Neighborhood Spotlight: Laguna Woods, CA

Situated just east of Laguna Beach in South Orange County, Laguna Woods, California, is one of the premier active adult communities in the state. Nearly 90 percent of Laguna Woods is comprised of Laguna Woods Village, a private gated retirement community. Located just five miles from the Pacific Ocean and adjacent to the 7,000-acre Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and the 4,500-acre Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Laguna Woods offers great opportunities for those who are 55 years old and older.

Laguna Woods at a Glance

Laguna Woods occupies about three square miles of land and has a population of approximately 16,500 residents who are 55 years old and older. In recent years, Laguna Woods has attracted a large number of residents who are between the ages of 55 and 64, due to the active lifestyle that is promoted within the community. Laguna Woods began as the Leisure World retirement community in 1964 and was officially incorporated as a city in 1999.

Laguna Woods real estate

While the prices of homes in Laguna Woods are above the national average, they are quite affordable compared to other communities in Southern California. The median home price in Laguna Woods is approximately $343,000. Laguna Woods Village is comprised of 12,376 living units including condos, co-ops, and single-family residences. While Laguna Woods Village is the largest retirement community in Laguna Woods, it is not the only one. Other senior living communities in Laguna Woods include Las Palmas Senior Living Community, The Regency Senior Living Community, San Sebastian Apartments, The Towers at Laguna Woods Village, and Whispering Fountains at Laguna Woods. 

Laguna Woods history

Laguna Woods is located on land that was once part of the expansive Moulton Ranch. Before the 1960s this area was known for cattle grazing and dry farming and only had a few barns and ranch homes. In 1962, Ross Cortese, who developed Leisure World Seal Beach, bought a portion of Moulton Ranch to create a second Leisure World location. In 1964, Leisure World Laguna Hills opened. Residents began talking about incorporating many times between 1971 and 1996 when a commercial airport was proposed nearby and they faced a reduction in county services. As a result, Laguna Woods was officially incorporated as Orange County’s 32nd city in 1999.

Laguna Woods amenities

The number of Laguna Woods residents aged 55 to 64 has doubled in the last decade, and it’s easy to see why. The city is chock full of amenities for active, diverse, and tech-savvy seniors. Residents of Laguna Woods Village have access to two professional golf courses including a championship 27-hole golf course and a nine-hole, 3 par, executive course. There is also a driving range, practice putting green and chipping area. Take private or group lessons from one of three full-time golf professionals on staff, and stay stocked up on essentials at the pro shop.

Laguna Woods Village includes three fitness centers with state-of-the-art equipment and fitness instructors. There are ten beautiful walking trails as well as ten tennis courts, five of which are lighted for night play. The equestrian center allows boarding for residents with horses as well as a riding program for residents and their guests. The center also hosts events throughout the year such as Saddle Club barbecues and the Harvest Hoedown.

There are many educational opportunities at Laguna Woods Village. They offer a full roster of free classes for residents including laughter yoga, ballroom dancing, and Russian. They also offer academically rigorous classes through Saddleback College Emeritus Institute. There are also more than 250 social clubs, special interest groups, and organizations that offer residents fun and entertainment.

Residents of Laguna Woods can also enjoy many outdoor adventures. Woods End Wilderness Preserve is a 10.6-acre park located in the city that features trails and access to James Dilley Preserve and Barbara’s Lake. It’s operated as part of the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.

Explore Laguna Woods today

Do you want to see for yourself why so many seniors are choosing to live out their golden years in Laguna Woods? Then view available properties and schedule your private showing today!