Forster Ranch, San Clemente

Forster Ranch is a master-planned community in north San Clemente. Located along the San Clemente ridgelines east of I-5, Forster Ranch is largely inhabited by outdoor enthusiasts and family-friendly neighbors – it is no surprise then that the nearby Forster Ranch Ridgeline Trail is a local favorite. The community is characterized by an extensive range of housing options, from single-family homes to high-end condos, from ungated to gated communities. What sets Forster Ranch apart from the rest of San Clemente is its community amenities set against a backdrop of open spaces and panoramic views.

Forster Ranch is made up of homes built from the early 1980s to as recently as 2009. But its namesake is rooted to a lineage far older. John “Don Juan” Forster bought the San Juan Capistrano mission for $710 in 1844 and lived there for 20 years. The Forster Mansion off Ortega Highway was built in 1909 by John’s grandson, Frank. And Marco Forster Middle School is named for one of John’s great grandsons in 1968.

Forster is a household name in south Orange County. Forster became synonymous with the largest landowners in all of California with approximately 250,000 acres stretching from Mission Viejo to Rancho Santa Margarita to San Clemente. The last of this land was sold in 2007, but the name “Forster” lives on. Forster Ranch pays homage to a heavy Spanish influence with beautiful brick and stonework, red tile roofs and lush landscaping, plentiful cul-de-sacs, and expansive views.

Many Forster Ranch homes boast views of the San Clemente coastlines, hillsides, and canyons. As one of the largest communities in San Clemente, single-family homes range from approximately 1,230 to 4,305 square feet and high-end condos ranging from approximately 950 to 3,212 square feet. And most homes include floorplans with three to seven bedrooms while most condos include floor plans with two to four bedrooms. If you are looking for a family-friendly neighborhood with all the amenities, add Forster Ranch to your buyer tour!

Residence in Forster Ranch does include association dues but does not include Mello-Roos. The Forster Ranch Master homeowner’s association provides community pools, spas, outdoor recreation areas, sport courts, walking paths, and many other exclusive advantages. San Clemente’s renowned beaches, local restaurants, and shopping are just down the hill. Capistrano Beach, Dana Point, and Rancho Mission Viejo are minutes away. Work commutes or recreational drives are made simple with easy access to I-5 or La Pata.