Orange County is home to some of the country’s most exclusive and expensive gated communities, nestled behind manicured landscapes. These communities offer luxurious living with multi-million dollar homes, top-notch amenities like golf courses, and strict membership requirements. Here, the rich and famous can find privacy, security, and opulent comfort right in the heart of Southern California. Connect with Orange County CA real estate agent Ariana Gaffoglio to help you secure the most exclusive and expensive gated communities in Orange County.
Newport Coast
This master-planned community spans over 9,000 acres and contains around 4,000 homes. Home prices in Newport Coast typically start at $2 million and can go upwards of $20 million for oceanfront estates. The community offers two private clubhouses, golf, tennis courts, pools, parks, and trails with ocean views. Residents enjoy a very personal and secluded lifestyle with 24/7 guarded security.
Coto de Caza
Coto de Caza is another highly coveted guard-gated community in southern Orange County. The sprawling 4500-acre community contains around 4,000 homes with prices ranging from $1 million to over $10 million. Coto de Caza features two large clubhouses, spas, fitness centers, and recreational amenities. The community also has its local security force patrolling at all times.
Shady Canyon
Shady Canyon in Irvine is one of the most expensive communities in California. Typical home prices start at $5 million in this ultra-exclusive neighborhood in the Santa Ana Mountains. Shady Canyon contains custom-built mega mansions situated on large lots. The community offers a Tom Fazio-designed golf course, clubhouses, and 24-hour security checkpoints.
Pelican Hill
Pelican Hill in Newport Coast offers luxurious condominiums and custom homes around a Five-Star resort and spa. The grounds contain 128 villas, and the acclaimed Resort at Pelican Hill includes bungalows, restaurants, and a spa. Condo prices start at around $2 million, and homes go up to $50 million on Pelican Hill. The community shares amenities with the nearby Newport Coast.
Homes for sale in Orange County
The housing market in Orange County, California, continues to see high demand with limited inventory. Median home prices remain over $980,000 in many cities like Irvine and Newport Beach. Most homes for sale are single-family residences in suburban neighborhoods, though condominiums and townhomes are also available, often at lower prices. Despite rising mortgage rates, the Orange County real estate market continues to draw buyers due to the area’s desirability, job opportunities, good schools, and sunny weather. However, the limited supply is driving bidding wars on many listings.
Luxury homes in Orange County
Orange County is known for its luxurious real estate, especially in coastal cities like Laguna Beach. Multimillion-dollar mansions with sweeping ocean views are common in gated communities overlooking the Pacific. These lavish homes often have over 10,000 square feet of living space, with features like home theaters, wine cellars, infinity pools, and private docks. The use of high-end materials like marble and hardwood is prevalent. Orange County, known for its Mediterranean climate and beach proximity, is desirable for the wealthy to own luxurious properties and enjoy a glamorous SoCal lifestyle.