The City of Rancho Santa Margarita is located along the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains.
 The first homes in this master planned community were sold in 1986. Since then, the town has grown to a population of more than 47,000. The community's four major shopping centers are complete, and the last open retail spaces and the final housing tract will be complete within two years.
 In November, area voters opted to incorporate the planned community and neighboring Robinson Ranch, Dove Canyon, Rancho Cielo, Trabuco Highlands and Walden. The city incorporated on January 1, 2000, becoming the 33rd city in the County of Orange. Rancho Santa Margarita has grown into a mature community with a balanced mix of homes, shops, entertainment and recreational opportunities.