Discover El Dorado Hills
El Dorado Hills is a picturesque, master-planned community nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, just 40 minutes east of Sacramento. With a population of about 50,500, it’s known for its natural beauty, award-winning schools, upscale homes, and strong sense of community.
Homes & Property Values
The area offers a wide range of housing—from mid-century hillside homes to luxury estates with lake views. The median home value is around $930,000.
Modest mid-sized homes range from $677,000 to $800,000, while luxury estates in gated communities like Serrano can exceed $2 million.
Popular neighborhoods include:
- The Promontory, Villagio, and Saratoga Estates – featuring custom homes from 2,600 to 5,700 sq ft, many with pools, views, or golf course access.
- The Ponderosa and Manzanita at Saratoga Estates – starting in the high $900Ks, offering 3–5 bedroom homes with panoramic Sierra and valley vistas.
Trails & Outdoor Recreation
El Dorado Hills is an outdoor lover’s paradise.
- Trails: Over 500 acres of open space across 28 parks, with miles of paved and unpaved trails weaving through the rolling hills.
- Water Activities: Bordering Folsom Lake and the American River, enjoy boating, fishing, water skiing, and Brown’s Ravine Marina.
- Winter Sports: Tahoe ski resorts are only 90 minutes away—perfect for weekend getaways.
Shopping & Town Center
The heart of the community is El Dorado Hills Town Center. This stylish mixed-use district features:
- Boutique shops
- Upscale restaurants
- Seasonal farmer’s markets
- Community events like wine tastings and concerts
For larger retail needs, residents head to the Lake Forest shopping center or nearby Folsom, which offers big-box stores and outlets.
Top-Rated Schools
Families move here for the schools—and for good reason.
- Oak Ridge High School: Known for a graduation rate over 99%, high SAT scores, and robust AP offerings.
- Elementary & Middle Schools: Local schools consistently outperform state averages, and El Dorado Hills is often ranked among the best communities in California for families.
Local Wineries & Vineyards
El Dorado Hills is located in the El Dorado AVA, home to:
- 2,000+ acres of vineyards
- 50–60 boutique wineries
Popular varietals include Zinfandel, Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, and Rhône grapes like Viognier and Syrah. Many wineries are nestled in the nearby hills of Camino and Fair Play, perfect for weekend tastings.
Community & Lifestyle
Living in El Dorado Hills means enjoying both modern convenience and natural serenity.
- Safe, family-oriented neighborhoods with a strong community vibe
- Four distinct seasons—complete with golden hills and vibrant fall foliage
- Access to golf (like Serrano Country Club), lakeside fun, bike trails, and block parties
Things to keep in mind:
- Some neighborhoods have HOA or Mello-Roos fees
- Summer temperatures can reach the 90s
- Public transportation is limited—most residents rely on cars
Why It’s the Right Time to Move
El Dorado Hills is more than just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle. With:
- Strong property values
- Top-tier schools
- Scenic views and trails
- A thriving town center
- Proximity to wine country, lakes, and skiing
…it’s no wonder so many people are making the move.
Want a Custom Home Search?
Looking for something specific—like a starter home, gated community, or lake view? I can help you find the perfect fit. Just reach out and I’ll create a custom list based on your needs and budget.