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.

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
-
Featured
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
-
Featured
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
-
Featured
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
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