R ancho Santa Fe, California is located in the highly desirable North County region of San Diego. The town is a California Historic Landmark and is known for its large lots, celebrity residents, and world class resorts and facilities. Renowned architect Lillian Rice planned the subdivision and many of the public buildings throughout town. Her vision of Spanish Colonial Revival set the standard for most of the edifices in the area, and continues to guide development in the region decades later. She planned the winding roads in the subdivision to encourage drivers to slow down and enjoy the scenery, setting a unique tone for the town of Rancho Santa Fe.

The community is well known for its equestrian, golf and tennis facilities. Resorts here host celebrities and some of the most affluent visitors from around the world. Here you will find some of the best equestrian facilities and trainers in the country. With this infrastructure, Rancho Santa Fe was charged with hosting the equestrian events during the 1984 Summer Olympics. There are bridle paths throughout the area, and polo is a popular activity.

Rancho Santa Fe is the most affluent community in America. There are only approximately 3,200 people who live within its boundaries. The median age of a resident here is 47 years old. The majority of residents are employed in either finance or professional services. Because of its highly educated and affluent residents, Rancho Santa Fe leads the nation in both per capita income and home values.

While Rancho Santa Fe is located on the meandering San Dieguito River, it is also just seven miles from some of the most pristine beaches along the California coast. The town center maintains the feel of an ultra-private hamlet. Here you will find world class restaurants and boutiques, lauded for their exclusive offerings and impeccable service. The San Diego Polo Club is located here, as well as the internationally recognized restaurant Mille Fluers. The town is also home to the world renowned resorts Rancho Valencia, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe and Morgan Run Resort and Club. Throughout the town are some of the nation's top caliber golf courses and tennis courts.

Families benefit from the area schools, which are collectively and individually national leaders. The R. Roger Rowe School is the top ranking Covenant School, while Torrey Pines High School is a National Blue Ribbon School, designated by the U.S. Secretary of Education. It has also received the New American High School Award, recognizing that this school leads the nation in preparing its students for the future. Cal Sports Magazine named Torrey Pines its "State School of the Year" in recognition of its unique combination as a scholastic leader, with nearly a dozen Division Championship sports teams. The school's principal has defined the school's goal as providing a niche for every student, whether academic, social, intellectual, athletic, artistic, or activity-based. With this in mind, students have no shortage of scholastic and extracurricular activities to sample.

Residents in Rancho Santa Fe are highly involved in their community. The Library and Garden Clubs present various programs throughout the year. The town's Senior Center offers older residents dedicated transportation and other services when needed. Members of the Historical Society and Association Art Jury work to maintain the scenic beauty of the area, in line with its original covenants. And members of service and social clubs present special events and fundraisers throughout the year.

Within the technical boundaries of Rancho Santa Fe, but outside the "Covenant" area, lies the equally desirable and affluent community of Fairbanks Ranch. Perhaps best known for its country club, Fairbanks Ranch supports a population of approximately 2,200 residents. The median household income in Fairbanks Ranch is over $200,000 per year, and its home values reflect the income levels of its residents. Home prices in the area are comparable to that of Rancho Santa Fe, with the median level currently around $2 million. The area offers custom homes as well as sites upon which residents may build a home of their own design.

The Fairbanks Ranch Country Club sits on the grounds of the 1984 Olympic Equestrian Endurance Event. The bronze sculpture "Victory's Gate" rests at the entrance as a reminder. The rolling hills that served the Olympians were preserved to create a challenging course. Designed by internationally renowned architect Ted Robinson, this is widely considered one of the finest courses in the world. The club's golf professionals create weekly events to keep members enticed, and offer weekly Junior events and clinics for young people.