Where Elevated Living Meets Natural Splendor
Nestled in the scenic Sierra Nevada foothills, El Dorado Hills (EDH) offers a unique blend of luxury, natural beauty, and suburban convenience. Often ranked among the most desirable places to live in Northern California, this community appeals to those who seek spacious homes, excellent schools, and an active lifestyle while remaining within commuting distance of Sacramento. Whether you’re drawn to its award-winning schools, vibrant town center, or breathtaking views of Folsom Lake, EDH provides a lifestyle that’s hard to match.
El Dorado Hills is a highly desirable real estate market, offering a variety of homes, from luxurious custom estates to family-friendly neighborhoods with parks and excellent schools. The median home price hovers around $900K, and the area has seen consistent year-over-year appreciation. Limited inventory and high demand make it a solid long-term investment for buyers looking for stability and growth potential. While the price tag is higher than some neighboring cities, buyers benefit from larger lot sizes, newer homes, and a strong sense of community.
EDH is known for its well-maintained neighborhoods, many with HOA oversight, ensuring home values remain high. However, prospective buyers should factor in HOA fees and Mello-Roos taxes in newer developments, which contribute to enhanced infrastructure but can increase annual costs.
El Dorado Hills offers unparalleled access to nature. Residents can enjoy:
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, a popular spot for boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking
The American River Parkway, with miles of scenic trails for cycling and jogging
Multiple community parks featuring sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails
Golf courses, including the prestigious Serrano Country Club, which features an 18-hole championship course with breathtaking lake views
If you love the outdoors, EDH provides year-round activities, whether it’s kayaking on the lake, hiking in the foothills, or taking scenic drives to Apple Hill or Lake Tahoe. That being said, EDH’s suburban feel means you’ll need a car for most activities, as public transportation options are limited.
Education is one of El Dorado Hills' biggest draws, making it a top choice for families. The area is served by two high-performing districts:
Buckeye Union & Rescue Union School Districts (K-8) – Excellent public elementary and middle schools, with many scoring 9 or 10 on GreatSchools ratings.
Oak Ridge High School – Ranked among the top high schools in California, boasting a 97% graduation rate, a strong STEM and AP program, and high college acceptance rates.
Private & Charter Options – Options like Golden Hills School and John Adams Academy provide additional education choices, including classical and college-prep curricula.
EDH’s school system is a major reason why families move here specifically for education, contributing to strong home values. However, school zoning can impact property desirability, so prospective buyers should check specific school boundaries when house hunting.
El Dorado Hills combines small-town charm with modern amenities. Residents enjoy:
El Dorado Hills Town Center, a bustling hub featuring boutique shops, restaurants, fitness centers, and a luxury IMAX theater.
Farmers markets, art & wine festivals, and live music events, creating a tight-knit and socially active community.
Annual events like the Fourth of July Fireworks Festival, holiday tree lighting, and summer concert series.
Despite its small-town feel, EDH offers plenty of shopping and dining options, though some residents prefer to visit nearby Folsom or Sacramento for a wider variety of retail and entertainment choices.
EDH is primarily a residential community, but its economy benefits from its proximity to Folsom’s technology and healthcare hubs, including Intel and major medical centers. The median household income is around $160K, reflecting the area’s highly educated and professional population.
Business growth is steadily increasing, with more medical offices, tech startups, and service businesses emerging. However, commuters should expect some drive time – Sacramento is about 35–40 minutes away, and while El Dorado Transit commuter buses are available, most residents rely on personal vehicles for work commutes.
While El Dorado Hills offers exceptional quality of life, it’s important for buyers to weigh potential challenges:
Higher Cost of Living – Luxury living comes at a price, with property taxes, HOA fees, and Mello-Roos assessments in many neighborhoods.
Car-Dependent Lifestyle – Unlike urban areas, EDH lacks major public transit options; most errands require driving.
Fire Safety Considerations – Being in the foothills, fire insurance costs may be higher, and buyers should check for fire risk assessments in certain areas.
Limited Nightlife – While family-oriented, EDH is quieter compared to cities like Sacramento, with fewer late-night entertainment options.
El Dorado Hills is a place where you can have it all – luxury homes, excellent schools, stunning nature, and a thriving community. It’s ideal for: ✔ Families looking for top-rated schools and a welcoming environment ✔ Professionals who want scenic suburban living with proximity to job hubs ✔ Retirees seeking a peaceful, active lifestyle with access to outdoor recreation ✔ Buyers looking for a long-term investment in a steadily appreciating market
However, those who prefer an urban, walkable lifestyle or lower-cost living may find EDH’s suburban nature and home prices to be a challenge.
For those who prioritize space, beauty, and a high-quality lifestyle, El Dorado Hills is more than a place to live—it’s a community where you can truly thrive.
Utility Providers: PG&E (electricity & gas), El Dorado Irrigation District (water), Comcast/Xfinity.
HOAs: Many gated communities have HOAs, ranging from $100-$400/month. Be sure to check individual neighborhood costs and regulations.
Thinking about making El Dorado Hills your home? Reach out to explore your options and find the perfect neighborhood that fits your lifestyle!
4,411 people live in El Dorado Hills, where the median age is 49.3 and the average individual income is $39,003. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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There's plenty to do around El Dorado Hills, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
El Dorado Hills has 1,606 households, with an average household size of 2.75. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in El Dorado Hills do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 4,411 people call El Dorado Hills home. The population density is 98.77 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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