Ever wonder how celebrities stay out of the public eye for months on end, escaping hoards of paparazzi and screaming fans? The answer lies in the country’s most exclusive gated communities.
These gated communities implement tons of security and are havens of luxury and privacy for some of the world’s wealthiest individuals, shielding them from prying eyes.
From Los Angeles to Palm Beach, these communities feature sophisticated security measures to prevent intruders from entering their borders. Many employ 24/7 armed guards and high-tech surveillance systems that monitor activities inside and out – no one can enter or leave without permission.
Other safety measures include advanced visitor management software, alarm systems, license plate recognition technology, guardhouses at each entrance point, private access roads with access controlled points, and even restricted airspace over the properties!
Let’s go on a journey through some of the most exclusive gated communities in the United States.
California
Where else would we start than the bright lights of Hollywood? A-listers, billionaires, and tech moguls flock to the most exclusive gated communities in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills for their privacy.
Multi-million dollar mansions are familiar sights here, guarded by security personnel and monitored by advanced surveillance systems with facial recognition technology.
North and South Beverly Park, Beverly Hills
You don’t walk around Beverly Park. Not only is it hidden deep inside the hills of Beverly Hills, but it is also a gated community with 24/7 security and surveillance. It doesn’t even have sidewalks!
The neighborhood features two exclusive enclaves: North and South Beverly Park. Homes range from Mediterranean-style villas to ultra-modern mansions — each one designed for maximum privacy and security.
A quick look at some of the prices reveals numbers like $48 million, with homes upwards of 20,000 square feet. In 2021, Sylvester Stallone listed his massive estate for $110 million as he moved across the country to Palm Beach. The realtor’s comment at the time? “Even the garage has a great view.”
Estates at The Oaks, Calabasas
Want to be neighbors with Dr. Dre? You’ll have to head to The Oaks, home to some of the most influential people in the entertainment industry.
But hidden within The Oaks is an even more exclusive gated community — Estates of the Oaks. This area is considered one of the most secure neighborhoods in all of Los Angeles and is behind a second gate only accessible to residents.
Security is tight, and the surveillance system features facial recognition technology and license plate readers that can detect suspicious activity or unfamiliar cars entering the property. Families residing here have access to the exclusive Viewpoint School, which has educated the children of a wide variety of stars, from Donald Trump to Tom Cruise.
Newport Coast, Newport Beach
The Newport Coast is filled with gated communities, most notably Pelican Crest, which received plenty of focus as the home of the late Kobe Bryant.
The neighborhood features some of the most impressive security measures in the area, with 24/7 armed guards operating several checkpoints that restrict access to residents. Pelican Hill, the massive resort nearby, always has a celebrity or two enjoying its amenities, which is an excellent reminder of how exclusive the area is.
Crystal Cove, Newport Beach
Nearby Crystal Cove includes gated and non-gated options for its residents. Those who opt for the gated community can find mansions with price tags of more than $15 million, though many homes can be more reasonably priced.
Alongside many of the usual amenities is the unique feature of Crystal Cove State Park in your backyard, which includes miles of coastline and thousands of acres of canyons to explore.
Emerald Bay, Laguna Beach
On the other side of that park is Emerald Bay, where you might have run into astronaut Buzz Aldrin a few years ago. Now, the area is loaded with tech millionaires, entrepreneurs, and CEOs.
The billionaire Fertitta siblings (former owners of the UFC) purchased a home in Emerald Bay for over $43 million, and it wasn’t their first in the area.
There is an online process for creating guest passes, but general visitors are restricted from entering the area. The community association is also very strict about construction and remodeling projects, with full approval required for any changes.
Holmby Hills, Los Angeles
It’s not just the Playboy Mansion that makes Holmby Hills famous. The area – a Los Angeles and Hollywood institution – has housed everyone from Clark Gable to Jeremy Renner. In 2020, Kylie Jenner bought a $36.5 million mansion (that really could be called a compound) in the exclusive gated neighborhood.
But nothing compares to The Manor, an iconic castle-like mansion owned by Bing Crosby, Aaron Spelling, and others over the years. The 123-room estate hit the market for $165 million in 2022.
