Ranches For Sale

California Ranch Properties

Looking for an investment-grade ranch property for sale in California? We specialize in ranches for sale in northern and southern California and have up-to-date inventory at the bottom of this page.  If you don’t see a listing for your ideal California ranch featured here, contact us and we can help you find your ideal ranch property and location. San Diego ranches offer a unique combination of high meadow ranch properties to ranch style homes for sale.

Ranch Property Land Values

In the US, Rural land values have increased steadily since 2010. Since the ‘delinking of agricultural income,’ recreational users have entered the ranch property market. This increased competition has lead to higher pricing and quicker inventory turnover. This trend is expected to continue for the foreseeable future as the trend toward ruralization rises.

A Guide to Buying a California Ranch

Things like mineral and water rights, wildlife, hunting, fire risk and cattle ranching can all catch prospective ranch buyers by surprise. There are other considerations when buying a California ranch, like whether the property is deeded or privately owned and what percentage of the land is leased by the state or federal government. Access to the ranch land for sale may be problematic, with some ranch properties only accessible via an easement through other private property. Here is a quick list of things to look out for when buying a ranch for sale in California.

Consider the purpose of your ranch

  • Is your ranch strictly for recreation or will you be working the land, raising cattle or entertaining?

How much land will you need?

  • For cattle ranchers, the rule of thumb is 30 acres of land per head since they can eat one half of a ton of hay per month. Land quantity and quality may impact your budget, so speak with your broker to find the optimal deal

How much labor will you need?

  • Depending on the intended use of your ranch and the ranch for sale, you may need to hire ranch hands, maintenance people, hospitality employees and general caretakers

Soil and Climate

  • Does the soil support hay and other fodder consumed by your livestock? Soil depth, topography, and water availability can all impact the success of a ranch. Get your soil and groundwater tested

Finances/Taxes

  • There are many things you can do to reduce property taxes and qualify for agricultural-use tax rates, thereby decreasing the risk to buying a ranch property for sale. You may also be eligible for an agricultural loan depending on the land use – Read more on that below!

Zoning

  • Check local laws and discuss with your broker whether ranching and farming are permitted in the ranch for sale

Find a broker you can trust

  • Use a real estate agent or broker with extensive ranch knowledge, a proven track record and a network of local connections you can trust

Whether you are looking for a San Diego ranch for sale or various ranches for sale in northern California, consider the tax implications and how you may be able to work legislation to your benefit. The Williamson Act was passed in 1965 to help conserve agricultural or open space property – ideal for those interested in ranches for sale in California.

Featured Ranch Property

Ballena Vista Farm

Williamson Act

Source: The California Land Conservation Act 2014 Status Report

Williamson Act California

Reduced Property Taxes for Large Acreages Ranches

The California Land Conservation act of 1965, commonly referred to as the Williamson Act, named after assemblyman John Williamson of Yolo County, was developed to restrict the use of land to agricultural or open space use. In return, landowners with approved Williamson Act contracts receive a reduction in assessed property taxes for their agricultural preserves. Today, nearly 17 million of the state’s 45 million acres are protected under the Williamson Act.

Williamson Act Contract Criteria

Owners of large acreage ranches can initiate a Williamson Act 10 year minimum contract if the property in question meets the minimum parcel size and meets the threshold for devoted to commercial agricultural use. These thresholds vary depending on the classification of the land (prime or non-prime). Here are the general guidelines for Williamson Act Criteria.

Benefits to Williamson Act Contract Holders

According to the department of conservation, the Williamson Act is estimated to save agricultural and ranch landowners from 20 percent to 75 percent in property tax liability each year. A 2009 survey performed by the University of Davis, California, found that 71% of Williamson Act-enrolled ranchers reported a net annual profit equal to or less than their Williamson Act property tax savings.

If you are looking for an eligible Williamson Act large acreage ranch for sale, contact us!

Our Ranches for Sale in California

  • Active Listing For Sale
    Rancho Cerca Del Cielo

    Pauma Valley, CA 92061

    $2,900,000

    Situated on 44+/- acres, Rancho Cerca Del Cielo presents an exceptional opportunity for farming enthusiasts, agricultural entrepreneurs, or families...

