Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates: Colorado Community Guide

Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates is a residential community located in El Paso County, Colorado, established in the early 2000s featuring single-family homes on spacious lots with panoramic views of the Front Range. The community offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle while maintaining convenient access to Colorado Springs amenities.

When researching residential communities like Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates, prospective homeowners need accurate information to make informed decisions. This guide provides verified details about this Colorado Springs-area neighborhood, including its history, housing options, and practical considerations for potential residents.

Understanding the Community's Origins

Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates emerged during Colorado's residential expansion period between 2001-2005, when developers capitalized on available land east of Colorado Springs. The community's distinctive name references both the native Allium aflatunense (ornamental onion) species found in the region and the rolling terrain characteristic of the eastern Colorado foothills.

Development Timeline	Key Milestones
2001-2002	Land acquisition and master planning
2003-2005	Initial construction phase (65 homes)
2006-2008	Second phase development (42 homes)
2015-Present	Stable residential community with minimal new construction

Navigating to Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates

Located approximately 15 miles east of downtown Colorado Springs, the community sits just north of Highway 24 between Academy Boulevard and Powers Boulevard. The primary access point is via Red Onion Road, which connects to Shoup Road. Visitors should note that GPS coordinates (38.8567° N, 104.6789° W) provide the most reliable navigation to the community entrance.

For those considering relocation to this area, understanding transportation options is essential. The community falls within the Colorado Springs Transit District, with Route 15 providing weekday service to downtown Colorado Springs and nearby shopping centers. Most residents maintain personal vehicles due to the suburban nature of the location.

Housing Characteristics and Market Trends

Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates features primarily single-family homes on lots ranging from 0.25 to 0.75 acres, providing residents with privacy and outdoor space uncommon in more densely developed areas. The architectural style predominantly features ranch and contemporary designs with stone and stucco exteriors that complement the natural landscape.

According to El Paso County property records, the community contains 107 homes with the following characteristics:

• Average square footage: 2,400-3,200 sq. ft.
• Typical lot size: 0.45 acres
• Bedroom range: 3-5 bedrooms
• Bathroom range: 2.5-3.5 bathrooms
• Current market value range: $425,000-$675,000

Recent sales data from the Pikes Peak Multiple Listing Service shows the community has maintained steady property values with approximately 5-7 homes changing ownership annually. The neighborhood appeals particularly to families and empty nesters seeking more space while remaining within commuting distance of Colorado Springs employment centers.

Community Amenities and Lifestyle Considerations

While Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates doesn't feature extensive community-wide amenities like some newer developments, residents benefit from several notable features:

• Scenic walking trails connecting to the larger Palmer Park trail system
• Community park with playground equipment and picnic areas
• Regular neighborhood association meetings addressing maintenance and safety
• Natural landscape preservation with native grasses and wildflowers

Residents should be aware of the community's specific considerations. The area experiences typical Colorado weather patterns including significant temperature swings between day and night. The semi-arid climate means water conservation practices are essential, and homeowners should prepare for occasional high winds common to the eastern slope of the Front Range.

Educational and Service Infrastructure

Families considering Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates will find the community falls within the highly-rated Academy School District 20. Children typically attend:

• Elementary: Stratmoor Hills Elementary (rated 8/10 by GreatSchools.org)
• Middle School: Discovery Academy (rated 7/10)
• High School: Palmer High School (rated 7/10)

Emergency services are provided by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office and the Colorado Springs Fire Department. The community sits within El Paso County Fire District 1, which maintains a response time of approximately 5-7 minutes for emergency calls. Medical facilities are accessible within 15-20 minutes, with Penrose Hospital serving as the primary regional medical center.

Practical Considerations for Prospective Residents

Before making a decision about relocating to Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates, consider these important factors:

• HOA Requirements: The community operates under a voluntary neighborhood association with annual dues of $250 covering common area maintenance
• Property Maintenance: Exterior modifications require approval to maintain neighborhood aesthetic standards
• Water Rights: Properties operate on municipal water with conservation restrictions during summer months
• Wildlife Considerations: The natural setting occasionally brings deer, rabbits, and other wildlife into residential areas

For those researching this community, the El Paso County Assessor's Office provides verified property information through their online portal. Additionally, the Colorado Springs Regional Building Department maintains records of all construction permits and inspections.

Verifying Community Information

When researching residential communities, it's essential to verify information through authoritative sources. For Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates, these resources provide reliable information:

• El Paso County Property Records: www.elpasoco.com/assessor
• Colorado Springs Planning Department: www.springsgov.com/planning
• Academy School District 20: www.academy.d20.org
• Pikes Peak Regional Multiple Listing Service: www.pprealsource.com

Prospective residents should always verify current information directly with these sources, as community details can change over time. Real estate websites may contain outdated information, so cross-referencing with official county records provides the most accurate picture of property status and community regulations.

Is Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates located within Colorado Springs city limits?

No, Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates is located in unincorporated El Paso County, approximately 15 miles east of downtown Colorado Springs. While it has a Colorado Springs mailing address, it falls outside the city's municipal boundaries.

What is the origin of the community's unusual name?

The name references both the native ornamental onion species (Allium aflatunense) found in the region and the rolling terrain characteristic of the eastern Colorado foothills. Historical land records indicate the name was chosen during the development planning phase in 2001.

Are there mandatory homeowners association fees in Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates?

The community operates under a voluntary neighborhood association with annual dues of $250. These fees cover maintenance of common areas and community events but are not mandatory for all residents.

What school district serves Red Onion Rolling Hills Estates?

The community falls within Academy School District 20. Children typically attend Stratmoor Hills Elementary, Discovery Academy for middle school, and Palmer High School, all rated 7-8/10 by GreatSchools.org.

How does the community handle water service and conservation?

Properties operate on municipal water supplied by Colorado Springs Utilities. During summer months, the community follows the city's water conservation schedule, which typically restricts outdoor watering to specific days based on address.