Rossmoor Real Estate

Licensed Real Estate Agent

55+ YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

From Leisure World to Rossmoor Walnut Creek


 
Since 1964, Rossmoor has evolved from a visionary concept into one of the nation’s premier active adult communities. What began as Ross Cortese’s ambitious dream has grown into a thriving independent senior living community offering an exceptional lifestyle in the heart of the Bay Area.

A Dream Realized in 1960


Rossmoor began with an innovative dream: to create a country club atmosphere with a price tag that middle-class seniors could afford. Developer Ross Cortese purchased the 2,200-acre estate belonging to the prestigious Dollar family, founders of the Dollar Steamship Lines.
 
Cortese saw beyond the family’s summer home and pastoral land. He envisioned a place where active adults could write their next chapters surrounded by natural beauty, modern amenities, and a low-maintenance lifestyle.

 
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Ross Cortese
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Robert Stanley Dollar

Groundbreaking Approval in 1963


In a landmark decision, the Walnut Creek City Council rezoned the property for senior housing development, establishing the community as one of the nation’s first master-planned active adult communities.
 
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Our Journey Began in 1964


Construction for the homes and first clubhouse began reshaping the landscape of Tice Valley in 1964 for what was then called Rossmoor Leisure World of Walnut Creek. The first 3,300 manors built were all cooperatives.
 
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HISTORY TIMELINE

1960–1962

The Vision Forms
Ross Cortese identifies the Dollar estate as the perfect location for his revolutionary senior living concept in the Bay Area.

 
  • 1963

Historic Rezoning
Contra Costa County approves rezoning for senior housing, initially planned for 10,000 units and later refined to preserve open space.
 

  • 1964
     

Grand Opening
First residents move into Leisure World Walnut Creek, which opened with HUD-approved cooperative housing for seniors.

 

  • 1969

Transition & Growth
Under new developers Terra California, UDC Homes, and Shea Homes, significantly different styles of homes replace the original co-ops.
 

Our History in Photographs

Explore historic photographs that capture the spirit of Rossmoor's remarkable journey.
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A Remarkable Legacy That Surpasses the Original Vision


Ross Cortese dreamed big when he founded Rossmoor Leisure World of Walnut Creek in 1964, but today’s Rossmoor exceeds even his boldest vision.

From world-class amenities and vibrant resident life to beautifully maintained grounds and strong financial stewardship, Rossmoor has become something uniquely its own.

Here, active adults don't simply live—they thrive. Residents discover new passions, forge lasting friendships, and embrace opportunities to make the most of their best years.





            10,000                                    6,676                                            55+
HAPPY RESIDENTS         BEAUTIFUL  MANORS            YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

 
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Discover the Rossmoor Lifestyle


Explore Rossmoor Walnut Creek and discover a community where active adults can enjoy exceptional amenities, meaningful connections, and a vibrant lifestyle.
 
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