The Colony

The Colony, also called The Colony at California Oaks, is a gated 55+ community in Murrieta with 1,501 single-family homes, built from 1989 to 2005 by Ryland Homes, Mastercraft Residential, and Crowell & David. With more than 60 floor plans, homes run from about 950 to 2,100 square feet, most with two or three bedrooms and an attached two-car garage.

The clubhouse has a fitness center, a ballroom and theater, hobby and craft studios, a library, a music room, and billiards, with a resort-style pool and spa, tennis, bocce, shuffleboard, and miles of walking trails outside. A full-time activities director runs the clubs and events, and residents get discounted rates at the neighboring California Oaks Golf Course. The I-15 and I-215 are both close by, along with grocery stores, pharmacies, and Rancho Springs Medical Center.

HOA dues vary by home, so confirm the current amount on any home you’re considering. Community details are from 55places and The Colony HOA.