On Thursday, March 13, 2025, members of the Red Hawk Property Team—Cynthia Disney, Pati Juarez, and Jeanette Williams Davis, brokered by JLA Realty, attended an exclusive VIP Real Estate Roundup at River Ranch in Dayton, Texas. This event showcased the latest developments in this exciting master-planned community, which offers modern new homes, a variety of builders, and resort-style amenities just northeast of Houston.
If you’re searching for new construction homes in Dayton, TX, this guide covers everything you need to know about River Ranch, from home prices and floor plans to amenities, local attractions, taxes, and cost of living.
Why Choose River Ranch?
River Ranch in Dayton, Texas, is one of the fastest-growing master-planned communities in Liberty County, offering affordable new homes, a variety of floor plans, and top-tier amenities.
🏡 New homes starting from the high $200s to $500s.
🌳 Spacious homesites with modern floor plans.
🏖 Resort-style living with direct access to Angel Lagoon.
🚗 Easy commute to Houston via Hwy 99 (Grand Parkway).
Top Builders & Floor Plans in River Ranch
One of the standout features of River Ranch is its collaboration with 13 renowned builders, offering a wide range of home styles, lot sizes, and price points.
Builders in River Ranch
🏠 Brightland Homes – Contemporary designs with spacious layouts.
🏠 Century Communities – Functional, open-concept floor plans starting in the $270s.
🏠 CastleRock Communities – Homes with high-end finishes starting in the high $280s.
🏠 Colina Homes – Affordable, energy-efficient homes starting in the $270s.
🏠 Davidson Homes – Modern, customizable homes for every lifestyle.
🏠 D.R. Horton Homes – Family-friendly homes from 2,457 to 3,261 square feet.
🏠 Empire Homes – Luxury-style homes with elegant finishes from the high $300s.
🏠 First America Homes – Spacious, oversized homesites with three-car garages.
🏠 K. Hovnanian Homes – Energy-efficient designs from the mid $300s.
🏠 Long Lake Homes – Affordable new builds with multiple floor plan options.
🏠 Pulte Homes – Smart-home designs with open-concept layouts.
🏠 Smith Douglas Homes – Classic, family-friendly homes with modern touches.
🏠 Tricoast Homes – Quality craftsmanship with premium materials.
Whether you’re looking for a starter home, a spacious family retreat, or a high-end luxury property, River Ranch has options for every buyer.
Resort-Style Amenities in River Ranch
Living in River Ranch means having access to state-of-the-art amenities, including a 40-acre beach and entertainment district.
🌊 Angel Lagoon – The Crown Jewel of River Ranch
River Ranch is adjacent to Angel Lagoon, a world-class resort-style water attraction featuring:
🏝 White sand beaches & crystal-clear water.
🎶 Live music stage & amphitheater.
🍽 Shoreline Grill restaurant & bar.
🚤 Boat docks & water sports activities.
🍹 Swim-up Aqua Bar.
🏐 Beach volleyball courts & cabanas.
🎾 Recreation & Fitness Park
River Ranch offers a fully equipped park with:
✔️ Pickleball courts.
✔️ Playground & daycare center.
✔️ Dog park.
✔️ Fitness loop & walking trails.
🚶 GreenBolt™ Trail System
A 12-foot-wide walking, jogging, and biking trail connects River Ranch residents to Angel Lagoon and community parks.
What’s Nearby? Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
River Ranch is just minutes from local conveniences, with easy access to Houston, Baytown, and The Woodlands.
🚗 Local Attractions
- Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge – Hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
- Dayton Community Center – Hosts local events, markets, and concerts.
🍽 Best Restaurants Near River Ranch
- Jose’s Mexican Restaurant – Authentic Tex-Mex.
- Texas Roadhouse – Classic American steakhouse.
- The Republic Grille – Upscale comfort food.
🛍 Shopping & Grocery Stores
- H-E-B and Kroger for everyday essentials.
- Dayton Farmers Market for fresh produce.
- Boutique shops offering unique home décor and fashion.
Cost of Living & Property Taxes in River Ranch
One of the biggest benefits of living in River Ranch is the affordable cost of living compared to other Houston suburbs.
💰 12% lower than the national average.
🏠 Housing costs are 38% lower than other Texas metros.
📈 Property tax rate: 1.21%, lower than Houston’s average.
Schools & Education in River Ranch
Families moving to River Ranch will benefit from the highly-rated Dayton Independent School District (Dayton ISD), offering:
✔️ Strong academic programs.
✔️ Advanced Placement (AP) & Career Technical Education (CTE) programs.
✔️ Small class sizes & dedicated teachers focused on student success.
Is River Ranch the Right Community for You?
If you’re looking for a brand-new home in a master-planned community with luxury amenities, top builders, and an affordable cost of living, River Ranch in Dayton, TX, is an excellent choice.
📢 Interested in learning more?
Connect with the Red Hawk Property Team powered by JLA Realty today!
🏡 Our team can help you find the perfect home, navigate the buying process, and secure the best deals on new construction homes in River Ranch.