Rancho Santa Margarita is a city located in Orange County, California. It was incorporated in 2000 and is one of the newest cities in the county. The city is known for its picturesque landscape, with rolling hills, canyons, and a man-made lake called Lago Santa Margarita. The city's name is derived from the Spanish word for "Ranch of Saint Margaret," which is a reference to the Rancho Santa Margarita y Las Flores land grant that was given to the O'Neill family in the 19th century.

While Rancho Santa Margarita is primarily a residential community, it is also home to several businesses and commercial centers. The city has a strong economy, with industries such as technology, healthcare, and retail contributing to its growth. The city's location in Orange County also makes it a hub for freight transportation. It is served by major highways such as Interstate 5 and State Route 241, which provide convenient access to other cities in the region. The nearby John Wayne Airport and the Port of Long Beach also play a significant role in facilitating the movement of goods and cargo in and out of Rancho Santa Margarita.