$1,673,327Average Value$763Average Price per Sq Ft58Homes For Sale
Coastal adjacent, promising beach access and great schools
Established as a Spanish mission in 1776, San Juan Capistrano is a laid-back coastal city of about 35,000 with great schools and a historic downtown. This south Orange County community is around the midpoint between Los Angeles and San Diego, and it offers beach access without the coastal prices of nearby San Clemente and Laguna Beach. Temperate weather and year-round activities contribute to a vacation-like atmosphere. “San Juan Capistrano feels like stepping into a picturesque storybook with a modern twist. The city is known for its Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant seasonal events and dedication to preserving its history while providing contemporary conveniences,” says Director of Operations Benjamin Medina of the Chamber of Commerce. The city is a haven for those seeking a slower-paced, family-friendly environment with easy access to beaches, shopping and dining. "Every day I wake up in San Juan Capistrano, I feel like I won the lottery of life. It's beautiful, the weather is perfect, and we're all very blessed to be here," says Councilmember Howard Hart.
San Juan Capistrano showcases a diverse blend of homes, from historic adobes and charming cottages in Los Rios to luxurious estates in the hills and elegant Spanish-style villas reflecting the city’s rich heritage.
Watching the sun set over the Pacific at Capistrano Beach Park, you can stroll along the sandy shoreline, feel the ocean breeze, and enjoy a peaceful escape with breathtaking coastal views.
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The cliff swallows return each year for Saint Joseph's Day
The city has a robust calendar of seasonal events, such as Saint Joseph’s Day, which is held on March 19. For nearly a century, the day celebrates the return of the cliff swallows, Argentine birds that migrate north of the equator for the spring and summer. In conjunction with their return, the Fiesta de las Golondrinas is usually held on the third Saturday in March. “They shut down downtown for one of the largest nonmotorized parades in the U.S.,” Hart says. “We go all out for this one holiday that can draw over 50,000 from all over California. It’s a big party where a lot of adult beverages are consumed throughout the day, and the shops are all open.”
The Swallows Day Parade in San Juan Capistrano is an unforgettable celebration, where vibrant floats, lively music, and equestrian riders fill the streets with excitement, tradition, and community spirit.
The Festival of the Butterflies in San Juan Capistrano is a magical event where vibrant butterflies fill the air, lush gardens bloom, and families enjoy nature walks, hands-on activities, and live music with performers like The Salty Suites.
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Los Rios Historic District is the oldest neighborhood in the state
In early 2025, the median home price was around $1.6 million, nearly four times the national number and well above the broader California median of $900,000. Though expensive by any standards, housing prices in nearby San Clemente, Dana Point and Laguna Beach are even higher. There's also a large variety of housing styles in the area. “The city’s housing is diverse, from historic adobe homes to modern estates and equestrian properties,” Medina says. “Development is carefully planned to maintain the city’s character; we emphasize preserving open spaces and blending new builds with the surrounding environment.”
The Los Rios Historic District, the oldest neighborhood in California, has a charming atmosphere and is known for smaller, unique properties. Luxury areas like Marbella Country Club and Hunt Club are known for their contemporary homes and proximity to amenities like golf courses and equestrian facilities. Homes are priced between $800,000 for something small and vintage and upwards of $9 million for a hilltop estate home with a view. Though San Juan Capistrano is primarily single-family, there are clusters of condos and townhomes near the town center. Condos and townhomes are priced between $450,000 and $3 million.
Upscale Mediterranean-style homes can be found in gated communities like the Marbella Country Club, in San Juan Capistrano.
The smaller properties in the Los Rios Historic District exude charm with their rustic adobe walls, lush gardens, and inviting porches, creating a warm, storybook-like atmosphere in California’s oldest neighborhood.
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One of the best public school districts in Orange County
Schools in San Juan Capistrano are excellent and a draw to homebuyers with children. Capistrano Unified School District is graded A-plus by Niche. The district operates 64 schools and programs serving over 40,000 students regionally across multiple cities. “Capistrano Unified is recognized for its strong academic programs, dedicated teachers and extracurricular opportunities,” Medina says. “The district emphasizes STEM education, arts, and athletics, fostering well-rounded students.”
San Juan Hills High School in San Juan Capistrano serves 9-12 grade students.
Marco Forster Middle School's vision is to ensure achievement for all.
