$343,816Average Value$199Average Price per Sq Ft95Homes For Sale
The hidden roots of Rita Ranch
Is it true that Howard Hughes named Rita Ranch — a master-planned community 20 miles south of Tucson — after Rita Hayworth? While the eccentric billionaire owned this swath of Arizona land at one time, most local historians dismiss this as an unfounded rumor. Some say the master-planned community takes its name from a nearby train depot, while others believe a Realtor named it after a family friend. In any event, the story lends an air of glamour to the residential area, wedged between Interstate 10 and the Rincon Mountains. Since Rita Ranch is so close to the highway, getting in and out of Tucson is a breeze. “The traffic can get rough down in Vail,” says Jennifer Smith, Realtor with Realty Executives, “but Rita Ranch has more ways to get in and out.”
Rita Ranch is defined by Rita Road, which splits the community in half.
Interstate 10 is quickly accessible to Rita Ranch residents, only minutes away.
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Modern builds in the Spanish Revival style
Most houses in Rita Ranch feature a Spanish Revival design, although they were built within the last 25 years. There are tan stucco walls and gently sloping tiled roofs around every corner. Many homes are single-story with 3 to 4 bedrooms, and some offer views of the Rincon Mountains in the distance. Short, paved driveways and attached garages are standard, but it’s not unusual to see a lot of cars parked along the two-lane residential streets. The lots typically measure a quarter acre or less, which means the homes are grouped close together. While trees and shrubbery enliven the streets, and some properties include fences, there’s not much privacy among neighbors in Rita Ranch. Some smaller homes sell in the upper $200,000 range, while new builds can cost as much as $500,000. “You can get more house for your money here than in Vail,” Smith says. “The taxes are lower, too.”
Rita Ranch homes are typically made out of stucco and beige in color.
Driveways that can fit at least two cars are standard in Rita Ranch.
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Skating and splashing at Purple Heart Park
Families head to Purple Heart Park when they want to get some fresh air. The space spans 37 acres and includes a skate park, playground, baseball field, swimming pool and splash pad. There’s also plenty of open space for kite flying, playing tag or relaxing with a book. Ivan’s Spot Dog Park is also onsite and features a concrete walking path, shaded pavilions and dog-friendly drinking fountains. Hikers should check out the Rincon Mountain Wilderness Area east of Rita Ranch, where they can crest Rincon Peak or Mica Mountain for some of the most unforgettable vistas around Tucson.
Ivan's Spot Dog Park has plenty of shade for pups of all sizes.
Every summer, kids enjoy the cool water at the splash pad at Purple Heart Park in Rita Ranch.
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Vail School District’s grade-A reputation
According to Smith, many families move to Rita Ranch because it’s part of the Vail Unified School District, one of Arizona’s top-performing districts. “It’s not quite as far out as Vail, but the kids go to the same school,” Smith says. Students can start at Desert Willow Elementary on Esmond Loop before moving on to Desert Sky Middle School on East Rita Road. Vail Academy and High School is also nearby and allows students to attend from kindergarten through 12th grade. All these schools get an A from Niche. Vail Academy High students can join the BoxerBots, a robotics team that joins forces with Mica Mountain High School students. “BoxerBots is a newer program,” says Smith, who grew up in the area. “They’ve started a lot of new teams and events since I was in school there.”
Cottonwood Elementary is an A+ rated school in Rita Ranch.
Desert Sky Middle School serves grades 6-8 in Rita Ranch.
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The Shoppes at Rita Ranch
Folks who enjoy the fare at fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Panda Express will find tons of options in Rita Ranch. One local hot spot is Rancho Rustico in Houghton Town Center, serving tacos, fajitas and other Mexican favorites. The Shoppes at Rita Ranch shopping mall includes a Fry’s Supermarket for the basics.
Fry's serves the Rita Ranch area with a super store.
Sizzling fajitas are the house specialty at Rancho Rustico in Rita Ranch.
