// 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 that surpasses even his original vision, offering nearly 10,000 residents an unparalleled lifestyle in the heart of the Bay Area.
Home
Our Story
A dream realized in 1960
Rossmoor started with an innovative dream: to create a country club atmosphere but with a price tag that middle class seniors could afford. That vision led developer Ross Cortese to purchase 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 where they raised prize purebred Hereford cattle. He saw a place where once busy professionals who still wanted active and fulfilling lives could write their next chapters surrounded by natural beauty, modern amenities and a low-maintenance lifestyle.
Today, the Dollar family home still stands as a lovingly preserved testament to Rossmoor's past and a main clubhouse for the community's social activities.
Ross Cortese
Robert Stanley Dollar
Groundbreaking Approval in 1963
In a landmark decision, the Walnut Creek City Council rezoned the property for senior housing development, establishing it as one of the nation's first master-planned active adult communities.
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 co-ops.
// HISTORY
Our Journey Through Time
The Vision Forms
Ross Cortese identifies the Dollar estate as the perfect location for his revolutionary senior living concept in the Bay Area.
Historic Rezoning
Contra Costa County approves rezoning for senior housing, initially planned for 10,000 units, later refined to preserve open space.
Grand Opening
First residents move into Leisure World Walnut Creek, which opened with HUD-approved co-op housing for seniors.
Transition & Growth
Under new developers Terra California, UDC Homes and Shea Homes, significantly different styles of homes replace co-ops.
Steady Expansion
The community grows with new neighborhoods and amenities. Rossmoor drops Leisure World from its brand.
Modern Evolution
Major facility transformations bring a new gate, event center and fitness center and renovated clubhouses.
Still Going Strong
Nearly 10,000 call Rossmoor Walnut Creek home, making it the Bay Area's premier active adult community.
// GALLERY
Historic images. Photographs that capture the
spirit of our remarkable journey
// Our Legacy
A Remarkable Legacy That Surpasses the Original Vision Beyond All Expectations.
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, we've become something uniquely our own.
We're Rossmoor Walnut Creek, where active adults don't simply live, they thrive. Here, residents aren't retiring from life; they're advancing to their best years yet, discovering new passions, forging lasting friendships, and embracing every opportunity to grow.
10,000
HAPPY RESIDENTS
6,676
BEAUTIFUL MANORS
55+
YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
The real Rossmoor experience
felt in every moment, every connection
I love living in Rossmoor as it feels like I am living in a park with all the generous trees, plants, and wildlife — a small town within a larger city.
My participation in the Pickleball Club and the LGBTQ+ Alliance provides me with a wonderful, welcoming community of people I have grown to love, along with a chance to play a sport I am crazy about.
What a great place to practice aging!
Cynthia D.
Resident since 2023
We looked at about 6 or 7 senior communities in San Francisco as well as the East Bay and Rossmoor was far and away the nicest. The first time we came through the gate, the gate went up, we drove inside and the stress from the outside world just evaporated.
Robert S.
Resident since 2024
When I go on vacation, I look around, and wish I was back in Rossmoor.
Rossmoor has built-in, planned activities as we age. When younger and active, there’s tennis, pickleball, golf, and a gym. Too strenuous? There’s lawn bowling. Too far to throw the ball? There’s bocce ball. Too hot? We have four swimming pools. Bored? We have several clubhouses, hobby studios, a restaurant and bar, and over 180 clubs where you can find new friends. Also, San Francisco is next door.
Ken Andersen
Resident since 2009
Our love for Rossmoor just deepens with each year. When we first came at the age of 55, there was nothing that was beyond us. We could hike, we could bike, we could swim, we could be part of all the different clubs. What we love about it most now is waking up in this beautiful Tice Valley.
Tracy J.
Resident since 2011
Hear From Our Residents
Ready to Take the Next Step
Your journey to worry-free living at Rossmoor starts with four simple steps
1
Submit Request
Complete the request form and get connected with a real estate agent to learn more about Rossmoor
2
Find an Agent
Visit the Real Estate section to discover and connect with real estate agents who truly understand Rossmoor living
3
Tour Community
Tour the community, and if you're ready, view available homes with your real estate agent.
4
Purchase Home
Work with your real estate agent to purchase your home from the current owner