The Manor is well known for its high level of security — the entire perimeter is surrounded by a tall brick wall with an electronically operated gate. Inside, a fully staffed security detail keeps watch on the property 24/7, and sophisticated surveillance systems are in place to monitor activity inside and outside.
Brentwood Country Estates, Los Angeles
Only 13 properties make up Brentwood Country Estates, a gated community on the Lower Mandeville Canyon in Los Angeles.
This ultra-exclusive neighborhood has housed some of the world’s most recognizable celebrities, like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tom Brady, and Gisele Bundchen.
Not every property is surrounded by a moat, like Brady and Bundchen’s mansion, but all are protected by a 24/7 security presence, advanced alarm systems, and CCTV surveillance.
Malibu Colony, Malibu
Malibu Colony is still one of the most exclusive gated communities in California and has been since the Golden Age of Hollywood. The area is known for its stunning ocean views and luxury homes, many of which have been featured in movies and TV shows like Entourage and Beverly Hills 90210.
Tom Hanks, Woody Harrelson, Bill Murray, and many other celebrities have called this exclusive gated community home. One of the most infamous celebrity parties in history, thrown by Jane Fonda, took place at a Malibu Colony property, and countless others have been held there since.
The community has a private beach, and entry to the enclave is gated and guarded.
Nevada
It’s not just the rolling hills of Hollywood, though. Las Vegas might be known for its glitz and glam, but its most exclusive gated communities are incredibly secure.
The Ridges at Summerlin, Las Vegas
With two 24-hour guarded entrances, The Ridges consists of 14 gated neighborhoods offering the utmost luxury and privacy. There’s something for everyone with homes from 4,000-14,000 square feet.
Plus, with its private golf course and exquisite landscaping, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most sought-after gated communities in Las Vegas.
Tournament Hills, Las Vegas
The Tournament Hills gated community provides the perfect escape for those who jet-set worldwide. The airport is just a few minutes away, allowing athletes, celebrities, and business professionals to quickly get in and out of town.
24-hour guardhouses secure the gated community, and security cameras watch over all the public amenities. With only 130 homes, many of them filled with members of the Vegas Golden Knights and Las Vegas Raiders, Tournament Hills is one of the most exclusive gated communities in town.
The Summit Club, Las Vegas
Mark Wahlberg on one side, Celine Dion on the other. The Summit Club is an ultra-exclusive gated community located on the edge of Red Rock Canyon.
The property features 24-hour guard service and a state-of-the-art security system that monitors all activities within the gates. Plus, with its private tennis courts and golf course, it’s no wonder why this is one of Las Vegas’s most sought-after communities.
In 2022, the SkySummit went on the market for nearly $24 million. It offers nearly 9,000 square feet of luxury living and views of the Las Vegas Valley.
Arizona
Arizona’s world-renowned golf courses, sunny weather, and stunning mountain views make it no wonder the state is home to some of the most exclusive gated communities in the US.
Silverleaf, Scottsdale
We start our tour in Silverleaf, a community at the base of the McDowell Mountains that features European-style estates, beautiful rural landscapes, and amenities like spas and fine dining restaurants. This isn’t the rowdy party atmosphere of Las Vegas but a tranquil oasis where you can unwind and relax in complete privacy.
The average list price of a home in Silverleaf is $5.2 million, proving that this is one of the most exclusive gated communities in the US.
DC Ranch, Scottsdale
Not far away is DC Ranch, a mix of smaller gated and non-gated communities that blend to form one more extensive area.
The homes here are some of the most luxurious in the state, with many featuring Tuscan-style villas and sprawling estates. And with its private golf course and nearby shopping center, DC Ranch offers residents a unique blend of privacy and convenience.
Seven at Desert Mountain, Scottsdale
With manned security gates protecting this new development, you don’t have to worry about anyone barging into your home uninvited. Seven at Desert Mountain is a private, gated community with luxury homes built by contemporary architects.
The area offers some of the best golf courses in the nation and stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape, with mountains towering in the distance.
The Village, one of Seven’s newest developments, is a cluster of modern homes with ample outdoor living space and high-end finishes wrapped around the unique 18-hole, par-54 short course.