Serial Grillers offers a variety of American food and craft beer on tap in Rita Ranch.
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Traveling into Tucson
Usually, the 20-mile drive from the heart of Rita Ranch to downtown Tucson takes about half an hour. Tucson International Airport is within 15 miles, but since it’s across the interstate, drivers should also plan on 30 minutes for that trip. Additionally, Tucson’s Sun Tran bus service has several stops in Rita Ranch.
Although less common than Midtown, Sun Tran busses do still serve Rita Ranch.
Rita Ranch residents can easily access Houghton Road, a main thorofare.
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Riding the Loop
The Loop, a system of bike paths that traverses 130 miles, has several access points in Rita Ranch. There’s also a trailhead for Fantasy Island, which offers adrenaline seekers an extreme mountain-biking experience. In April, the Pima County Fair arrives at the fairgrounds on South Houghton Road just a 15-minute drive away.
The Loop has over 130 miles of paved road for Rita Ranch residents to hop on.
The Pima County Fair is a cherished tradition every April for Rita Ranch residents.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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There are many great restaurants downtown and mostly chain restaurants closer to home.
5.0Current Resident
5/30/2019Niche Review
Very safe neighborhood with a lot of friendly neighbors. You feel safe within your neighborhood because not a lot happens here and plus all your neighbors are very aware. So it's safe and quiet. It's very comfortable.
3.0Niche User
6/12/2014Niche Review
We have some crime and graffiti issues, but they are not too bad.
4.0Niche User
6/12/2014Niche Review
The houses built in this area are pretty well built.
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Rita Ranch Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Rita Ranch, Tucson sell after 67 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Rita Ranch, Tucson over the last 12 months is $349,900, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This is it! Perfectly blending comfort and functionality, this charming single-story home is ready to move in and enjoy. Check out the welcoming living & dining room filled with abundant natural light, wood-look tile flooring, neutral paint, and vaulted ceilings that add to the spacious feel. Impeccable kitchen offers plenty of cabinetry with crown moulding, stainless steel appliances, granite
Stunning 4 bedroom 2.5 bath Vail home with 3 vast living spaces, open dining, incredible views and so much more!! The main floor has a large living room and family room, dining area, chef's kitchen and two pantries. The beautiful kitchen boasts plenty of cabinet and counter space, plus a gorgeous eat-in island. Upstairs is a spacious loft, along with the laundry room, primary suite and 3 generous
Welcome home to this popular ranch-style floor plan designed for easy living and entertaining. Paid-off solar panels help keep electric costs exceptionally low. The spacious kitchen opens to the great room and features an extra large island, upgraded maple cabinetry with espresso finish, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a professional-style faucet. Upgraded 18x18 ceramic tile
Seller will accept or counter offers between $300k and $325K. Fabulous 2 bedroom with large den, 2 full bath home in Rita Ranch and Vail School district. Vaulted ceiling in the living room. Kitchen has plenty of natural light and countertop space. Roll out kitchen cabinets. Large bay window in dining area and primary bedroom. Ceramic tile set on diagonal in all living areas, vaulted ceilings.