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Shopping, dining and cultural hotspots in historic Los Rios
The oldest neighborhood in the state, Los Rios is the heart of the San Juan Capistrano, known for its shopping, dining, and cultural hotspots, such as the Camino Real Playhouse and the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum. “Dining ranges from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, focusing on farm-to-table and international cuisine,” Medina says. “There is also a mix of boutique shops, antique stores and modern retail centers, like our new River Street Marketplace.” The city has everything it needs, but residents may travel to nearby Mission Viejo or San Clemente for more robust retail outlets or a classic mall experience.
River Street Marketplace in San Juan Capistrano is a vibrant new destination with unique boutiques, artisanal shops, and exciting restaurants, offering a lively atmosphere where shopping and dining meet charm.
San Juan Capistrano’s historic adobes, including the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum, showcase the city’s rich past with preserved architecture, artifacts, and stories that bring early California history to life.
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Over two dozen parks and recreation sites, plus beach access
Though not every resident in San Juan Capistrano is walkable to a community park, the city maintains over two dozen parks and recreation sites. Parks are a top priority for the city, and a minimum of five acres of parkland is required for every 1,000 people in new residential development. Los Rios Park is a community gem situated on four acres across from the railway and the historic downtown area. Residents are a short drive from the many hiking and biking trails that weave in and around the Santa Ana Mountains. “The San Juan Creek Trail and Caspers Wilderness Park, which is my personal favorite, offer everything from easy walks to challenging hikes while traversing through oak trees, running springs and wildlife,” Medina says. Though it doesn’t directly border the coast, the Pacific Ocean is just a few blocks away. “Doheny State Beach and Salt Creek Beach are popular among residents. The rest of the coast is just a short drive or train ride away, with perfect opportunities for surfing, picnics and relaxation,” Medina says.
Families enjoy going to Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano.
Families will enjoy a day at the beach at Salt Creek Beach Bluff Park.
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Direct access to Interstate 5 means traffic congestion at peak hours
San Juan Capistrano is about 50 miles south of Los Angeles and 60 miles north of San Diego. The city has direct access to Interstate 5, which cuts through north-to-south. “Traffic is generally manageable, but like many Southern California cities, it can get congested during peak hours, especially around the downtown area and near the 5,” Medina says. Though car noise can be an issue in some areas, the freeway is walled off from the city’s residential areas. Orange County Transit operates bus routes for those who rely on public transportation, and there is a Metrolink train station in town. “The city also has a network of trails and bike lanes, and efforts are ongoing to improve connectivity and encourage sustainable transportation,” Medina says. John Wayne Airport is the closest, about 20 miles north. The nearest major medical facilities are the Providence Mission Hospitals in nearby Mission Viejo and Laguna Beach.
Orange County Sheriff's Department and wildfire risk in the summer
The climate in San Juan Capistrano is Mediterranean, categorized by warm, arid summers and mild, wet winters. “The coastal breeze keeps the temperatures comfortable year-round. Some say neighboring San Clemente has the best climate in the world, but the swallows still choose to migrate to San Juan,” Medina says.
Due to its proximity to open natural spaces, most of San Juan Capistrano faces a moderate risk of wildfire, with pockets of very high risk on its perimeter. Drought conditions are common in the summer, and the area can experience air quality issues, particularly from wildfire smoke. “Mitigation efforts focus on water conservation and sustainable landscaping. What I can say is that our hydrants are full, pressurized and the Orange County Fire Authority is ready for anything,” Medina says.
The Orange County Sheriff's Department serves San Juan Capistrano, but crime rates for this specific area are not available. “The city collaborates with local law enforcement and community organizations to maintain a low crime rate, emphasizing neighborhood watch programs and proactive policing,” Medina says. “The same goes for the Chamber keeping business engaged with our law enforcement. We are very fortunate in this regard.”