Florida
Over on the Atlantic, Florida is home to some of the most famous and exclusive gated communities in the US. Celebrities, politicians, and business moguls flock to these sunny shores for privacy and luxury.
Royal Palm, Boca Raton
Established more than 60 years ago, this exclusive gated community is located in Boca Raton and features some of the most luxurious homes in the state. Royal Palms’ sprawling estates are surrounded by lush green gardens, pristine beaches, and a private golf course – all guarded by 24-hour security personnel.
Yacht club members also have access to the community’s private marina, as well as a host of other amenities.
The Sanctuary, Boca Rato
Speaking of yachting, The Sanctuary is one of the most exclusive gated communities in South Florida. Located on a private island off the coast of Boca Raton, the community comprises Mediterranean-style mansions and waterfront homes with access to a 20-slip marina and deep-water dockage. They even have boat patrol to make sure the area remains secure.
There are 97 estates, and prices can range from just over $1 million to well over $15 million, depending on the size and location of the property. Executives, investors, and CEOs from around the world flock to this luxurious community for its seclusion and privacy.
Star Island, Miami Beach
You only get a name like Star Island if you offer something unique. International superstar residents like Jennifer Lopez, Sean Combs, and – most famously – Gloria and Emilio Estefan have called this exclusive gated community home.
Located in Miami Beach, this man-made island is one of the most secure gated communities in the US. Its homes are equipped with top-of-the-line security systems and cameras that monitor activity both inside and outside the properties.
The single road on and off the island offers a perfect barrier to prying eyes and unwanted visitors.
Hammock Lakes, Coral Gables
A trip to Florida wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the lavish lifestyle of CoralGables. Hammock Lakes is an exclusive gated community near Miami, with luxury homes and condos situated around a crystal-clear lake.
With 94 homes, some of them stretching over 10,000 square feet, the community is surrounded by a wall and has gates guarded around the clock. Visitors are checked at the entry points and there is surveillance to ensure total privacy.
Other gated communities
All across the country there are other hidden gems, from Hawaii to New York, Wyoming to Georgia. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most exclusive gated communities with security guards, high-tech surveillance systems, and more.
Tuxedo Park, New York
It’s not bombastic properties or massive compounds that make Tuxedo Park one of the most exclusive gated communities in the world – it’s the history. Developed in the 1800s, a tiny village rests in the Ramapo mountains and is filled with generational wealth.
Homes here are built on large plots of land and feature distinct gothic-style architecture. They are naturally secluded, but gated entrances and 24-hour security guards restrict visitors.
Some houses have never come up for sale, while others hit the market more than 100 years after they were built.
Maluhia, Wailea, Hawaii
Maluhia is Wailea’s only gated, beachfront, single-family community and is a paradise for the high-end traveler. It’s located on the celebrated Makena Coast and provides exclusive access to some of Maui’s best beaches.
There are only 14 lots in the entire development, which slopes down from the gated entrance, adding even more privacy from passersby. With only one road that leads in and out, the security of this exclusive gated community is top-notch.
Indian Springs Ranch, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
More than 1,200 acres of freedom can be found here, with a gated entrance that offers unparalleled privacy and security. The mountain views are spectacular, and the homes are large and luxurious.
Plus, living in this exclusive gated community grants access to some of Wyoming’s best skiing, fishing, and biking trails – all while being guarded by private 24-hour security personnel.
This isn’t the Hollywood lifestyle, but with just 47 properties spanning the entire 1,200-acre ranch, it’s easy to see why Indian Springs Ranch is sought after by wealthy families looking for a little peace and quiet.
Conyers Farm, Greenwich, Connecticut
Once ranked as the #1 most exclusive gated community in the United States, this peaceful, rural setting offers breathtaking views while still being within commuting distance from New York.
With gatehouses that only let in authorized personnel and two-way communications systems, security is top-notch. And, with homes selling for upwards of $20 million, Conyers Farm is definitely one of the most luxurious gated communities in the US
Final thoughts
Whether you’re looking for seclusion or just a little extra protection from prying eyes, these exclusive gated communities offer some of the best in sophisticated security systems and luxurious living that money can buy.
From Hawaii to Connecticut, and everywhere in between, there’s something for everyone who desires total privacy – and peace of mind knowing their family is safe.