Thoughtfully positioned on an expansive homesite beneath Arizona's endless blue skies, this spacious single story residence offers a rare combination of comfort, functionality, and opportunity. From the moment you arrive, mature desert landscaping, a towering saguaro, and inviting curb appeal create a warm first impression that reflects the pride of ownership found throughout the
* Dual-sink vanity at primary bath * Walk-in closet at primary bedroom and bedroom 2 * Tankless water heater * Smart thermostat * WaterSense labeled faucets * Kitchen USB charging port * Front porch * Spacious great room * Walk-in kitchen pantry * Dedicated laundry room * Low-E windows * ENERGY STAR certified home * Great shopping nearby * Outdoor recreation nearby * Hiking trails nearby * Near
Welcome to this inviting home offering a bright, comfortable interior with modern finishes throughout. The functional layout provides a wonderful balance of style, space, and everyday convenience.Inside, you'll find a combination of carpet and tile flooring, neutral interior tones, and attractive light fixtures. The kitchen features granite countertops, ample workspace, dishwasher, range,
Great southeast home with 4 bedrooms, 2 baths. Ready for new tenants with freshly cleaned carpets, and fresh paint! Conveniently located near major employers. Monthly front yard maintenance included!One-Time Admin Fee: $300. Monthly Service Fee: 2% of monthly rent. Refundable Pet Deposit: $300/Pet, if applicable. Resident Benefits Package: $39/month. Helping Heroes Discount
This 3 bedroom/2 bath home in the much desired Vail School District is available now. As you enter you will notice the plantation shutters and custom touches. Kitchen has plenty of counter and cabinet space. Easy care tile and laminate floors. Neutral paint color throughout. Desert landscaping in front and back yards. Close to shopping and I-10.One-Time Admin Fee: $300. Monthly Service
$1,751 - $3,120 per month
Encantada Rita Ranch
1 - 3 Beds
1-2 Baths
893+ Sq Ft
Welcome home to Encantada Rita Ranch! Premier luxury apartment community located in the Rita Ranch area, offering you a 100% SMOKE FREE living environment. Families in our premier Rita Ranch location will reside in the highly rated Vail School District, which boasts a variety of top-ranked schools, from preschool to high school.Providing luxury lifestyle and convenience all in one location, with
You're certain to love the open and modern floor plan of this 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home with a charming two-story floor plan in Vail. Home opens to a large living/dining room with a large loft upstairs, great for entertaining! Kitchen granite countertops, an island and included stainless steel appliances! Ceiling fans and blinds throughout! Primary bedroom offers an ensuite bathroom with dual
Single story, 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in the Vail School District. The upgrades start in the kitchen with granite countertops, upper cabinet bank, built in drink cooler, pantry with French doors and recessed lighting. In the master bathroom a frameless glass style shower and next to it an amazing soaking tub along with Corian countertops and a huge walk-in closet. Out in the backyard, full
Live in this recently-constructed property located in the Mirador Point community. This pet-friendly house features an EV outlet, 2-car garage, fenced backyard, pocket office, open concept floorplan, luxury vinyl plank flooring, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and central heating/AC. Landscape maintenance is provided for an additional fee. This community is professionally owned
This amazing home shows like with, sleek granite counters, and neutral color palette. Upon entering, you'll notice the spacious formal living and dining area with plenty of natural light. Kitchen has tons of cabinet and counter space, breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and opens to family room with cozy fireplace. All bedrooms are good-sized and primary suite comes with walk-in closet,
Discover your DREAM HOME in the desirable Rita Ranch community with SOLAR!! This 3 bedroom 2 bath gem features a versatile flex bonus room that could be office, den, kids playroom or workout room. Modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counters and eat-in island and Custom Cabinets galore!Entertaining is easy in the spacious dinning/living room combo that boasts high
This property is professionally managed by AMH Living, a leading single-family rental company. We work to simplify your rental experience by offering self-guided tours and a streamlined leasing process you can complete all online, all on your own schedule. Once moved in, we provide maintenance support that you can rely on, so you can enjoy your weekends stress-free. We look forward to welcoming
Apply now or schedule your self-tour today and take the first step toward getting more than just a place to live. Rent with FirstKey Homes for a home that's right for you, plus professional service and maintenance, innovative resident programs, and more; that's the power of purple!This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rental home in Tucson, AZ, could be just what you’re looking for. The fenced
This property is professionally managed by AMH Living, a leading single-family rental company. We work to simplify your rental experience by offering self-guided tours and a streamlined leasing process you can complete all online, all on your own schedule. Once moved in, we provide maintenance support that you can rely on, so you can enjoy your weekends stress-free. We look forward to welcoming
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