By 1915 4S Ranch had been obtained by the San Dieguito Mutual Water Company, a subsidiary of Santa Fe Railroad.

The San Diego Union of August 3, 1918 reported that W. J. Stowe of Los Angeles bought 3,000 acres of the ranch of the Eucalyptus Culture Company.

In 1928, Albert Smith built the Spanish mission style house on a ridge overlooking Lake Hodges.

[5] 4S Ranch is underlain by Jurassic Santiago Peak Volcanics, Tertiary Stadium conglomerate, and slope wash alluvium.

The land of 4S Ranch before development consisted of a variety of landforms ranging from nearly flat-lying mesas and gently rolling hills to rugged, steeply-sloping hillside terrain.

The 4S Ranch Village Center includes the area's only gas station, veterinary care, restaurants, salons, and a Starbucks.

[10] Route 880 (4S Ranch Express) debuted on March 30, 2009, providing service to Sorrento Valley/UTC During peak commute times via MTS.

Camino del Norte and Rancho Bernardo Road provide the primary access for the community, and lead east to Interstate 15.

4S Ranch is served by the San Diego County Sheriff's Office, with a substation located at 10282 Rancho Bernardo Road.

The 4S Ranch Library is located in 4S Commons Center and serves as a community hub, focused on their large population of children and teens.