Rossmoor’s Original Floor Plans & Fun Facts

I’m Yulia Anderson, a licensed Realtor and proud Rossmoor homeowner. I love living in this special community and helping others discover what makes it such a wonderful place to call home. Since 2014, I have helped homeowners, buyers, landlords, and investors navigate real estate with friendly communication, hands-on service, practical guidance, and a personal approach.

Rossmoor was developed between 1955 and 1962, with its first residents moving into the community in 1957. Instead of building every home from the same plan, developer Ross Cortese offered 11 different base home models. Many models were also available in several named variations, giving buyers choices in layout, exterior design, and architectural character. These variations are shown under the main base model name in the following floor plans. Houses were priced between $17,000 and $25,000, depending on total square footage, bedroom count, and architectural features.

A Community Takes Shape

Rossmoor was developed between 1955 and 1962 by Ross Cortese. His vision helped shape the distinctive, close-knit residential community Rossmoor is known for today. Rossmoor’s strong community spirit is celebrated throughout the year with Family Festivals and Movies in the Park at Rush Park, along with favorite traditions such as the Graduation Parade, Garden Tour, and the Christmas Lights Celebration.

More Than Eleven Choices

Although there were 11 base models, buyers could choose from numerous planned variations. Some original homeowners also customized their homes, helping create the variety seen throughout Rossmoor today.

Rossmoor Is Not a City

Rossmoor remains an unincorporated community within Orange County. It does not have a mayor or city council, although the elected Rossmoor Community Services District manages several important local services.

An Urban Forest

Rossmoor’s parks and residential parkways contain more than 5,000 trees. The Community Services District estimates that this urban forest has a value exceeding $16 million

A Park With a Schoolhouse Past

Rush Park occupies the former site of Benjamin Rush Elementary School. Rossmoor residents approved the purchase of the property, and the former school grounds were converted into the community park and facilities enjoyed today.

What’s in a Name?

Local history credits the name “Rossmoor” to developer Ross Cortese’s first name combined with the area’s flat, moor-like terrain. Another version notes that portions of the land were once marshy enough for duck hunting.

Big Plans for Orange County

With approximately 3,500 homes planned, Rossmoor was the largest residential community of its kind yet built in Orange County at the time.

A Brush With Hollywood

The distinctive Parasol building at the nearby Rossmoor Shopping Center opened in 1967. This landmark appeared in the 1973 movie American Graffiti and survives today. It is currently occupied by Panera Bread.

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The Wall Around Rossmoor

Rossmoor is easy to recognize by the signature red brick wall surrounding much of the community. The wall has become one of Rossmoor’s most recognizable visual landmarks.

Highly Rated Schools from Elementary Through High School

4 Los Alamitos Unified elementary schools are located within Rossmoor: Hopkinson, Lee, Rossmoor, and Weaver. All 4 currently have GreatSchools ratings of 8 out of 10 or higher. Rossmoor students continue to Oak or McAuliffe Middle School, both located in neighboring Los Alamitos. Both were named 2024 California Distinguished Schools. Students then attend Los Alamitos High School. The school currently holds a 10 out of 10 GreatSchools rating. The district has ranked among Orange County’s top two districts on state assessments for more than 20 years.

A Collegiate Community

Rossmoor was developed in nine sections, each reportedly named after a famous college. We are continuing to research the original section names and boundaries. The academic theme also appeared in original home plan names.