguera says, "Our regulars are family to us, but we treat new customers with the same respect. We celebrate milestones with them like birthdays, baby showers and engagements."
Experience the thrill of bargain hunting at Lake Elsinore Outlet.
Stater Bros in Lake Elsinore offers top-quality groceries at affordable prices.
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Getting around on the RTA
Interstate 15 leads about 70 miles northwest to Los Angeles and 75 miles southwest to San Diego. The scenic State Route 74, also known as the Ortega Highway, leads about 46 miles to Laguna Beach. Riverside Transit Agency (locally known as RTA) buses stop on Lake Elsinore's main roads and travel throughout Riverside County. The San Bernardino International Airport is about 30 miles away, and Ontario International Airport is about 35 miles north, offering more flight options.
Low crime rates, algae blooms and a high risk of fire
According to FBI statistics from December 2023, the Lake Elsinore Police Department reported violent crime at an annual rate of about 6 incidents per 1,000 residents, compared to the California rate of about 10 and national rate of roughly 12. Property-related crime was reported at an annual rate of around 20 incidents per 1,000 residents, on par with the California rate and higher than the national rate of 17.
A danger advisory has been issued for Lake Elsinore due to extremely high levels of cyanobacteria toxins in the lake. The combination of the lake's shallow water and the area's year-round warm weather causes algae to bloom, potentially exposing residents to toxins. Lake Elsinore is a wildfire-prone area, due to proximity to the Cleveland National Forest and the strong Ortega winds that can spread fires quickly. In 2024, the Macy Fire burned 145 acres in the city, causing evacuations and destroying one home. To reduce the danger, the city has put in place strict fire safety rules, including requiring property owners to clear flammable vegetation from their land. The city's four fire stations and fire marshals work hard to enforce these rules and educate residents on how to prevent and prepare for wildfires. Even so, thousands of properties in the area remain at risk of being affected by a wildfire in the next 30 years.
Written By
Braxton Chea
Photography Contributed By
Khiem Huynh
Video By
Taylor Gilbert
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On average, homes in Lake Elsinore, CA sell after 61 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Elsinore, CA over the last 12 months is $600,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Tuscany Hills View Home with Over $150,000 in Upgrades!Enjoy breathtaking sunrise views from this beautifully upgraded Tuscany Hills home on a large lot just blocks from the community pool, spa, and courts. Step through custom metal double doors with textured glass into a home showcasing over $150,000 in designer upgrades and elegant finishes.Features include travertine flooring,
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located at 19845 Silverwood Drive, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530, proudly offered by its original owner. This inviting residence features a well-designed layout with separate living and family rooms, a formal dining area, and an open-concept kitchen and living space that’s perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. This beautiful
Welcome to 36696 Pavic Court, a stunning residence nestled in the heart of Lake Elsinore’s most sought-after community, Canyon Hills. Perfectly positioned at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this exceptional home sits on a premium lot with no rear neighbors, offering sweeping views of rolling hills, breathtaking sunsets, and a rare sense of peace and privacy. Spanning an impressive 3,721 square
Spectacular Tuscany Hills home on a cul-de-sac with stunning views of Canyon Lake, valley, and mountains. Watermark by Pulte Homes’ largest floorplan with a spacious grassy, pool-size yard. Features 5 bedrooms plus bonus room, loft and 2 Master suites. Grand entry with double doors, soaring ceilings, and sweeping staircase. Elegant formal living and dining rooms, each with fireplace. Gourmet
VA-LOAN ELIGIBLE CONDO!! 2-CAR ATTACHED GARAGE | PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS | UPGRADED | END UNIT | MOVE-IN READY | OPEN CONCEPT | Welcome to this beautiful condo in the desirable Belcaro Lake Point community, where comfort, style, and convenience come together. Step inside and be greeted by abundant natural light and panoramic views that create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout. The living
Welcome to 31755 Ridgeview Drive, a spacious two-story home located in the scenic hills of Lake Elsinore. Built in 2001, this well-maintained residence offers approximately 2,655 square feet of living space with a total of 6 bedrooms and three bathrooms. The property features RV parking, a wrought-iron gate for added privacy, and a large patio, complete with patio cover, outdoor fan and
The owner just finished renovation of the entire condo. list of upgrades includes brand new vinyl flooring in the entire condo, brand new cabinets, brand new quartz countertop, brand new vanity with quartz countertop, new baseboards, new paint in entire of the condo, brand new faucets and sinks. also, less than 18 months new washer and dryer, dish washer, microwave, garbage disposal and new
APN 378-241-032 in Lake Elsinore has 0.03 acres. The vacant land is zoned R1. This parcel does not have a street address, Stevens St is listed as a reference.
