Rancho Santa Fe’s property median price has reached over $2.2 Million, making it one of the wealthiest communities in the nation. Referred to as “the Ranch,” this community was founded in the ‘30s for the wealthiest of city residents. A small town resides among the estate-painted hills, with everything necessary for families to enjoy local amenities. Shops, restaurants, a resort, post office, library, community center, and two public schools help keep this town’s original size and scale.

Rancho Santa Fe Golf ClubRancho Santa Fe real estate is precious not only for the grand and spacious homes that cover rolling hills, but for the grounds that surround each property which are usually an acre or more; this is something very rare in San Diego. Privacy for residents is not an issue. Open fields, grazing horses and orange groves roll over the intricate lands. Homes are styled in traditional Tudor, country French and Spanish Mediterranean plans. The views are not of the ocean but to the hills facing east instead. Ocean breezes carry through the back country land.

The low-humidity, balmy climate is ideal for the relaxed outdoor life for which “the Ranch” is known.

The 14th hole Fairbanks Ranch Country ClubFairbanks Ranch is an exclusive gated enclave named after Hollywood actor Douglas Fairbanks who used to live there. Amenities include a lakeside club house, tennis courts, 40 acres of open space, fenced horse trails, an equestrian center, two lakes, walking trails and picnic spots. There are a number of exclusive gated communities worthy of mention including The Bridges, Cielo, and Rancho Santa Fe Farms.

The Rancho Santa Fe Association founded in 1927 ensures the preservation of the rural character of the Rancho Santa Fe Covenant area and its natural landscape of approx. 6,200 acres. The Association also operates and maintains the golf course, tennis club, playing fields, and riding and hiking trails for the benefit of its members. These are some of the luxury amenities this upscale community offers. Sidewalks and street lights are banned from residential areas.

Schools score at the top of the county and are well equipped for sports and the like. The local community group called Cap and Gown Society raises over $300,000 each year to contribute to the school’s classes and amenities, including saving music and arts programs that threatened to be cancelled. This is a very healthy open space to raise children.