$1,004,401Average Value$654Average Price per Sq Ft93Homes 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
Rachel Nussbaum,
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 39 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 $935,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
ADORABLE RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA CONDO WITH INCREDIBLE POTENTIAL! This 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home is an investor’s dream or the perfect opportunity for a buyer ready to update and personalize it with their own style. A charming double-door entry welcomes you into a bright, open interior featuring vaulted ceilings and an abundance of windows that fill the home with natural light. The functional floor
Welcome to 19 Paulownia — a beautiful home in the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita. Nestled just moments from the shimmering Lago Santa Margarita, this warm and inviting 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence offers 1,839 square feet of thoughtfully updated living space on a generous 4,500 square foot lot. Lovingly maintained, this home is move-in ready and filled with natural light throughout. Step inside
Welcome to this beautifully designed 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home offering approximately 4,307 square feet — one of the best values for this much space in South Orange County. Set on a quiet cul-de-sac near award-winning schools, with tasteful upgrades and an expansive floor plan, this home delivers the space, comfort, and lifestyle buyers are looking for, all without compromise.Custom iron
Completely Reimagined | Rancho Santa Margarita Gem on a Quiet Cul-de-SacWelcome to this stunningly renovated 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home tucked away on a peaceful cul-de-sac in one of South Orange County's most beloved communities. From the moment you step inside, it's clear — this home has been transformed from top to bottom with thoughtful, high-quality upgrades that feel fresh, modern, and
ADORABLE RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA CONDO WITH INCREDIBLE POTENTIAL! This 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home is an investor’s dream or the perfect opportunity for a buyer ready to update and personalize it with their own style. A charming double-door entry welcomes you into a bright, open interior featuring vaulted ceilings and an abundance of windows that fill the home with natural light. The functional floor
Welcome to this beautifully updated home nestled at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the prestigious guard-gated community of Rancho Cielo. Offering 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, this move-in ready residence combines tasteful upgrades, a functional floor plan, and an exceptional location within one of the area's most desirable neighborhoods. The remodeled kitchen is the heart of the home,
Welcome to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home nestled in the highly sought-after Villavante community of Rancho Santa Margarita. Thoughtfully remodeled with a light and airy contemporary design, this turnkey residence offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality. Step inside to soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, wide-plank flooring, and an inviting
Discover this beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom lower-level condo located in the highly desirable city of Rancho Santa Margarita. Offering privacy, comfort, and convenience, this private end-unit home features two patios, an attached 1-car garage with direct interior access, and one dedicated carport space. Inside, you’ll find a bright and open floor plan with afternoon natural light, plantation
Welcome to 19 Paulownia — a beautiful home in the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita. Nestled just moments from the shimmering Lago Santa Margarita, this warm and inviting 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence offers 1,839 square feet of thoughtfully updated living space on a generous 4,500 square foot lot. Lovingly maintained, this home is move-in ready and filled with natural light throughout. Step inside
Welcome to this beautifully appointed corner-unit residence in the highly sought-after Tesoro Trails community of Rancho Santa Margarita. Built in 2013, this spacious two-story home offers approximately 1,916 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, featuring four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and an ideal floorplan for modern living. Positioned as a true end-unit with only one shared
Melinda Heights, Rancho Santa Margarita At Its Best! Review the attached supplements for the full list of upgrades & Watch the 3D tour to see it all come together before you even walk in the door. This is the ONE! A rare, expansive wrap-around private patio - your own outdoor sanctuary framed by a brick-and-stone planter wall, with a separate gated entrance to the backyard. Room to lounge,
Welcome to this beautifully designed 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home offering approximately 4,307 square feet — one of the best values for this much space in South Orange County. Set on a quiet cul-de-sac near award-winning schools, with tasteful upgrades and an expansive floor plan, this home delivers the space, comfort, and lifestyle buyers are looking for, all without compromise.Custom iron
New and improved pricing, priced to sell. Ask about assumable loan feature! 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 carpet, fresh
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom Dove Canyon residence offering approximately 2,592 square feet of thoughtfully updated living space on a generous 6,500+ square foot lot. From the moment you arrive, you'll appreciate the pride of ownership and attention to detail throughout. The recently remodeled interior features custom cabinetry, stunning quartz countertops,
Discover this charming one-bedroom, one-bathroom lower unit condo in the highly sought-after Belflora and SAMLARC community. As you approach the home, you're welcomed by a spacious covered patio—an ideal spot for outdoor dining, weekend barbecues, or simply relaxing with a good book. As you walk into the unit, you will encounter a spacious living room that opens to a comfortable dining area and
Completely Reimagined | Rancho Santa Margarita Gem on a Quiet Cul-de-SacWelcome to this stunningly renovated 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home tucked away on a peaceful cul-de-sac in one of South Orange County's most beloved communities. From the moment you step inside, it's clear — this home has been transformed from top to bottom with thoughtful, high-quality upgrades that feel fresh, modern, and
Available August 19th, 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
Candice Blair
Niguel Point Properties
(949) 868-7450
$2,793 - $3,838 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
Available August 17th, 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
Nestled in the scenic heart of Rancho Santa Margarita, Villas Antonio Apartment Homes offers a refined approach to suburban living. Here, timeless design meets everyday comfort to create a space that feels both elevated and inviting. Our one- and two-bedroom apartment homes are designed with modern finishes and warm touches that make every day feel like home. Step outside and enjoy a collection
We offer Self-Guided Tours by Appointment Only. Situated at the foothills of the Saddleback mountains in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, Cortesia at Rancho Santa Margarita apartments offer spacious homes with easy access to exciting outdoor activities. Our one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes offer ample living space and features you’ll love coming home to including large closets and an
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
Elevate your lifestyle in the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita, where breathtaking mountain views and thoughtful amenities create a truly inspired living experience. At Villas Aliento, you'll enjoy access to two resort-style swimming pools and spas, a modern fitness center, and beautifully landscaped grounds designed for relaxation and connection. Our studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartment homes
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
At Villa La Paz Apartment Homes in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, everyday living feels effortless. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Saddleback Mountains, our community offers a peaceful retreat with all the conveniences of Southern California living. Whether you're relaxing at the resident clubhouse, lounging by the resort-style pool, or unwinding in the spa, there are plenty of ways to
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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