Neighborhood Spotlight: Rancho Santa Fe

December 16, 2019

If you’re looking for the pinnacle of luxury and price is no object, then Rancho Santa Fe is the place for you. “The Ranch” features the most expensive homes in San Diego County and offers top-of-the-line amenities wrapped up in the rustic charm of the Southern California countryside. Some of the country’s most famous and influential people call this enclave home, and it’s easy to see why.

Rancho Santa Fe at a Glance

With a population of just over 3,000, Rancho Santa Fe oozes exclusivity and offers a peaceful retreat for today’s movers and shakers. As of 2018, Rancho Santa Fe ranks in the top 30 of the most expensive zip codes in America. Many celebrities have called this place home over the years, including Bing Crosby, Howard Hughes, Bill Gates, Janet Jackson, and Jenny Craig.

This is the land of large custom estates on huge, private lots that offer the charm of rural life while still being close to some of the busiest metropolitan areas in the country. It’s only six miles from the Pacific Ocean and 20 miles from downtown San Diego. If you want a relaxing place to enjoy horseback riding, golfing, hiking, nearby beach access and small-town life, then this is it.

Exclusive Neighborhoods with Luxury Amenities

Rancho Santa Fe is comprised of several smaller gated communities, the most notable of which is the Covenant. The Covenant is the oldest planned community in Rancho Santa Fe and was created in 1928 to preserve the landscape, character, and architectural quality of the area. It includes 45 miles of private hiking and horseback riding trails as well as the Rancho Riding Club. Other neighborhoods in Rancho Santa Fe include:

Custom Homes & Estates

The homes you’ll find in Rancho Santa Fe are nothing short of spectacular. It’s not uncommon for homes to be 5,000 square feet in size or more. Many have stunning views of the ocean and countryside. The most prevalent architectural style is Spanish Mediterranean, and you can easily find properties that will accommodate horses. You’ll soon discover that there are no mailboxes or sidewalks in residential areas of Rancho Santa Fe. Instead, residents pick up their mail at the local post office, which encourages a sense of community. The median sales price for homes in Rancho Santa Fe is just over $2 million.

Some of the Country’s Best Schools

Families with children will love Rancho Santa Fe because of their excellent school system. Nearly all the public schools that serve Rancho Santa Fe students have received an A+ Niche rating. Canyon Crest Academy, one of the high schools that Rancho Santa Fe students attend, is rated the #2 Best Public High School in California by Niche. There are also many private schools nearby, giving local families excellent schooling options depending on their needs.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Rancho Santa Fe has a fascinating history, and locals will find the Rancho Santa Fe Historical Society to be a treasure trove of information. The town’s history dates back more than 175 years when Juan Osuna received a land grant from the Mexican government. At the turn of the century, the land was purchased in order to grow eucalyptus trees to make railroad ties. Unfortunately, eucalyptus is too soft for this purpose, and a residential community for “gentleman farmers” was soon planned. Designs for the community were refined in 1922, and in 1928 the Rancho Santa Fe Association adopted the Protective Covenant. The rules of the Covenant are still strictly adhered to today and are responsible for the pleasing and consistent aesthetics of the community.

Wide Variety of Amenities

Despite being a small town, Rancho Santa Fe offers exceptional amenities and activities. The Village is the main commercial district that features upscale dining and boutiques. Be sure to check out The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe or Mille Fleurs for a delicious meal.

For those that enjoy golfing and country club life, there is no shortage of nationally renowned clubs to join, such as The Bridges and The Crosby. There are many equestrian facilities in town to ride and board horses, too, and you’ll find miles of trails to enjoy. And don’t forget to check out the nearby Del Mar Race Track, which not only hosts horse races, but also concerts, events, and the popular San Diego County Fair.

Explore Rancho Santa Fe Today

There is no denying that Rancho Santa Fe is one of the most exclusive and desirable communities in the United States, offering some of the country’s most luxurious homes and amenities. View available properties now and schedule your home showing today!