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San Juan Capistrano might be smaller than its high-profile Orange County neighbors, but trust me, it packs a punch in personality. If you’re into the historic core, then you’ve got to check out the Los Rios Historic District, said to be the oldest residential neighborhood in California. Picture a row of quaint, centuries-old homes turned into boutiques, coffee shops, and even a petting zoo for the kids. It’s like stepping into a storybook—roosters wandering the streets, and locals sipping lattes on old wooden porches.
For something more modern, the Rancho Mission Viejo development sprawls out into the rolling hills with brand-new homes, community pools, hiking trails, and all the modern amenities you’d expect in upscale suburban life. The vibe here skews toward families who want that “new neighborhood” feel but still crave easy access to beaches and the old-town charm.
San Juan Capistrano is known for being equestrian-friendly, so don’t be surprised to see folks trotting along on horseback near the riverbed trails. That’s right—horses are a real part of the lifestyle here. The city’s population runs the gamut: you’ve got lifelong residents who’ve been around since the days when the mission was the main attraction, young professionals seeking a quieter vibe, retirees looking for the perfect SoCal climate, and of course, surfers heading to nearby Doheny or San Clemente beaches.
In terms of transportation, you can catch the Metrolink train right in town, which is super convenient for commuting up to LA or down to San Diego. The I-5 freeway is also right there, which can be a blessing or a curse depending on traffic. But once you’re off the main roads, you’ve got meandering residential streets lined with palm trees, orange groves, and that indescribable sense of calm that hits you whenever you’re near the mission.
Amenities? Let’s see: you’ve got a nice selection of boutique shops in the downtown area, a handful of local grocery stores, and quick drives to bigger shopping centers in neighboring cities. And if you’re a park person, there’s no shortage of trails and green spaces—like the Reata Park and Event Center—perfect for picnics or weekend family gatherings. There’s something so chill about this place that makes you want to slow down and actually enjoy the moment. Move here, and you’ll probably find yourself attending local festivals, sipping margaritas at a local Mexican joint, and wondering how you ever lived anywhere else.
When it comes to education, San Juan Capistrano is served by the Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD), which has a reputation for solid academics and well-rounded extracurriculars. San Juan Hills High School is a major player in the area, known for its competitive sports teams—especially football and baseball. Their stadium lights up on Friday nights, and half the town seems to show up to cheer on the Stallions. Another popular high school option is Capistrano Valley High School, just a short drive away in Mission Viejo, also boasting strong academics and a spirited athletics program.
For younger students, Ambuehl Elementary and Del Obispo Elementary often stand out for their friendly campuses and committed teachers. There’s also Marco Forster Middle School, which is recognized for preparing kids well for that jump to high school. Test scores in the district are typically above state averages, and parents appreciate the involvement of the community—PTAs are pretty active, meaning fundraisers, events, and volunteer programs are woven into the social fabric.
If you’re looking at private education, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School has a long-standing reputation for rigorous academics, with a range of programs that cater to arts, STEM, and athletics. They’ve produced some high-achieving grads, and their sports teams (the Tartans) are no joke, often dominating in regional competitions.
All in all, families who move here quickly realize that education is a communal effort. Whether it’s investing in school facilities, showing up to basketball games, or coordinating carpool routes, the folks in San Juan Capistrano come together to help kids succeed. That local pride is a big reason why so many families plant long-term roots in this city.
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Shopping in San Juan Capistrano is a mix of old and new, much like the town itself. You’ve got the Mission Promenade near the historic Mission, where you can browse boutique stores selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to locally made soaps. If you’re craving bigger retail therapy, The Shops at Mission Viejo is just up the freeway—hello, department stores and fancy dining options.
Speaking of dining, you absolutely have to try El Adobe de Capistrano, a staple that’s been around forever, serving up Mexican dishes and margaritas strong enough to make you forget your workweek. Another local favorite is Ramos House Café in the Los Rios District, known for its killer brunch (just be prepared for a bit of a wait on weekends).
For those who like to stay active, there are plenty of fitness studios sprinkled around, from yoga at CPY (CorePower Yoga) to small CrossFit boxes that draw a dedicated crowd. Sports teams abound, especially for the kids—soccer leagues at the nearby fields, baseball at the local park, you name it.
If you’re itching for a quick day trip, the Mission San Juan Capistrano itself is always worth a visit—soaked in California history and gorgeous architecture. If you want to escape into nature, the Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park is a short drive away, offering hiking trails, camping spots, and the kind of scenery that reminds you SoCal isn’t just beaches. And let’s not forget that the coastline is just minutes from town—so a quick trip to Doheny State Beach for some sand and surf is practically part of the weekly routine around here.
San Juan Capistrano is a small city with a big heart, home to around 36,000 people who take pride in blending history, culture, and a laid-back California lifestyle. Every year, you’ve got the Swallows Day Parade (usually in March), celebrating the return of—you guessed it—the famous swallows to the Mission. It’s one of the largest non-motorized parades in the country, featuring equestrians, marching bands, and a big dose of community spirit. The whole town pretty much shuts down to line the streets and cheer—it’s glorious chaos.
Another highlight? The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo, which rolls into town every summer. Think bull riding, mutton busting for the little ones, and all the Western flair you can handle. Then there are the smaller events—seasonal festivals, art shows, and farmer’s markets that pop up in the Los Rios District or downtown near the Mission. Each event gives you a glimpse into the soul of this town: open-armed and totally up for a good time.
Despite the historical leanings, San Juan Capistrano isn’t stuck in the past. You’ll see modern developments cropping up, but the city keeps a firm grip on preserving its heritage—those adobes, the Mission courtyard, the iconic train depot. And that train depot? It’s still active, offering an Amtrak and Metrolink stop that conveniently connects you to the greater Southern California area. It’s a sweet perk for commuters or even just folks who want a stress-free day trip to San Diego or LA.
One of the best parts of living here is how the community pulls together. Neighbors actually talk to each other, local businesses collaborate on charity events, and families pile into the old Mission for the annual tree lighting at Christmas. It’s messy sometimes—traffic jams on the I-5 can test your patience, and the popularity of the Mission can make downtown a little crowded on weekends. But that’s all part of the charm: real people living real lives in a place that values tradition, welcomes newcomers, and celebrates just about everything. If that sounds like a community you’d be into, Jason Wright can help you dive right in.
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What began as a long career in construction and contracting has evolved into something even more rewarding for Jason Wright — as a Sales Partner with Tim Smith Real Estate Group, Coldwell Banker’s #1 Team in California.
Jason credits his background in commercial and residential projects for his unique understanding of the development and construction process. This experience makes him a valuable partner when it comes to buying or selling a home. He offers strong negotiation and support skills, which benefit clients throughout the entire process. Jason complements his knowledge with a passion to deliver results and works hard for his clients, especially those who are genuine and value honesty and integrity, as much as he does. His positivity, enthusiasm, and dedication to an exceptional experience are traits that have helped him build trusting relationships as well as referral-based business.
Jason very well understands that to be successful you need the right tools. He brings a new approach to a changing industry, finding ways to constantly stay ahead of the curve, utilizing the latest technology and methods to give his clients the greatest leverage possible.
As a third-generation South OC resident, Jason’s familiarity of the community proves invaluable for his clients in their targeted home searches. Whether you’re buying or selling — see how the “Wright Realtor” can make all the difference. And with Jason, it does.
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