Rancho Penasquitos is a master-planned community within the City of San Diego. Located south of Rancho Bernardo, west of I-15 and north of the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, Rancho Penasquitos residents appreciate its easy access to the rest of the county.  The area is approximately 10,000 acres including Black Mountain Regional Park with 51 percent designated for residential development; 34 percent is designated for parks and open space; two percent is designated for commercial space.  Black Mountain is the area's most visible landmark, rising to 1,500 feet above the region. The hills and canyons separate the area from the rest of the city and make it seem more countrylike than urban.

Homes are built on the mesas and hills and the majority are typical middle class suburban homes although some custom homes do exist in the area.  Many homes have views. There are a few condominiums and townhomes. The neighborhoods are quiet, well-maintained  with many families with kids. 

The Poway Unified School System, one of the best in San Diego County, provides the education for the area.  Sports leagues and recreational activities are numerous and well-attended.  At one point, Rancho Penasquitos has the largest Little League in the country.  While there is not a lot of commercial development in the area, there are several small shopping areas that provide services.  Residents are within easy striking distance of Mira Mesa Boulevard and Carmel Mountain shopping areas.

SR-56 bisects the area and will provide residents with easy access to the coast and reduce congestion on surface streets when it opens in 2005