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in San Juan Capistrano, CA sell after 43 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in San Juan Capistrano, CA over the last 12 months is $1,400,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Situated on an oversized corner lot with ample room for a pool and endless possibilities to create a resort-style outdoor retreat, this beautifully refreshed 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the ideal blend of comfort, style, and location. Thoughtfully designed for flexible living, one bedroom and one full bathroom are conveniently located on the main level, while the upstairs 5th bedroom can
Welcome home is what you'll say once you walk into this newly remodeled home. Light and bright with gorgeous views. Inviting porch and relaxing yard take advantage of the views. New Luxury Vinyl plank flooring throughout. Freshly painted inside and out with new baseboards and new window and door casings. All new Electrical wiring and recessed lighting throughout. New PEX pipes, All-new interior
Experience the pinnacle of Southern California elegance in this stunning, recently renovated estate located within the prestigious guard-gated community of Marbella Country Club. Set on a quiet cul-de-sac and positioned on an expansive lot of over 10,000 square feet, the home enjoys sweeping golf course views overlooking the 8th fairway. A soaring two-story entry and dramatic high-ceiling living
Impressive and secluded this Hunt Club secluded view home offers approximately 5,644 square feet of upgraded 'livable' living space with five bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms to include a bright custom downstairs office and spacious great room that wraps to a Newly Turfed side yard! With over an acre in property, this home offers privacy and an elegant timeless architectural design that
WALKSCORE 74!!!Imagine stepping outside your door and strolling or biking to the lively Downtown San Juan Capistrano historical district—where parks, restaurants, coffee shops, antique stores, the train depot, and notable OC landmarks create a vibrant, storybook setting you’ll never tire of exploring.This appealing THREE bedroom, one bath home has been completely remodeled and offers
Situated on an oversized corner lot with ample room for a pool and endless possibilities to create a resort-style outdoor retreat, this beautifully refreshed 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the ideal blend of comfort, style, and location. Thoughtfully designed for flexible living, one bedroom and one full bathroom are conveniently located on the main level, while the upstairs 5th bedroom can
Welcome home is what you'll say once you walk into this newly remodeled home. Light and bright with gorgeous views. Inviting porch and relaxing yard take advantage of the views. New Luxury Vinyl plank flooring throughout. Freshly painted inside and out with new baseboards and new window and door casings. All new Electrical wiring and recessed lighting throughout. New PEX pipes, All-new interior
This is a 2 acre residential parcel zoned RSF4. It can be subdivided to 9 lots that fit the current minimum lot size per the zoning. The property is hilly with some flat and buildable portions. It has all utilies on site and there is an existing 2000 sq ft home in poor condition. This is a potential coastal housing development in an area with high median home prices and in close proximity to the
A rare offering within the prestigious, guard-gated enclave of Connemara, this exceptional single-level estate blends refined design, modern upgrades, and breathtaking surroundings. Set on an expansive ~17,600 square foot private corner lot, the residence spans 3,056 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, capturing sweeping mountain and ocean views that define elevated Southern California
Discover the charm of Mesa Vista living in this lovingly maintained residence, where panoramic views and the iconic sound of Mission bells create a truly serene setting. Offering 2 bedrooms down plus a spacious loft (easily converted to a third bedroom) and 3 full bathrooms across approximately 1,763 square feet, this sun drenched home filled with natural light blends comfort, style, and
Nestled in the Gavilan 55+ neighborhood of Rienda, this thoughtfully designed home offers a bright, open living experience with a seamless blend of comfort, style, and flexibility. Natural light fills the interior, highlighting the open-concept layout and custom interior paint, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere from the moment you enter. The main living space flows effortlessly between the
Experience the pinnacle of Southern California elegance in this stunning, recently renovated estate located within the prestigious guard-gated community of Marbella Country Club. Set on a quiet cul-de-sac and positioned on an expansive lot of over 10,000 square feet, the home enjoys sweeping golf course views overlooking the 8th fairway. A soaring two-story entry and dramatic high-ceiling living
San Juan Capistrano meets Italy with this 1225-acre ranch and estate. If you ever dreamed of being a gentleman farmer living in the hills of Italy but didn't want to leave Southern California, you have found your place in the Tuscan sun. Lemon orchards and imported Italian olive trees share the contiguous lots with the Tuscan-inspired ~5,000 sq ft home. Additional residences are nicely sited to
Located atop a commanding hilltop promontory in historic San Juan Capistrano, Casa Grande at Coral Farms is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity encompassing 42.75 acres with sweeping 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, surrounding mountains, city lights, golf courses, and the San Juan Capistrano Mission. Rarely does a property of this scale, location, and entitlement flexibility become available
Welcome to The Masters—a beautifully remodeled, detached single-level home in the prestigious gated community of San Juan Hills. This exceptional 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence offers an open and airy layout, enhanced by high voluminous ceilings that create a sense of space and elegance throughout. The home’s prime location backs to the 13th tee of the San Juan Hills Golf Course, offering serene
Another masterpiece crafted by renowned architect Ernest Velarde, this exceptional residence is located in the prestigious Peppertree Bend community of San Juan Capistrano. Designed with a refined modern Japanese contemporary flair, the home features an open floor plan that effortlessly harmonizes indoor and outdoor living. Set on a full acre, the grounds are a true work of art. Owners were
BREATHTAKING VIEWS!!!! Perched on one of the most extraordinary ocean-view parcels in all of San Clemente, this remarkable property captures sweeping, unobstructed 180 panoramic vistas stretching from Palos Verdes to the southern coastline of San Clemente. Enjoy breathtaking views of the golden sands and glistening whitewater of Doheny Beach and Cottons Point, the picturesque Dana Point Harbor,
Discover Capistrano Pointe, a contemporary Mediterranean-style community of apartment homes in San Juan Capistrano. Choose a new home from our tastefully designed one and two bedroom apartments, lofts, and townhomes. Enjoy the comforts of dual master suites, a fully equipped kitchen with new countertops and cabinetry, new flooring, a wood-burning fireplace, and in-home washers and dryers.
