Neighborhood Guide: Saugus, Santa Clarita
Thinking about moving to Santa Clarita? Let me introduce you to Saugus—a vibrant, family-oriented corner of town that blends small-town charm with big-time convenience. Whether you're looking for great schools, easy access to nature, or a place where neighbors still wave hello, Saugus checks a lot of boxes.
Where is Saugus?
Saugus is nestled in the northern-central part of Santa Clarita, bordered by Valencia to the west, Canyon Country to the east, and Newhall to the south. It's a sprawling residential community with rolling hills, scenic parks, and easy access to both open space and suburban conveniences.
It’s separated by the Santa Clarita River from Valencia just to the south.
The Santa Clara River is a defining natural feature of Santa Clarita, flowing approximately 84 miles from the San Gabriel Mountains through the Santa Clarita Valley and onward to the Pacific Ocean. It is one of Southern California's last free-flowing river systems, largely undisturbed by urban development, and serves as a vital ecological corridor supporting diverse habitats and wildlife.
In Santa Clarita, the river enhances community life by providing recreational opportunities and natural beauty. The Santa Clara River Trail, a paved path running alongside the river, offers residents and visitors a scenic route for walking, jogging, and cycling, connecting neighborhoods such as Canyon Country, Saugus, and Valencia.
Beyond recreation, the river plays a crucial role in flood control and water management, helping to protect surrounding neighborhoods. Its preservation as a Significant Ecological Area ensures that it remains a sanctuary for native species and a green space for the community.
The Vibe: Friendly, Suburban, and Down-to-Earth
Saugus feels like the kind of place where people put down roots. It's quiet but not sleepy, active but not overwhelming. The community is tight-knit and unpretentious, made up of young families, long-time residents, and some retirees who just never wanted to leave.
There’s a strong sense of pride here—residents take care of their homes, and you'll often find kids riding bikes, dogs being walked, and front yard chats between neighbors.
Is Saugus Family-Friendly?
Absolutely. Saugus is one of the most family-friendly neighborhoods in Santa Clarita. You’ll find top-rated schools, wide sidewalks, family-owned businesses, and parks around nearly every corner. The area is known for being safe, clean, and low on crime, which is one of the big reasons why so many families choose to stay for the long haul.
Daily Life & Local Amenities
Living in Saugus means you’re never far from what you need. There are plenty of grocery stores (like Vons, Trader Joe’s, and Sprouts), along with shopping centers, local gyms, and coffee shops that locals love.
On weekends, many residents head to Central Park, a 130-acre gem with sports fields, hiking trails, and one of the best summer concert series in the SCV.
There’s also multiple weekly farmers markets:
Santa Clarita Certified Farmers' Market (Valencia)
When: Sundays, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: College of the Canyons, Parking Lot 5, Valencia Blvd & Rockwell Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Highlights: Over 40 California farmers offering vine and tree-ripened fruits and vegetables, artisan baked goods, and prepared foods. The market is open year-round, rain or shine, and provides seating areas for patrons to enjoy breakfast from onsite food vendors .
Newhall Farmers Market
When: Saturdays, 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: 24500 Main Street, Newhall, CA 91321
Highlights: A community-focused market featuring local farmers and food artisans. It's a great spot to find unique, locally produced items and enjoy the charming atmosphere of Old Town Newhall .
SCV Farmers Markets
Canyon Country Farmers Market
When: Wednesdays, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: 18410 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country, CA 91351
Highlights: An evening market perfect for midweek shopping, offering fresh produce and ready-to-eat foods from local vendors .
And of course, you're a short drive from larger retail hubs in Valencia or Canyon Country:
Valencia Town Center
Located in the heart of Valencia, Valencia Town Center is Santa Clarita's premier shopping destination. This expansive mall features over 170 stores, including major retailers like Macy's, JCPenney, H&M, and Forever 21. Beyond shopping, visitors can enjoy dining options, a Regal Cinemas, and various entertainment venues, making it a central hub for both locals and visitors.
