Where to Live in El Dorado Hills, California: A Comprehensive Guide to 53 Unique Villages

After living here for decades, I've got the scoop on all 53 villages in El Dorado Hills. Yeah, you heard that right—53! It's wild, isn't it?

Now, if you're thinking about moving to and living in El Dorado Hills or just want to explore your options within the area, you're in for a treat. I'll break down El Dorado Hills neighborhoods in a way that will make your decision-making process a breeze. So, let's dive in!

Why El Dorado Hills?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of each village, let's discuss why El Dorado Hills is such a hot spot. Niche and other reputable sources consistently rank it as the #1 place to live in El Dorado County. 

Entry-Level Villages: Affordable Living in El Dorado Hills

Let's start with some of the more budget-friendly options in El Dorado Hills. These neighborhoods offer a great entry point for those looking to join our awesome community without breaking the bank.

St. Andrews Village, Fairchild Village, Governor's West, and Stonegate

• Entry-level homes starting at $680,000
• Older homes, some remodeled
• Great for first-time buyers or those looking for a project

Hills of El Dorado: The Hidden Gem

Here's a little secret for you – Hills of El Dorado is a hidden gem that not many people know about.

• Entry-level homes under $650,000
• Smaller, cozy neighborhood
• Perfect for those who want a quieter lifestyle

Established Villages with Character

Next up, we've got some villages that have been around for a while but still offer great value and charm.

Stonebriar: Space Without the HOA

• Large homes at a lower cost per square foot
• No HOA (perfect for those who like to do their own thing)
• Community park for family fun

Promontory: Community-Focused Living

• Great community with a special park
• Lake Forest Elementary School with unique classroom designs
• Perfect for families who love to socialize

Ridgeview: Luxury with a Twist

• One of the original luxury home areas
• Difficult to find comps due to varying home ages and remodels
• Online algorithms may not accurately reflect home values (insider tip!)

Lake Hills Estates: Lake Views on a Budget

• Older homes with character
• Some properties offer stunning lake views
• Great value for those who want to be near the water

New Construction: Modern Living in El Dorado Hills

For those of you who prefer that new home smell, we've got some fantastic options in the newer parts of town.

Blackstone: Family-Friendly Paradise

• Newer construction with modern amenities
• Charter school that's highly sought-after
• Country club included in the HOA (talk about a deal!)
• Multiple pools and community events
• Ideal for families with young children

Pro tip: High school students are bused 20 minutes to Union Mine, so keep that in mind if you've got teens.

Rural Living: More Land, More Freedom

If you're dreaming of wide-open spaces and room to roam, these villages might be right up your alley.

Spring Meadow: Tiny Village, Big Parcels

• Small, exclusive community
• One-acre parcels for those who love their space

Woodridge: A Hidden Gem with Character

• Not gated but still exclusive
• Summer Drive is a local favorite with large one-acre parcels
• Houses set back on top of a creek for natural beauty

Green Springs Ranch: Rural Paradise

• Technically part of Rescue, but worth mentioning
• Rural properties with 5 to 10-acre parcels
• Perfect for animal lovers or those seeking a country lifestyle

55+ Communities: Active Adult Living

For our friends looking for an active adult community, El Dorado Hills has got you covered.

Heritage & Bylenar: Luxury Living for the 55+ Crowd

• Two country clubs to choose from
• Indoor swimming for year-round fitness
• Pickleball courts (because who doesn't love pickleball?)
• Average HOA around $400/month

Premium and Luxury Villages: Living the Dream

Now, let's talk about some of the cream-of-the-crop neighborhoods in El Dorado Hills.

Waterford: Lake Access and Top Schools

• Premium village with high demand
• Walking distance to the lake with scenic trails
• No HOA (more money in your pocket!)
• Competitive market due to nice homes, good schools, and desirable location

Highland View: Spacious Luxury with Potential

• Older luxury homes from the 80s
• Massive 4,000-5,000 square foot homes
• Most need updating (perfect for those who love a project)
• Low turnover, so grab one when you can!

Shire: Custom Luxury on Acreage

• Custom luxury homes on one-acre parcels
• Not gated but still exclusive
• Homes here sell almost instantly (be ready to move fast!)

Bridalwood Canyon: Another Hidden Gem

• Wonderful village with a unique feature
• Small lake in the center
• Perfect for those who love to take out small boats or just enjoy the view

Gated Communities and Custom Homes: Exclusivity at Its Finest

For those seeking the ultimate in privacy and luxury, these communities are worth checking out.

South Pointe, The Summit & Marina Hills

• Luxury and custom homes for discerning buyers
• The Summit is gated, with only a few buildable lots left
• Prices range from $1 million to $4 million

Serrano: The Crown Jewel of El Dorado Hills

Last but certainly not least, we have Serrano, the most famous and desirable place to live in El Dorado Hills.

• Largest village in El Dorado Hills
• Divided by Serrano Parkway
• South side: production homes ($750,000 to $1.8 million)
• North side: custom homes for those who want it all
• Country Club with golf course
• Certain villages (CD and others) have direct golf cart access to the course
• Semi-custom homes on the southeast corner with a 1% fee for each transaction

Final Considerations: Making the Right Choice

Whew! That was a lot of information, wasn't it? But wait, there's more! Here are some extra tips to keep in mind when choosing your perfect El Dorado Hills neighborhood:

1. School districts: Oak Ridge High School serves many villages and has top-rated schools. However, some villages on the edges of El Dorado Hills are zoned for other high schools like Union Mine or in Folsom. Always check current school lines as they can change.
2. Retirement planning: If you're retiring on a fixed income, consider non-HOA villages to keep your monthly expenses down.
3. HOA fees: These can vary widely between villages, so factor this into your budget.
4. Diversity of options: From entry-level to luxury custom homes, with and without HOAs, near schools and amenities – El Dorado Hills has it all. Understanding the nuances of each village is key to finding your perfect fit.

Ready to Make the Move?

If you've made it this far, chances are you're seriously considering a move to El Dorado Hills or one of Sacramento's suburbs. My team and I would love to be your go-to real estate resource. As the #1 boutique brokerage in the area, we know El Dorado Hills & County inside and out. We've helped hundreds of families buy and sell here every year, and we'd love to help you, too!

Want to get started? Just email me at [email protected] or leave us a message, and let's make your El Dorado Hills dream a reality!

FAQs About El Dorado Hills Neighborhoods

What's the most affordable village in El Dorado Hills?

Hills of El Dorado is one of the most affordable, with entry-level homes under $650,000. It's a hidden gem that offers great value for money.

Which village is best for families with young children?

Blackstone is ideal for families with young children. It has a charter school, multiple pools, and lots of community events.

Are there any 55+ communities in El Dorado Hills?

Yes, Heritage & Bylenar are two excellent 55+ communities with country clubs, indoor swimming, and pickleball courts.

What's the most luxurious neighborhood in El Dorado Hills?

Serrano is widely considered El Dorado Hills's crown jewel. It offers both production and custom homes, a country club, and a golf course.

Are there any villages without HOA fees?

Yes, several villages like Stonebriar and Waterford don't have HOA fees, which can be great for those on a fixed income or who prefer to manage their own property.

There you have it – your comprehensive guide to the 53 villages of El Dorado Hills! If you want to view the map with all 53 villages of El Dorado Hills then check it out here.

Still curious and want to learn more about El Dorado Hills? Check out our ultimate guide to living in El Dorado Hills.

Remember, choosing the right neighborhood is all about finding the perfect fit for your lifestyle and needs. And hey, if you need any help navigating this awesome community, I'm just an email away. Let's find your dream home in El Dorado Hills together!