RSM was once part of Rancho Mission Viejo, a sprawling cattle ranch established during the Mexican land grant era in the 19th century. Development began in the late 1980s, creating a cohesive, family-friendly community. In 2000, the city formally incorporated, bringing together neighborhoods like Rancho Cielo, Walden, Robinson Ranch, and Dove Canyon.
The community offers a mix of housing options, from charming condos and townhomes to spacious single-family residences. Architectural styles range from Mediterranean and Tuscan-inspired to modern designs. Many neighborhoods feature gated communities, with homes offering stunning mountain or lake views.
RSM is served by highly rated schools within the Saddleback Valley Unified and Capistrano Unified School Districts. Blue Ribbon schools and private institutions, such as Santa Margarita Catholic High School, enhance its appeal for families seeking top-tier education. The schools foster a strong sense of community and offer a variety of academic and extracurricular programs.
Lago Santa Margarita: The centerpiece of the community, this 11.5-acre lake provides scenic views, paddle boating, and a gathering spot for special events like the Star-Spangled Spectacular on the Fourth of July and the annual Fishing Derby.
Community Parks: Maintained by homeowners’ associations and/or the city, these parks enhance the charm and accessibility of neighborhood living. Central Park offers a playground and zero-depth splash pad. The lake features the Beach Club and Lagoon, volleyball, and strolling walks. Canada Vista Park includes a Dog Park and Skate Park, popular destinations for families and pet owners. SAMLARC Parks can be found here: https://samlarc.org/assets/documents/SAMLARCCommunityMap.pdf
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City-Sponsored Events: Patriots Day, Veterans Day, New Year’s Eve celebrations, and Summer Concerts in Central Park provide year-round entertainment. Families gather for Sunday evening concerts with stunning sunsets as a backdrop.
SAMLARC Events: Organized by the Santa Margarita Landscape and Recreation Corporation, events like children’s and adult gardening workshops, Screen on the Green (movies), music at the lake, and the Star-Spangled Spectacular foster community engagement.
The city enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with sunny, warm summers and cool, rainy winters. Average temperatures range from the mid-40s in winter to the high-80s in summer, making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round.
Rancho Santa Margarita Central
The heart of RSM is anchored by the Town Center, Lago Santa Margarita, Central Park, and the city library. Residents here benefit from proximity to shopping, dining, and community events. This area is part of SAMLARC, granting residents access to pools, parks, and scenic trails. It’s a lively and vibrant part of the city that epitomizes suburban convenience.
Melinda Heights
Located in northwest RSM, Melinda Heights is celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere and Melinda Heights Elementary School, one of the area’s top-rated schools. The neighborhood features parks like Altisima Park, complete with a pool, tennis courts, pickleball courts basketball court and sports fields. During the holidays, the neighborhood transforms into a festive wonderland on "Candy Cane Lane."
Tijeras Creek Area
This community is built around the stunning Tijeras Creek Golf Course. Housing options range from condos to single-family homes, many offering golf course views and views of the Saddleback Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts love the proximity to O’Neill Regional Park.
Rancho Cielo
Incorporated into RSM in 2000, Rancho Cielo is a gated community offering breathtaking views of the Saddleback Mountains and surrounding valleys. With larger lots and a private, tranquil atmosphere, it’s perfect for families or those seeking a more spacious lifestyle. Community amenities include a pool, tennis courts, and basketball courts, along with easy access to hiking trails and outdoor recreation.
Walden
Also incorporated into RSM in 2000, Walden is a charming gated neighborhood known for its private fishing lake and serene atmosphere. Residents enjoy amenities like a community pool and park, as well as access to nearby hiking trails in the Cleveland National Forest. Homes in Walden are often custom or semi-custom, featuring spacious designs and mountain views. Residents enjoy amenities like a community pool and park, as well as access to nearby hiking trails.
Robinson Ranch
Robinson Ranch, incorporated into RSM in 2000, offers peaceful living with wide streets and larger lots. Many homes here provide stunning valley and ocean views on clear days. The neighborhood includes amenities like tennis courts, pools, and playgrounds. Robinson Ranch is also close to the Cleveland National Forest, giving residents convenient access to hiking trails and outdoor activities. Families benefit from the highly-rated Robinson Elementary School located within the community.
Dove Canyon
Dove Canyon is a luxury guard-gated community, incorporated into RSM in 2000, featuring the only private Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course in Orange County. The Dove Canyon Country Club offers a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired clubhouse, dining, fitness facilities, and event spaces. Beyond golf, residents enjoy a junior Olympic-sized pool, tennis courts, sport parks, and access to miles of hiking trails along the Cleveland National Forest. Its privacy, resort-style living, and upscale homes make it one of RSM’s most prestigious neighborhoods.
Rancho Santa Margarita offers the perfect blend of suburban living, excellent schools, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re seeking a vibrant lifestyle with access to nature or a family-friendly environment, RSM is a place where you can truly feel at home.
48,190 people live in Rancho Santa Margarita, where the median age is 39.7 and the average individual income is $55,965. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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There's plenty to do around Rancho Santa Margarita, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Crossfit Reform, Fight Quest, and Beth Lapenta Hairstyles.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
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| Active | 0.66 miles | 66 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 0.12 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.74 miles | 16 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Rancho Santa Margarita has 16,825 households, with an average household size of 2.86. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Rancho Santa Margarita do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 48,190 people call Rancho Santa Margarita home. The population density is 3,727.58 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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