Scenic Country Club Heights offers three lots side-by-side in the City of Lake Elsinore – Your investment in the future starts here! Activities in the surrounding area include hiking, fishing, boating, and parks for recreation. The lots are conveniently close to schools, shopping, dining, and freeway access. Seller prefers to sell them together! Assessor’s Parcel Numbers are: 375153065, 37515366,
Welcome to 29329 Saltbush, a stunning two-story home in the highly sought-after Summerly community of Lake Elsinore. Offering 2,952 sq. ft. of living space, this 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence is designed with comfort, style, and functionality in mind.inside, you’ll find a bedroom and full bath conveniently located downstairs, perfect for guests or multi-generational living. The main living
Great opportunity to own .14 acres of residential vacant land in Lake Elsinore, CA, offering an excellent setting for a future home or long-term investment. This parcel is located within an established residential area, providing neighborhood appeal while still allowing flexibility for development. Enjoy the benefits of a central Lake Elsinore location with proximity to schools, shopping, and
Turn-key FHA/VA Approved Lake Elsinore condo features 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, an open floor plan with abundant natural light that highlights stunning views. The sizeable living area is perfect for entertaining and family time, while the separate dining area opens to a generous covered patio overlooking the community park and Lake Elsinore. Catch mesmerizing sunsets each evening. The kitchen
Exceptional large-scale land investment opportunity in Lake Elsinore. Approximately 1000 acres, offering the potential for future single-family residential development subject to entitlements and city approvals. Strategically located within a region experiencing continued population growth, infrastructure expansion, and housing demand. Suitable for master-planned community concepts, long-term
Scenic Country Club Heights offers three lots side-by-side in the City of Lake Elsinore – Your investment in the future starts here! Activities in the surrounding area include hiking, fishing, boating, and parks for recreation. The lots are conveniently close to schools, shopping, dining, and freeway access. Seller prefers to sell them together! Assessor’s Parcel Numbers are: 375153065, 37515366,
This is a beautiful newer home, built in 2021, located in gated Westlake Community. FULLY PAID SOLAR, LOW POWER BILL, GREAT VIEWS! This meticulously maintained home features 4-bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. The main level has one bedroom and one full bath; Bright living room connected to kitchen which has an Island and pantry. Walking upstairs to 2nd level, there is a nice-sized den which could
Live the good life and feel like you’re on an extended vacation at River’s Edge Apartment Homes. Select an apartment in Lake Elsinore, CA, that’s part of our amazing community and you’ll be rewarded with a peaceful, comfortable home in a convenient location that’s near work, school and play. River’s Edge offers resort-style living with one and two-bedroom apartments featuring modern open
GORGEOUS 4 BEDROOM 3 BATHROOM HOME! THIS PROPERTY OFFERS SO MANY UPGRADES. THE KITCHEN HAS GRANITE COUNTER TOPS, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES AND UNDER CABINET KITCHEN LIGHTING. CUSTOM FIT FAUX BLINDS AND CEILING FANS ARE INSTALLED THROUGHOUT THE HOME. INDOOR LAUNDRY ROOM WITH WASHER AND DRYER INCLUDED! FIRST FLOOR HAS 1 BEDROOM AND FULL BATHROOM. THE PROPERTY HAS SOLAR PANLES AS WELL. THE
Welcome to Shoreline Apartments, a community designed for modern living in the heart of Lake Elsinore. Start your day by enjoying the sparkling swimming pool, relaxing jacuzzi, and state-of-the-art fitness center, all just steps from your front door. Each spacious apartment features stainless steel appliances, in-unit washers and dryers, and central air conditioning and heating for your comfort.