River Oaks Shopping Center
Situated across from Valencia Town Center, River Oaks Shopping Center offers a mix of national retailers and dining establishments. Anchored by Target, Sprouts Farmers Market, ULTA Beauty, and Total Wine & More, it provides a convenient shopping experience. Additional tenants include Big 5 Sporting Goods, See’s Candies, and various eateries, catering to a wide range of needs.
Bridgeport Marketplace
Bridgeport Marketplace is an open-air shopping center known for its upscale ambiance and scenic surroundings. It houses a selection of boutique shops, restaurants, and services, offering a more relaxed shopping experience. The center's design and location make it a popular spot for leisurely strolls and dining.
Old Town Newhall
Old Town Newhall serves as Santa Clarita's historic and cultural district. While not a traditional shopping mall, it offers a unique blend of independent boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores. The area is also home to various theaters and hosts regular events, providing a vibrant shopping and entertainment experience.
Getting Around
Saugus isn’t the most walkable part of town (you’ll want a car for most errands), but it offers plenty of parking and a manageable commute to job centers in Santa Clarita and even Los Angeles via the nearby 5 and 14 Freeways.
Public transportation exists but is limited—most folks drive. That said, the city is well-connected, and traffic isn’t usually too much of a headache.
You’re either using the 5 to go straight south, or the 14 freeway to connect to the 5 freeway and head south for the vast majority of places you’ll need to get!
Schools
Saugus Union School District (Elementary Schools, Grades K–6)
The Saugus Union School District encompasses several elementary schools in the Saugus area. While specific Niche grades for each school aren't detailed in the available sources, the district as a whole has received a B+ grade from Niche, indicating a strong overall performance.
Here are some of the elementary schools in the district along with their GreatSchools ratings:
Mountainview Elementary School
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Emblem Academy
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Santa Clarita Elementary School
GreatSchools Rating: 7/10
Rosedell Elementary School
GreatSchools Rating: 7/10
Highlands Elementary School
GreatSchools Rating: 6/10
William S. Hart Union High School District (Middle & High Schools)
This district serves grades 7–12 and includes several schools that cater to students from the Saugus area. The district has been recognized for its excellence, ranking #29 out of 490 in Best School Districts in California according to Niche.
Here are some of the schools within this district:
Middle Schools
Rio Norte Junior High
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Sierra Vista Junior High
GreatSchools Rating: N/A
High Schools
West Ranch High School
GreatSchools Rating: 10/10
Niche Rating: A+
Saugus High School
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Niche Rating: A
Valencia High School
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Niche Rating: A
Hart High School
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Niche Rating: A
Golden Valley High
GreatSchools Rating: 7/10
Niche Rating: A
Canyon High School
GreatSchools Rating: 7/10
Niche Rating: A
These schools offer a variety of programs and have been recognized for their academic achievements and extracurricular offerings.
Healthcare
As for healthcare, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital is just minutes away in Valencia, and urgent care clinics are scattered throughout the neighborhood for easy access.
Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital is a 357-bed, not-for-profit community hospital and Level II trauma center. Established in 1975, the hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, maternity services, cancer care, cardiovascular services, and advanced stroke treatment. It features specialized facilities such as a neonatal intensive care unit, an infusion center, and the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Center. The hospital is recognized as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center and a STEMI Receiving Center, reflecting its commitment to high-quality, specialized care.
Real Estate Snapshot
The Saugus housing market is stable and steadily growing. You'll find everything from charming starter homes to larger two-story houses with big backyards.
Saugus Real Estate Market Overview (as of April 2025)
Median Sale Price: $805,000, reflecting a 3.2% increase year-over-year.
Average Home Value: Approximately $836,662.
Median Price per Square Foot: $465, a decrease of 7.2% from the previous year.
Average Days on Market: Homes typically sell after 40 days, up from 28 days the previous year.
Housing Types in Saugus
Saugus offers a diverse range of housing options to accommodate various preferences and budgets:
Single-Family Homes: The predominant housing type in the area, offering spacious layouts suitable for families. About 70% of the homes in Saugus are considered single family homes.
