$997,854Average Value$659Average Price per Sq Ft74Homes 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
Braxton Chea
Photography Contributed By
Ling Ge
Video By
Bob Yukich
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Phillip Schaefer,
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.
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 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA over the last 12 months is $940,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Stunning light and bright Ground-level condo with expansive windows and a flowing open-concept design. Upgraded throughout with elegant built-ins,Recessed lighting, upgraded bathrooms, and a designer fireplace. A private, oversized patio overlooks a lush park, offering tranquil views and a serene, quiet atmosphere. This beautiful home includes 3 parking spaces: one detached garage, one
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,
Coming Soon! Welcome to 21471 Birdhollow Drive in the desirable Trabuco Highlands community in Robinson Ranch. Ideally situated near the end of a quiet, single loaded cul-de-sac, this home features a versatile layout with 4 bedrooms upstairs and a downstairs bedroom currently used as an office. Set on a large, private and elevated view lot, the turnkey property offers beautiful surroundings and
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
Stunning light and bright Ground-level condo with expansive windows and a flowing open-concept design. Upgraded throughout with elegant built-ins,Recessed lighting, upgraded bathrooms, and a designer fireplace. A private, oversized patio overlooks a lush park, offering tranquil views and a serene, quiet atmosphere. This beautiful home includes 3 parking spaces: one detached garage, one
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,
Coming Soon! Welcome to 21471 Birdhollow Drive in the desirable Trabuco Highlands community in Robinson Ranch. Ideally situated near the end of a quiet, single loaded cul-de-sac, this home features a versatile layout with 4 bedrooms upstairs and a downstairs bedroom currently used as an office. Set on a large, private and elevated view lot, the turnkey property offers beautiful surroundings and
2 Bedrooms Plus a Loft! A beautifully maintained, private carriage end-unit offering a rare blend of natural light, privacy, and functional space. This move-in-ready residence features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a loft, and a spacious 2-car attached garage with direct access. Enter through your private entry and climb to your single-level living area, where vaulted ceilings, abundant light, wood
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
Back on the market. Majestic panoramic views of the Saddleback Mountains, rolling hills, sparkling lake/reservoir, and dazzling city lights make this truly a one-of-a-kind home. Perched at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac on one of the premier lots (approximately 9,000 sq. ft.) in the prestigious 24-hour guard-gated community of Dove Canyon in South Orange County, the views are so profound you
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
Welcome to this beautifully upgraded home located in the desirable Hidden Trails community of Rancho Santa Margarita. This inviting residence offers 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a 2-car attached garage, combining comfort, style, and functionality. The home features a thoughtfully updated interior, including a modern kitchen with granite countertops, a center island, and stainless steel
Price Improvement, Welcome to 20 Carmesi, a highly upgraded and beautifully maintained upper-level condo located in one of the most desirable areas of Rancho Santa Margarita. This spacious residence offers 2 large bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, combining comfort, functionality, and thoughtful upgrades throughout.The recently remodeled kitchen is a true highlight, featuring beautiful granite
NEWLY LOWED AND ATTRACTIVE PRICING, SELLER MUST SELL , EXTREMELY MOTIVATED. TO A must see! Beautiful mountain side view located just minutes away from Lago Santa Margarita Beach Club. Quite location. Newly updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo located in the desirable Los Portillos community. This unit features a private balcony, upgraded kitchen with soft-close cabinets, stove and refrigerator, new
Welcome to this HIGH DESIRABLE FIVE BEDROOM Robinson Ranch traditional residence showcasing exceptional potential in one of Trabuco Canyon’s most coveted neighborhoods! Prime location on a quiet street. Experience the BEST of South Orange County living in this beautifully upgraded home, ideally situated in a peaceful community with access to top-rated Saddleback Valley schools, parks, pools, and
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
Available NOW! Discover the ultimate lifestyle in this pristine 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home in the highly sought-after community of Rancho Santa Margarita. This residence has been beautifully refreshed with a crisp palette of new interior paint and plush, brand-new carpeting up the stairs and throughout the second floor. The wonderful living areas in the home include a front living room with a
Available May 1st, 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
Welcome home to 13 Via Cresta, situated in the Las Flores community which is centrally located within Rancho Santa Margarita. This warm and inviting home boasts 2 generously sized bedrooms with 1 nicely upgraded bathroom. The thoughtfully designed floor plan features a considerably sized kitchen that offers a brand new stove/oven, recessed lighting with plenty of cabinet and counter space. The
Daniel FinderInnovate Realty, Inc.
$2,563 - $3,596 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
Discover this highly desirable Upper Corner End Unit beautifully blends comfort and style, this bright and airy home offers 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an open-concept floor plan perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. Newer carpet and luxury vinyl flooring flows through the spacious kitchen, living and dining areas, while two private balconies invite you to take in serene greenbelt
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
Beautifully upgraded one-bedroom, one-bath condo in the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita. This inviting home features granite countertops, updated cabinetry in both the kitchen and bathroom, rich dark laminate flooring, and a bright, open living area with a cozy fireplace. The living room flows seamlessly into the dining area and kitchen, creating a comfortable and functional layout. Enjoy morning
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
Welcome to your dream home in the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita! This charming end unit boasts an exceptional location within the tract, offering convenience and serenity. Step into a fully remodeled kitchen featuring stunning white shaker style cabinetry, complete with soft-close drawers and a convenient Lazy Susan. Enjoy the luxury of all-new stainless steel appliances, complemented by
The Highlands, a distinctive apartment community in Rancho Santa Margarita, sits among the rolling hills of Trabuco Canyon. Choose your new home from our elegant, newly renovated one and two bedroom apartments, lofts, and townhomes. The open-concept apartment homes feature vaulted ceilings, central heating and A/C, designer countertops, wood-burning fireplaces, oversized tubs, spacious walk-in
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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