    • Bed3
    • Baths3
    • Sq Ft2346
    • Lot Size44.17 Acres
  • Active Listing For Sale
    Ballena Vista Farm

    Ramona, CA 92065

    $17,500,000

    Discover Ballena Vista Farm: Where Legacy, Luxury and Lifestyle Converge. Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of the Ramona Valley...

    • Bed5
    • Baths4
    • Sq Ft4672
    • Lot Size170 Acres
  • Active Listing For Sale
    Star B Ranch

    Ramona, 92065

    $7,950,000

    Step into a world where the spirit of the American West comes to life at Star B Ranch, home...

    • Bed3
    • Baths3.5
    • Sq Ft3800
    • Lot Size590 Acres
  • Sold
    Breezy Farm

    Ranchita, 92066

    $1,055,000

    Seeking the tranquility of the country lifestyle to fulfill your dreams and enjoy self-sustainable living? The possibilities abound at...

    • Bed3
    • Baths2
    • Sq Ft2066
    • Lot Size9.54 Acres
  • Sold
    Casa Rock Crest

    Warner Springs, CA 92086

    $579,000

    Welcome to Casa Rock Crest, a classic 1940’s multifamily ranch-style retreat elevated above the expansive 17,800-acre San Felipe Valley...

    • Bed3
    • Baths1
    • Sq Ft1634
    • Lot Size17.19 Acres
  • Active Listing For Sale
    42 Acre Magee Road Ranchette Site

    Pala, CA 92059

    $425,000

    One of the last large, undeveloped properties in the higher elevations of the Rancho Heights neighborhood, this 42.4+/- acre property features panoramic...

      Lot Size42.4 Acres
  • Active Listing For Sale
    Breathtaking 71 Acre Hilltop Panorama Site

    Pala, CA 92059

    $849,000

    One of the last large, undeveloped properties in the higher elevations of the Rancho Heights neighborhood, this 71.49+/- acre property features panoramic...

      Lot Size71.49 Acres
  • Active Listing For Sale
    Rancho Vista Del Valle

    Santa Ysabel, 92070

    $4,395,000

    Located high atop historic Mesa Grande, one of Southern California’s most coveted rural lifestyle locales, lies a wealth of...

    • Bed5
    • Baths6
    • Sq Ft3251
    • Lot Size151.07 Acres
  • Sold
    Morning Star Ranch

    Boulevard, 91905

    $995,000

    Dreaming of wide-open space with privacy and the quintessential country lifestyle? Your dream awaits at Morning Star Ranch, a...

    • Bed3
    • Baths2
    • Lot Size120 Acres
  • Sold
    Historic I.B. William’s Ranch

    Santa Ysabel, 92070

    $889,500

    I.B. William’s Ranch, a historic homestead, conveniently located along the gateway to the quaint town of Julian in the...

    • Bed3
    • Baths1
    • Sq Ft1118
    • Lot Size13.81 Acres
  • Sold
    Historic Rancho Jamul

    Jamul, 91935

    $5,988,000

    Historic Rancho Jamul, established in the mid-19th century, the headquarters for a once sprawling cattle ranch and equine operation...

    • Bed13
    • Baths12
    • RRC#598-050-14-00
    • Lot Size120 Acres
  • Sold
    Quiet Oaks Country Retreat

    Julian, 92036

    $1,100,000

    Seller will entertain offers in the value range of $975,000 to $1,100,000. Enjoy country living with AMAZING PANORAMIC VIEWS...

    • Bed3
    • Baths2
    • RRC#292-120-65-00
    • Sq Ft2400
    • Lot Size11.4 Acres
  • Sold
    Running Oak Ranch

    Julian, 92036

    $1,149,000

    Running Oak Ranch Running Oak Ranch located in the heart of San Diego County’s apple, wine, and gold country...

