Mesas and canyons set Rancho Penasquitos apart from the rest of the City of San Diego. Rancho Penasquitos homes, mostly built in the 1960s and 1970s, were created from a master plan that included park space and very little commercial space. These Rancho Penasquitos homes were built for the affluent middle class and have many comforts that encourage young middle class families. Landscaping is lush, roofs are tiled, power lines are underground, and indoor light is of plenty. Many residents have contributed creatively by elaborating their yards and recreation spaces. Many homes have great views of the hills and canyons and neighborhoods are quiet, with a country ambiance.

Local residents commuting out for work have a tough time in rush our to Downtown San Diego, which is up to 25 miles away. The construction of Highway 56 will offer, in 2005, easier access to the coast and Interstate 5, making commutes much easier to other areas of San Diego such as Carlsbad and Oceanside.

The Poway school district, representing Rancho Penasquitos schools, gets praised for its schience and technology programs, Mt. Carmel High’s music programs, and the ability for most of the schools in the district to receive merit awards for good programming. Because children under 18 make up close to 30% of the population, enthusiasm and interest in youth activities and education is high. A high concentration of children is appealing to young couples starting a family and seeking out the right community. The Ranacho Penasquitos Little League was gauged at one point to be the largest Little League in the country!

Because of a master plan, only 2% of Rancho Penasquitos real estate has been designated for commercial use. Small shopping centers provide foods and services for local residents. Heavier shopping can be done in nearby Mira Mesa and Carmel Mountain. On the south side of Rancho Penasquitos rests a large canyon, Black Mountain Regional Park, that houses several ‘pocket parks’ and encourages hiking and other outdoor activities. Black Mountain rises 1,500 in elevation and is the areas most prominent landmark. Every year the Spring Fiesta is celebrated.