Rolling Coastal-Close Hillside Town

Aliso Viejo

Originally part of Juan Avila’s Mexican land grant in 1842, then becoming part of the 22,000-acre Moulton Ranch in the 1890’s, and passing into the Mission Viejo Company’s hands in 1976, Aliso Viejo finally became Orange County’s 34th city with its incorporation in 2001.

Continually ranked one of the safest cities in the nation, Aliso Viejo is draped over coastal hillsides & valley terrain and has picturesque views of the Santa Ana mountains, streams, parks and city lights that stretch across the South OC basin.

The City’s name means “old sycamore”, which can be found along the trails and in the coastal valleys. Multiple trailheads located throughout the city afford access to the Orange County trail system that leads off in every direction to world class mountain biking terrain.

The City continues to be ranked among the best places in the nation to live, mirroring the City’s tagline: “Live Life Inspired.”

Aliso Viejo | Real Estate

Tucked into the rolling hills of South Orange County, Aliso Viejo offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern convenience. Known for its clean streets, family-friendly neighborhoods, and top-rated schools, the city attracts residents seeking both quality of life and easy access to nearby coastal destinations like Laguna Beach and Dana Point.

Aliso Viejo is home to a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and recreation. The Town Center serves as the city’s social hub, while parks, trails, and the Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park offer countless opportunities for hiking, biking, and connecting with nature. With a strong sense of community and a focus on healthy living, Aliso Viejo strikes a perfect balance between relaxation and activity.

Real estate in Aliso Viejo ranges from stylish condominiums and townhomes to spacious single-family residences, many with scenic hillside or canyon views. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a growing family, or someone looking to downsize without compromising on lifestyle, Aliso Viejo presents a variety of options in a well-planned, welcoming environment.

Aliso Viejo | Brief History

Aliso Viejo, California: A Master-Planned Vision in the Coastal Hills

Originally part of Rancho Niguel, a Mexican land grant from 1842, Aliso Viejo remained undeveloped ranchland for over a century. In the 1970s, the Mission Viejo Company began acquiring land from the historic Moulton Ranch and laid the groundwork for a master-planned community emphasizing open space, neighborhood villages, and walkability.

Development accelerated through the 1980s and 1990s, and the city officially incorporated in 2001. Today, Aliso Viejo offers a blend of hillside condos, suburban single-family homes, and corporate campuses. Its proximity to wilderness trails, top schools, and nearby beaches makes it a sought-after community for families and professionals alike.

For a deeper dive into the history of Aliso Viejo seen through the lens of real estate development over time, read our in-depth Aliso Viejo History here.

Moulton Parkway, Aliso Viejo, 1977. Photo courtesy of Orange County Archives.

Recent Blog Posts

Aliso Viejo | Villages & Neighborhoods

Aliso Viejo | Lifestyle, Landscapes & Living

Jesse is always out in the local communities, taking photos of the people, places, and landscapes, trying to capture the spirit of the place. Fun fact – with the exception of the historic photos, almost every photo on this website was taken by Jesse. Whether you are a long-time Aliso Viejo resident or are only now just considering moving here, we hope you will enjoy these photographs and further acquaint yourself with some of the Aliso Viejo homes found in the different neighborhoods of Aliso Viejo; enjoy!