    • Bed3
    • Baths2
    • RRC#NDP2111081
    • Sq Ft3947
    • Lot Size5 Acres
  • Sold
    Oak Ridge Stock Farm

    Julian, 92036

    $6,999,000

    Located in the heart of Southern California’s pristine San Diego County Mountains, sits the 621+ acre Oak Ridge Stock...

    • Bed3
    • Baths2
    • Sq Ft1800
    • Lot Size621 Acres
  • Sold
    206+/- ACRE CLASSIC COUNTRY RANCH

    Julian, 92036

    $3,750,000

    206+/- ACRE CLASSIC COUNTRY RANCH In the heart of Southern California’s pristine mountains, centered between the Cuyamaca Mountain Range...

    • Bed7
    • Baths8
    • RRC#NDP2108666
    • Sq Ft4227
    • Lot Size206 +/- Acres
  • Sold
    Panoramic Trail Ranch

    Santa Ysabel, 92070

    $1,390,000

    Panoramic Trail Ranch Ideally situated on 40+/- breathtaking pastoral and wooded acres in the private, gated Panorama Trail neighborhood...

    • Bed3
    • Baths2
    • Sq Ft1845
    • Lot Size40.70 Acres
  • Sold
    San Diego County Recreational Paradise

    Mount Laguna, 91948

    $299,000

    San Diego County Recreational Paradise Rare opportunity to own pristine, expansive mountainous land in the San Diego backcountry community...

      Lot Size166 Acres
  • Sold
    25 +/- Acre Exceptional Agricultural Opportunity

    Julian, 92036

    $359,000

    25 +/- Acre Exceptional Agricultural Opportunity In the beautiful agricultural center of Julian, CA lies a rare offering of...

      Lot Size25 Acres
  • Sold
    177 +/- Acre Pristine Ranch Paradise

    Ramona, 92065

    $1,649,000

    177 +/- Acre Pristine Ranch Paradise ~ Seller Accepting Backup Offers ~ In the lush agricultural heart of the...

      Lot Size177 Acres
  • Sold
    Double R Ranch
    Scenic Multipurpose Residential Retreat

    Warner Springs, 92086

    $1,749,000

    Scenic Multipurpose Ranching Retreat 142+/- acres of scenic, private residential ranch land tucked away on the Northeastern margin of...

    • Bed5
    • Baths5
    • Sq Ft3500
    • Lot Size142.10 Acres
  • Sold
    Southern California Valley View Vineyard & Estate

    Valley Center, 92082

    $2,995,000

    Southern California Valley View Vineyard & Estate Come enjoy the country lifestyle at this stunning Valley View Vineyard Estate...

    • Bed4
    • Baths2.5
    • Sq Ft2436
    • Lot Size93.52 Acres
  • Sold
    Private Retreat in Hoskings Ranch

    Santa Ysabel, 92070

    $2,100,000

    Magnificent Private Retreat in Hoskings Ranch; History and Style Unite in a 4,500 esf Custom Ranch Home on 46...

    • Baths3.5
    • Sq Ft4500
    • Lot Size46 Acres
  • Sold
    160 Acre Mesa Grande Ranch

    Santa Ysabel, 92070

    $1,995,000

    160 Acre Mesa Grande Ranch An incredible opportunity awaits at this 160-acre ranch property, located in the heart of...

    • RRC#190045266
    • Sq Ft1990
    • Lot Size160 Acres
  • Sold
    Mesa Grande Hilltop Estate

    Santa Ysabel, 92070

    $1,999,000

    A rare opportunity awaits at this remarkable hilltop home situated on 98.09 acres with extraordinary 360- degree panoramic views. ...

    • Bed2
    • Baths2
    • RRC#200001737
    • Sq Ft1861
    • Lot Size98.09 Acres
  • Sold
    9.47 Acres Beautiful Ramona View

    Ramona, 92065

    $150,000

    Parcel #23: 9.47 Acres Beautiful Ramona View MOTIVATED SELLER!!! Price Reduced! Sitting on 9.46 acres in sunny Ramona, this...

    • BedN/A
    • BathsN/A
    • Sq FtN/A
    • Lot Size9.47 Acres