Beautiful Single Level Home in Village San Juan. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with attached 2 car garage boasts ceramic tile throughout, updated kitchen cabinets with granite counter tops, gas stove, over range microwave and dishwasher. Also comes with central air conditioning and heating. Enjoy the spacious backyard with drought tolerant lawn. Village San Juan offers wonderful amenities
Outstanding opportunity for a super "upper floor" 1-bedroom condominium in the most desirable community of Casitas De Alipaz!! This extremely spacious 1 bedroom unit has vaulted ceilings, newer interior doors and hardware, interior paint and carpet just approximately 12 months old, LED lighting throughout, newer window blinds, a totally remodeled Master bathroom inclusive of double vanities, new
For Lease – Available June 1This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is located in the highly sought-after Harbor Lane neighborhood of San Juan Capistrano.Enjoy the best of both worlds—just minutes from charming downtown San Juan Capistrano and the vibrant River Street Marketplace, while only 3 miles from the coast in Dana Point. With direct access to the San Juan Creek
Welcome to this beautifully built, brand-new ADU in the heart of downtown San Juan Capistrano, offering the perfect blend of modern design and everyday functionality. Thoughtfully constructed with quality finishes throughout, this light-filled home features an open-concept layout with vaulted ceilings upon entry, exposed wood beam accents, and wide luxury plank vinyl flooring that creates a warm
LIVE THE COASTAL DREAM. GATED MISSION-STYLE HOME, BIKE TO BEACH AND HARBORSpacious. Private. Perfectly located. Private Room Rental.This large home in San Juan Capistrano offers a rare chance to enjoy classic architecture with an unbeatable coastal lifestyle. Bike to Doheny State Beach and Dana Point Harbor, explore historic downtown San Juan Capistrano, and enjoy easy
This exquisite, beautifully remodeled home is available for lease fully furnished, with short-term rental options available, offering a true turnkey luxury living experience. Located in the prestigious gated community of Pacifica San Juan, this elegant two-story residence offers 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, a spacious bonus room, and a 3-car garage.The formal living and dining areas showcase
Welcome to your new home in the heart of Laguna Niguel! This charming property offers an ideal location, surrounded by a variety of excellent restaurants and convenient department stores, making everyday errands and dining out a breeze.Key features of this property include spacious bedrooms and well-appointed bathrooms, perfect for comfortable living. The floor plan is thoughtfully
GREAT 3 BEDROOM 2 BATH NICELY UPGRADED HOME WALKING DISTANCE TO THE BEACH. THE HOME HAS A VERY NICE OPEN FLOOR PLAN WITH UPGRADED COUNTERTOPS AND FLOORING, ALSO A NICE YARD FOR ENTERTAINING. THE HOMES COMES WITH A 2 CAR ATTACHED GARAGE WITH A FULL-SIZE DRIVEWAY. AND IT IS LOCATED CLOSE TO SHOPPING, SCHOOLS AND RESTURANTS. THIS HOME WILL NOT LAST LONG!!!
In southern Orange County, San Juan Hills comprises a series of private residential communities that surround the state-of-the-art San Juan Hills Golf Club. As a suburb of San Juan Capistrano, the community offers access to both urban and natural amenities. “This neighborhood, surrounded by hills, makes you feel like you’re out in the country,” says Doug Robinett, a local Realtor with First Team Real Estate. “It’s so quiet, yet it’s five minutes from restaurants and activities.” The San Juan Hills Golf Club sits at the center of the neighborhood and features an 18-hole course, the San Juan Hills Sports Bar & Grill and a driving range. “We support the surrounding community whenever possible, and we were recently voted the Best Golf Course in Orange County by readers of the OC Register,” says Ryan Brown, the General Manager of the San Juan Hills Golf Club.