Townhomes: A variety of townhomes are available, providing a balance between space and affordability.
Condominiums: Numerous condos are on the market, appealing to first-time buyers and those seeking lower-maintenance living.
Saugus, a neighborhood within Santa Clarita, is characterized by its well-established and thoughtfully designed planned communities.
Prominent planned communities in Saugus include:
River Village: Developed between 2007 and 2021, this partially gated community comprises eight subdivisions offering a blend of condos, townhomes, and detached single-family residences. Homes range from approximately 1,355 to over 4,800 square feet, catering to diverse preferences. Residents enjoy amenities such as clubhouses, pools, and scenic trail systems.
Copper Hill North: Established from the mid-1980s to 2016, this community consists of 24 neighborhoods featuring single-family homes, condos, and townhomes. The area offers a mix of recreational amenities and scenic views, appealing to families and individuals alike.
Skyline: A newer development, Skyline offers miles of hiking trails, acres of natural open space, and a host of indoor and outdoor lifestyle amenities, making it an attractive option for those seeking a blend of nature and modern living.
These planned communities have been instrumental in shaping Saugus's residential landscape. Their development has provided a range of housing options, from affordable townhomes to expansive single-family homes, meeting the needs of a growing population. The inclusion of amenities such as parks, trails, and community centers has fostered a sense of community and enhanced the quality of life for residents. Additionally, the strategic planning of these communities has contributed to the area's appeal, making Saugus a desirable location for homebuyers seeking an all inclusive lifestyle.
Market Trends Over Recent Years
The Saugus real estate market has experienced steady growth:
2023 to 2024: Home values increased by approximately 1.6%.
2024 to 2025: A further increase of 3.2% in median sale prices was observed.
This upward trend indicates a healthy and appreciating market, making Saugus an attractive area for first time home buyers.
If you need more detailed information or assistance with specific aspects of the Saugus real estate market, feel free to ask!
Community Life & Local Favorites
Saugus may not have a flashy nightlife scene, but it makes up for it with family festivals, holiday events, and community sports leagues. People love the laid-back, neighborly atmosphere.
Residents often say what they love most is the sense of community, good schools, and peaceful streets. What they like least? Some wish there were more dining options or that public transit was stronger—but overall, there’s not much to complain about.
Outdoor Fun & Things to Do Nearby
One of Saugus’s biggest selling points is how close you are to incredible outdoor activities and local attractions:
William S. Hart Park & Museum – Tour the historic home of a silent film star, enjoy a picnic, or visit the petting zoo.
Santa Clara River Trail – A beautiful bike and walking trail perfect for fitness or leisure.
Central Park – Great for sports, playgrounds, and summer concerts under the stars.
MB2 Entertainment – Laser tag, arcade games, mini golf, and go-karts all in one spot!
Placerita Canyon Nature Center – A beautiful nature preserve with educational exhibits and hiking.
Saugus Speedway (Historical Site) – While it’s no longer active, it’s a slice of local racing history.
Tesoro Adobe Historic Park – Once home to actor Harry Carey, now a peaceful park with old Hollywood charm.
Atlas Obscura Spots – From quirky roadside attractions to hidden gems, Santa Clarita has its fair share of offbeat delights.
Vasquez Rocks – Epic hiking and filming location for countless movies and shows.
Six Flags Magic Mountain – Just 15 minutes away, this is one of the top thrill ride destinations in the country.
Gibbon Conservation Center – A one-of-a-kind sanctuary for rare and endangered gibbons.
The Saugus Café – Founded in 1887, this is L.A. County’s oldest restaurant. Presidents, actors, and generations of locals have all dined here.
Final Thoughts
Saugus is the kind of place that doesn’t scream for attention—but once you’re here, you get why people love it. It’s calm, welcoming, and full of heart, with just enough fun and adventure nearby to keep things interesting.
If you’re looking for a community where you can settle in, grow roots, and feel at home, Saugus just might be the perfect fit.