Welcome to this Former Model home located in the desirable Crimson Hills community of Lake Elsinore. This was the builder’s showcase home, meaning it was designed to highlight their top-tier finishes, upgrades, and layout—and it shows the moment you walk in. The home offers a bright, open-concept floor plan with recessed lighting throughout and a natural flow between the living, dining, and
Following your dreams leads you to Ridgestone Apartments, where the amenities are exceptional, the recreational spaces are comfort-centered, and the residents are swept up by the vacation vibes. Thats without mentioning the best part the extensive collection of one, two, and three-bedroom floor plans and equally appealing interiors. And the key to these Lake Elsinore apartments opens the door to
Luxury Furnished Lakeview Lease ! Lake Elsinore Refined living awaits in this fully furnished 5-bedroom, 3-bath residence spanning 3,194 sq ft with stunning lake views. Designed for comfort and upscale living, the home features expansive living spaces, abundant natural light, and solar energy efficiency. I bed 1 bath on main level, ideal for a guest room or office. Offered on a minimum 2-year
Floor plan prices listed are market base rents with no additional fees included. For a better understanding of the total monthly rent and possible additional fees, please ask office personnel for further details.*Newly renovated apartment homes in the beautiful city of Lake Elsinore, California. Lake House Apartments provides great community amenities and each apartment home offers
Beautiful Lakeview Home Near Butterfield Elementary – Country-Style Living with Resort Lifestyle Enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and rolling hills from upstairs and right from the street in this beautifully located home in the heart of Lake Elsinore — where peaceful country living meets an active outdoor lifestyle. This spacious and versatile residence offers 4 bedrooms plus a den (ideal as
Elaine VuBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Realty
Charming 1-Bedroom Apartment in the Heart of Lake Elsinore!Location, location, location! Live just two blocks from historic downtown Lake Elsinore, where local restaurants, shops, and year-round events are right at your doorstep.This spacious 620 sq. ft. one-bedroom apartment is your own private oasis, filled with tranquil natural light that flows through a generous living area and a
Lakeland Park Shores - Private Lakeside Community - Newly Built Cottages for Lease. Lakeland Park Shores is a private lakeside community featuring newly constructed cottages designed for comfortable, low-maintenance living. Perfect alternative to renting a room and/or having roommates. This is a detached "single" cottage (no Bedroom) with 1 full Bathroom (with tub and shower). It features
Property Id: 2358546Quiet neighborhood , here you just don't rent my room's you become part of my family here share food , share living room , share patio, share garage, share dinning area, share my home cooked meal's if you wan't, I have a couple of female cats who are friendly and spade ,indoor and outside girls and I have 2 turtle's outside , come be welcome in my home , older
Country Club Heights is an elegant suburban community overlooking the shores of Lake Elsinore. Fulltime residents enjoy secluded custom homes under $625,000 and proximity to the Outlets at Lake Elsinore. “Dream Extreme” is Lake Elsinore’s motto, with plenty of opportunities for thrill seekers in the area. But when it’s time to come home after a day of skydiving or jet ski racing, Country Club Heights offers quiet solace in the hills.<br><br>The most popular activity on the lake is boating, especially from April until public schools resume after summer break. “A campground opened up a couple years ago where people launch boats from and rent yurts and vintage-themed trailers,” says Cassandra Borja, Realtor with Coldwell Banker serving Southern California with over 20 years of experience. The City of Lake Elsinore also hosts fishing derbies and jet ski races on the lake. Folks tend not to swim in the lake, but sunbathers can find a spot in the sand or fire up the grill at Elm Grove Beach. <br><br>Apart from the lake, neighborhood parks offer more venues for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The Alberhill Ranch Community Park is home to over 22 acres of large lighted athletic fields, basketball courts, a pool and the Boys and Girls Clubhouse. Lincoln Street Park also offers basketball courts, walking paths and picnic areas under tall and shady palm trees. <br><br>Country Club Heights attracts fulltime residents with its low taxes and custom homes in the hills. “Not many have a second home here,” Borja says. “Most come for the lake from places like Orange County, Perris and Temecula.” This community of winding avenues and quiet cul-de-sacs sprawls over grassy hillsides. Residents step outside and are treated to scenic views of sparkling Lake Elsinore. Single-family houses constitute most of the residential landscape of Country Club Heights, many with stucco exteriors and tile roofing. Ranch-styles and one to two-story custom homes tend to feature expansive yards, open floor plans and multi-car garages. Prices range from about $360,000 to $625,000.<br><br>Lake Elsinore offers a variety of community events throughout the year. Families gather downtown on Main Street for seasonal celebrations like Winterfest and Dia de Los Muertos Festival. Minor league baseball fans can catch the Lake Elsinore Storm play at the Diamond Stadium of Lake Elsinore. And the scenic hills and lake make for a popular skydiving location. <br><br>The one waterfront restaurant in the area is Jack’s BBQ Shack, where barbeque lovers can enjoy hearty portions out on the covered back porch. For casual Mexican cuisine, locals head to Juan’s Rotisserie Chicken. North Elsinore has plenty of stores like Target and Home Depot, and shoppers can find a variety of clothing retailers at the nearby Outlets at Lake Elsinore. The Outlets include stores like Gap Factory and Famous Footwear in an outdoor, pedestrian-friendly mall. Bordering Country Club Heights, regional grocery stores like Albertson’s and Stater Bros. Markets keep the area stocked with the essentials. <br><br>Students may attend Machado Elementary, rated C on Niche, Terra Cotta Middle, rated C and Lakeside High School, rated B-plus. The high school is rated one of the top ten most beautiful schools in California and is home to excellent athletic programs, including league championship-winning varsity soccer and swim teams.<br><br>Some homes are within walking and biking distance of groceries at Albertson’s and Stater Bros. Markets. Otherwise, getting around by car is straightforward thanks to proximity to major roadways. Route 74 (Riverside Drive) bisects the neighborhood, extending southwest into the Santa Ana Mountains. East of Country Club Heights, Interstate 15 stretches south toward Temecula and north toward Corona. <br><br>According to riskfactor.com, 99% of homes in Country Club Heights experience significant heat, fire and air quality risks. The National Fire Protection Association advises area homeowners to practice fire safety by choosing flame-resistant holiday decorations, testing smoke alarms and keeping lit candles away from flammable material.
