Living in Auburn and Opelika: Pines Crossing or Saugahatchee Country Club for Your Golf Lifestyle?
Living in Auburn and living in Opelika both come with perks, but if you’re someone who plays golf, your choice of course shapes your entire daily rhythm. Buyers who move to Auburn or relocate to Auburn University often ask me: “Should I focus my home search near Pines Crossing in Auburn, or should I lean toward Saugahatchee Country Club in Opelika?”
This matters more than people realize. In 2025, home buyers want lifestyle-based living — not just bedrooms and bathrooms. They want a course they love, a commute that doesn’t drain them, and a weekend routine that feels right. And if you’re comparing Auburn real estate and Opelika real estate through the lens of golf, you’re already thinking smarter than most buyers.
This guide will help you understand each community, how each golf course fits into daily life, and which side of town aligns with your goals if you’re planning to move to Auburn or move to Opelika.
The Pines Crossing Experience: Auburn living with convenience and energy
Pines Crossing sits perfectly within the Auburn lifestyle. Its location makes life simple if you’re connected to Auburn University — whether you teach, work, research, or support campus activities. You’re minutes from neighborhoods featured on my Auburn subdivisions hub, Jordan-Hare Stadium, the City of Auburn, and Auburn Mall.
Golfers who choose Pines Crossing usually want:
• A short commute to Auburn University
• The ability to combine golf with football weekends
• Easy access to downtown, campus events, and dining
• A home base where Auburn energy is part of everyday living
If your perfect Saturday includes a tee time, brunch downtown, and a quick stop at Jordan-Hare Stadium for pictures or game day traditions, Pines Crossing fits beautifully into Auburn living.
Saugahatchee Country Club: Opelika’s classic, community-first golf life
Saugahatchee Country Club is the heart of Opelika’s golf lifestyle. It’s close to Opelika Tiger Town, popular Opelika neighborhoods, and Opelika City Schools, making it ideal for families who want a strong club community with social events, tennis, dining, and a course that feels established and welcoming.
Golfers who choose Saugahatchee often want:
• A tighter-knit club community
• A quieter lifestyle with more space
• Proximity to Tiger Town and Opelika amenities
• A traditional course with long-standing member culture
If you want that Opelika charm — friendly waves, a slower pace, and a club where everyone knows your name — Saugahatchee is going to feel like home.
Auburn vs. Opelika Lifestyle Breakdown
Here’s what most relocators want to know:
Commute
Pines Crossing is the winner if you’re working at Auburn University or want to be near campus.
Saugahatchee is perfect for Opelika professionals or those who prefer a quieter environment.
Weekend Vibes
Auburn: golf, football, campus activities, downtown Auburn.
Opelika: golf, Tiger Town, quiet neighborhoods, strong family-centered events.
Schools
• Auburn City Schools deliver top-rated programs and serve many Auburn subdivisions.
• Opelika City Schools offer established programs and a strong community presence.
Neighborhoods
Homes near Pines Crossing tend to be closer-in with quicker access to Auburn shopping and dining.
Homes near Saugahatchee offer space, mature trees, peace, and a classic Opelika feel.
Real Buyer Story
A couple relocating for Auburn University called me last spring. They wanted a short commute for one spouse but also a community where they could instantly feel connected. They toured both courses. They loved both. But when they stepped foot at Pines Crossing and realized they could golf on Saturday and still walk to campus for events, the choice was made.
On the flip side, another family told me, “We’re Saugahatchee people.” They wanted quiet streets, bigger yards, and a club where their kids could grow up playing tennis and swimming in the summers. Opelika gave them exactly what they wanted.
Both choices are right — depending on who you are.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Pines Crossing (Auburn) | Saugahatchee (Opelika) |
|---|---|---|
| Lifestyle | Modern Auburn living | Classic Opelika charm |
| Best For | AU employees, walkable convenience | Families, long-term club community |
| Amenities | Downtown, Auburn Mall, campus | Tiger Town, Opelika neighborhoods |
| Vibe | Energetic, university-connected | Relaxed, community-rooted |
Quick Q&A
Q: Is living in Auburn better if I want to golf several times a week?
A: Pines Crossing is an excellent fit if you’re tied to Auburn University or Auburn’s central neighborhoods.
Q: Is Saugahatchee better for families?
A: Many families prefer Saugahatchee for its quieter Opelika lifestyle and member-focused culture.
Q: Can I work at Auburn University and still live near Saugahatchee?
A: Absolutely — lots of AU faculty choose Opelika for its space and easy access to Tiger Town.
Q: How do I find homes near both courses?
A: You can browse listings anytime on my site, AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com.
If you’re planning on living in Auburn or living in Opelika — and especially if golf is part of your life — I’d love to help you compare neighborhoods around Pines Crossing and Saugahatchee so you can find the perfect fit.
Laura Sellers is a top-rated REALTOR® based in Auburn, Alabama, serving home buyers and sellers throughout Auburn and Opelika. With deep roots in the community and decades of experience, Laura specializes in residential real estate, Auburn University faculty relocation, and helping clients transition smoothly—whether they’re moving across town or across the country. Learn more at AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com.
Call or text me anytime at 334-332-7263.
Homes, y’all!
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