Disney launches first-ever luxe residential community in California desert

Disney is turning the dream of living in a magical world into reality.

The entertainment giant is unveiling its first-ever residential community, Cotino, a sprawling desert enclave in Rancho Mirage, California, near Palm Springs.

Cotino is part of Disney’s new Storyliving initiative, which will feature nearly 2,000 homes ranging from upscale condos to luxurious villa estates.

Prices are set to start at $1 million and will soar past $2 million for the most lavish properties.

The homes will cater to a variety of buyers, including those 55 and older. Disney has already announced a second Storyliving development near Raleigh, North Carolina, with more locations being scouted.

Situated on 618 acres, Cotino will offer more than just homes. The community will boast a 24-acre lagoon with water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, a beachfront hotel and a bustling district filled with dining, shopping and entertainment options.

The entire project is a nod to Disney’s signature flair for detail and immersive experiences, which the company says will be at the core of life in Cotino.

“These planned neighborhoods are intended to inspire residents to foster new friendships, pursue their interests, and write the next exciting chapter in their lives — all while enjoying the attention to detail, unique amenities, and special touches that are Disney hallmarks,” the company said in a statement when Storyliving was first announced in 2022.

And Disney isn’t stopping at just building the homes.

The company’s famous cast members, who are known for their customer service at its theme parks, will also be running Cotino’s community association, ensuring that residents experience Disney-level hospitality every day.

However, like all things Disney, the best perks will come at a cost.

Residents can opt into the Artisan Club, which grants access to a private clubhouse offering fitness classes, pickleball courts, a members-only beach and exclusive Disney-themed events, such as wellness seminars and live performances.

Three model homes, which were recently completed, will open to the public for tours in November. These homes, built by Shea Homes, reflect Disney’s meticulous design sensibilities.

The “Melodia” model is a 2,935-square-foot, one-story home that offers three bedrooms, 3½ baths and a large kitchen with a walk-in pantry.

The design, influenced by Disney’s “101 Dalmatians,” features neutral tones with sharp black accents. There’s also a flexible space that could serve as a home office or hobby room.

“Moderne,” another model in the 55-plus community of Longtable Park, is a two-story, 2,821-square-foot property. It includes two bedrooms, two full baths and two half-baths, with an open floor plan that connects living, dining, and cooking spaces.

The interior design takes its cues from Disneyland’s Adventureland, incorporating earthy tones and textures that evoke nature.

“Atelier II” is the third model, also designed for senior living. It offers 2,275 square feet of space in a modern glass-and-metal structure. Bright, bold colors throughout the home pay homage to Disneyland’s 1960s-era poster art. A wraparound outdoor living space extends from the primary bedroom and great room, ideal for outdoor relaxation.

With Cotino, Disney is hoping to lure lifelong fans with the promise of living out their golden years in a Disney-themed community, complete with all the company’s signature amenities.

And while the closest theme park may be two hours away in Anaheim, the company is banking on its iconic brand to attract Mouse House devotees to its newest venture in the California desert.

Disney previously dabbled in creating a town from scratch with Celebration, Florida, founded in 1996 and located about 20 miles outside of Orlando. It includes a retirement community called Windsor.

Residents say that while it started as slow-paced locale, it has since become a tourist trap.

“There’s not as much neighborhood kind of involvement or cohesiveness anymore,” longtime local Jim Siegal told the Orlando Sentinel in January 2022. “If I can put it bluntly, the town is overrun by tourists … and by people in the surrounding area looking for something to do.”