Situated between the cities of Lake Elsinore and Canyon Lake is Tuscany Hills, a suburban hillside community with resort-style amenities. “This neighborhood draws homebuyers for the expansive views and great school system. Tuscany Hills also borders Canyon Lake, which is one of five gated cities in California,” says Realtor Kelly Bastman, broker/owner at Bastman Properties, Inc., with two decades' worth of industry experience. Interstate 15 runs through the Lake Elsinore area and travels through Riverside County, connecting residents to the southern city of Temecula and the northern cities of San Bernardino and Los Angeles. Tuscany Hills is also situated approximately 10 miles from the Santa Ana range’s Ortega mountains, which offer abundant hiking, camping and biking outdoor activities. Students are served by the Lake Elsinore Unified School District, which receives a B rating from Niche. <br><br>Single-family homes here are situated along residential streets that wind through hilly topography and are lined with towering, bright green palm trees. Developers primarily built properties in this area between the 1970s and early 21st century, favoring Spanish-inspired and Mediterranean-style architecture. “Single- and two-story homes with Mediterranean vibes adorn the hillside,” Bastman says. Terracotta roof tiles and stucco facades provide insulation from the arid desert climate, and many of these homes feature amenities such as solar panel roofing. Most residences also have paved driveways and attached garages, so street parking isn’t as common. Single-family homes tend to range in price between $600,000 and $800,000, although waterfront properties situated on Canyon Lake often cost upwards of $1 million. <br><br>Tuscany Hills Elementary is an A-minus-rated primary school located within the neighborhood that serves young learners from kindergarten to fifth grade. Students can then move on to other schools in the Lake Elsinore Unified School District, such as Canyon Lake Middle School and Elsinore Middle School, which are rated B-plus and B-minus, respectively. For a secondary institution, students might attend the B-plus-rated Elsinore High School, which was recognized as a “Model for Excellence” by Riverside County for its Special Education and Peer Counseling programs. Elsinore High School is also designated a California Distinguished School for its overarching academic achievements. <br><br>Members of the community can walk to Tuscany Hills Park, which is situated right next to Tuscany Hills Elementary School. This small neighborhood park has shaded playsets and ball fields that host school and recreation league games. Tuscany Hills is also home to Happy Camp Campground, a waterfront RV park along Canyon Lake that features boat docks and a roped-off swimming area. At the center of the development is the Tuscany Hills Association Clubhouse, where residents can cool off at an outdoor pool and meet up with friends to play a game of tennis or pickleball. Nearby Lake Elsinore also offers numerous outdoor recreation activities: “Mountain bike trails, a motocross track and skydiving are all popular Lake Elsinore activities. Recreational boating is also available on the lake,” Bastman says. <br><br>Many of the area’s popular events are hosted in the city of Lake Elsinore; during the summer, the city puts on a summer concert series called “Live at the Lakefront” that features music performances at Launch Pointe that are free to the public. “Tuscany Hills is also near the Lake Elsinore Storm minor league baseball team stadium,” Bastman says. The stadium is called the Lake Elsinore Diamond and can seat over 7,800 fans. Jet ski races and an annual fishing derby also take place on the waters of Lake Elsinore. <br><br>At Canyon Hills Marketplace, residents can shop at Stater Bros. Markets for weekly groceries. Situated along Interstate 15 is Lake Elsinore City Center, where shoppers browse Goodwill for a wide selection of second-hand apparel, shoes and furniture. “There are some really amazing restaurants on Main Street in Lake Elsinore: La Unica, Main Street Kitchen and Tap, and Stadium Pizza are all local favorites,” Bastman says. Early birds can snag a tasty treat and a hot coffee from Raised Donuts & Bagels, open at 4 a.m. and serving up specialty donuts and bagels. For some authentic Italian cuisine, diners can head to Vincenzo’s Olive Tree on Casino Drive to enjoy Sicilian-inspired fare.
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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.