This neighborhood is home to several private subdivisions, all of which are gated and situated around San Juan Hills Golf Club. The five largest communities here include Mesa Vista, Loma Vista, San Juan Hills, San Juan Hills West and San Juan Hills East. Notably, both the San Juan Hills West and East subdivisions are 55-plus only. Single-family homes, condo units and townhomes throughout the entire neighborhood offer similar architectural styles, including a mix of Mediterranean and Spanish-inspired dwellings, as well as a handful of New Traditional properties. Condo units and townhomes in San Juan Hills tend to range between $900,000 and $1.2 million, while most single-family homes sell between $800,000 and $2.5 million. In the neighborhood’s two 55-plus subdivisions, residents can also expect $375 per month in HOA fees.
Adjacent to San Juan Hills is a series of rolling hills that feature numerous hiking trail options, including the Flag Hill and Patriot Trail, which is also referred to as the Flagpole Hike. Residents here often use these trails for biking and horseback riding; Robinett notes that the area’s topography makes it an appealing equestrian town. Several farms and stables can be found in and around the neighborhood, most of which offer boarding and various equine-related amenities. Rancho Mission Viejo Horse Park and 5M Ranch are two popular equestrian training facilities situated just outside the neighborhood. San Juan Hills is also home to San Juan Creek Park, an outdoor recreation spot featuring shaded playground areas, picnic tables and walking paths.
The San Juan Hills Golf Club offers a variety of events throughout the year, including live music performances on the weekends and golfing tournaments. The club is also known to host holiday celebrations, wine tastings and themed golfing days. Outside the golf club, residents can also enjoy events put together by the city of San Juan Capistrano. In the summertime, the city hosts San Juan Summer Nites, a series of free live music events at Historic Town Center Park every third Wednesday from June through September.
Less than a mile away from San Juan Hills is the San Juan Capistrano downtown area, which offers plenty of local shopping and dining options. Robinett recommends visiting Los Rios Street. “It’s the oldest street in town with charming shops and several nice restaurants.” Some of the popular spots along Los Rios Street include Ramos House Café and The Tea House on Los Rios, an eclectic restaurant characterized by floral decorations and bright pastel colors. “Trevor’s at the Tracks and Swallow’s Inn are great places, too,” Robinett says. The downtown area is also home to the Mission San Juan Capistrano, a historic landmark and chapel built in the 18th century that now includes a museum and outdoor garden area. Mission San Juan Capistrano attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year and has been dubbed the “Jewel of the California Missions.” Along Del Obispo Street is the Plaza Del Obispo Shopping Center, which features a Target, a Marshalls department store and several chain eateries.
Students in this neighborhood are served by the Capistrano Unified School District, which receives an overall A-plus rating from Niche. Young learners in kindergarten through fifth grade can attend Harold Ambuehl Elementary School, an A-minus-rated institution, while students in grades six through eight might head to Marco Foster Middle School, also rated A-minus. San Juan Hills High School receives an A-plus rating and offers students Advanced Placement courses and honors classes. St. Margaret’s Episcopal School is a private and co-ed college preparatory school that receives an A-plus rating and was named the No. 1 Christian high school in the Los Angeles area by Niche in 2024. “St. Margaret’s is a big draw for the area in itself,” Robinett says. “I’ve sold a lot of houses here because kids were accepted to the school.”
Commuters in San Juan Hills have convenient access to Interstate 5, a major thoroughfare that runs through San Juan Capistrano and travels the entire length of the West Coast. Approximately 1 mile outside the neighborhood is the San Juan Capistrano transit station, where locals can access two Metrolink commuter rail lines and Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner train, which offers daily service between San Diego and Los Angeles. In the downtown San Juan Capistrano area, the Orange County Transportation Authority offers bus service along Route 91, which stretches from Laguna Hills to San Clemente. San Juan Hills has an overall CAP Index score of 2, which is lower than the national average of 4.
Property Mix - Square Feet
San Juan Capistrano Has More Owners
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
21
Median Rent
$7,000
Median Single Family Home Rent
$5,500
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$7,900
Median Townhouse Rent
$4,500
Median 2 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$3,250
Median Condo Rent
$4,250
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$3,995
Demographics
Total Population
34,465
Median Age
44
Population Density
45 ppl/acre
Population under 18
22.7%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
23.5%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$116,697
Significantly above the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$145,180
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
84.8%
On par with the national average
89%
College Graduates
39.3%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
16.1%
% Population in Labor Force
65.8%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
12''
Average Winter Low Temperature
44°F
Average Summer High Temperature
80°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Moderately friendly
Bike Score®®
60/ 100
Fairly friendly
Walk Score®®
40/ 100
Somewhat friendly
Transit Score®®
20/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
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.
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.
