Regarded as one of the best places to live in the city, Dobson Ranch is an idyllic master-planned community. Governed by a homeowners association (HOA), this neighborhood is acclaimed for its stunning properties, top-tier amenities (including multiple recreation centers and a park), and its close proximity to top conveniences, it should come as no surprise that this community is highly sought-after among those moving to the city.
Dobson Ranch is one of the largest master-planned communities in all of Arizona. It features a total of 5,000 homes, and a population of over 15,000 residents. In addition to its year-round amenities, the neighborhood also offers special resident-only classes, clubs, and events.
Where is Dobson Ranch?
Dobson Ranch is located in Mesa, Arizona. It is located approximately four miles south of the city center. This equates to a commute time of about 10 minutes.
Where is Dobson Ranch located within the city? You can find this neighborhood bordering the southern edge of Highway 60, in between 101 and 87. It is across the street from Mesa Community College and a local medical center and hospital.
Don’t have a vehicle? Not a problem. Residents can access Dobson Ranch via public transportation using local bus service. Simply take the 96 Dobson Road bus route, which extends from northern Mesa to well south of Dobson Ranch.
Map of Dobson Ranch, Mesa AZ
Dobson Ranch History & Overview
What is Dobson Ranch known for? Branded with the tagline “The best place to live!,” this thriving community has become one of Mesa’s most desirable spots to reside. However, the plot of land that the neighborhood sits on has a long history — dating all the way back to 1886.
Close to the start of the 20th century, what is now known as Dobson Ranch served as a large farm and cattle ranch. This farming operation was owned by Wilson Wesley Dobson, a Canadian immigrant to the U.S. Where Baseline Road now sits, there was once an estimated 20,000 cattle roaming the property.
Because of the rapid expansion of Mesa in the 1960s and 1970s, the City of Mesa purchased this land from the Dobson family. Soon after the purchase, construction of Dobson Ranch began in 1973. This massive master-planned community was finally completed in 1999.
Today, Dobson Ranch is a family-friendly neighborhood in Mesa. It features a mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes, making it easy to find the perfect residence for your needs. Equipped with a myriad of top-tier amenities, including multiple clubhouses, lakes, a park, and much more, residing in this picturesque community is a dream.
What’s especially unique about Dobson Ranch is that it has its own on-site police substation, churches, schools, and even a branch of the community library. With so much within walking distance of home, accessing everything you need is a breeze.
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What’s it Like Living in Dobson Ranch?
After talking with neighborhood residents, you’ll quickly discover that there are many interesting things about Dobson Ranch. Spacious, filled with excellent amenities, and efficiently run, this community feels as though it is its own town.
People living in Dobson Ranch say that they love the overall feel of the neighborhood. They also agree that Dobson Ranch is a safe and friendly place to live. Members of the community routinely maintain their homes and lawns, adding to the appeal of the area.
Families are especially drawn to living in Dobson Ranch. The vast majority of the events that are planned for residents are for children and families. Outdoor movie nights, kids camps, and even an on-site preschool make this a wonderful place for children and their parents.
In addition to seasonally-held events, camps, and classes for kids, the recreation centers and park at Dobson Ranch are geared heavily toward children and teens. At La Casita Recreation Center, there is a water splash pad, an outdoor swimming pool, and a playground/play area. The Saratoga Recreation Center and the Los Altos Recreation Center come with similar amenities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, and pools. Each facility can be rented out for birthday parties and other special events.
The on-site amenities at Dobson Ranch are not just for kids. Individuals and couples at all stages of life will find many fun ways to spend their free time without leaving the neighborhood. Each recreation center is equipped with top-of-the-line athletic facilities, including lighted tennis courts, junior Olympic-sized lap pools, boat docks along the lakefront, pickleball courts, basketball courts, and more. This community is wonderful for those looking to stay active and in-shape throughout the year.
The Dobson Ranch HOA is $579.60 per year and is set annually by the HOA Board.
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Things to Do in Dobson Ranch – Best Restaurants, Attractions & Shopping
Curious about what restaurants, attractions, and shops are located in and around Dobson Ranch? Check out some of the area’s top picks in each category.
Dobson Ranch Places to Eat
What are the best Dobson Ranch restaurants? Within the neighborhood, there is an excellent selection of eateries that feature both indoor and outdoor dining. Many restaurants are kid-friendly, while others are ideal for a romantic date night for couples.
For those who are looking for outstanding Korean fare, Drunken Tiger is a must-visit. Open for dinner and late-night service, this trendy establishment is known for its Korean pub food and adult beverages. Popular dishes include the Fire Chicken, Bulgogi Fries, Ramen, and the Kimchi Pork Fries.
Another great restaurant in Dobson Ranch is Baby Kay’s Cajun Kitchen. Open for over 30 years, Baby Kay’s is known for having the only authentic Cajun cuisine in the Valley. Delight in a one-of-a-kind menu, which includes dishes such as the Seafood Gumbo, Po’ Boy Sandwiches, and Fried Catfish.
- Drunken Tiger, 1954 S Dobson Rd #5, Mesa, AZ 85202, 480-755-7555
- Baby Kay’s Cajun Kitchen, 2051 S Dobson Rd suite 18, Mesa, AZ 85202, 480-800-4811
Dobson Ranch Things To Do
Searching for fun ways to occupy your free time without leaving the area? There are plenty of things to do in Dobson Ranch — many of which are exclusive to residents.
Golf in Dobson Ranch is an extremely popular activity. Need somewhere to book your weekly tee time? Dobson Ranch Golf Course is the top choice among neighborhood residents. As the #1 municipal golf course in Mesa, the service and overall experience is unparalleled.
Located in the neighborhood, the Los Altos Recreation Center is a resident-only facility. Throughout the year, take advantage of amenities such as an eight-foot deep pool, playground, picnic area, basketball court, a junior Olympic-sized lap pool, two pickleball courts, and a lighted tennis court.
Also available exclusively to residents is the Dennis Kavanaugh Park. Accessible by keyed entry, Dobson Ranch residents can enjoy this quiet space any time they please. It is dog-friendly and great for kids.
- Dobson Ranch Golf Course, 2155 S Dobson Rd, Mesa, AZ 85202, 480-644-2291
- Los Altos Recreation Center, 2524 W Campo Alegre Cir, Mesa, AZ 85202, 480-831-8314
- Dennis Kavanaugh Park, 1802 S Yucca, Mesa, AZ 85202, 480-831-8314
Dobson Ranch Shopping
Need to pick up the essentials? Walk or drive to the selection of stores found in the Dobson Ranch neighborhood.
For those who have freshwater or saltwater fish, Aquarium Arts is your go-to store for all the supplies you need. This shop has been open since 1986, and sells plants, corals, and a variety of live fish.
Want to support a locally-owned store when making your grocery store run? Featuring three area locations, Baiz Fresh Foods is the top choice for Dobson Ranch residents. Within this grocery store, individuals can shop a wide array of specialty departments, including bakery, meat, deli, produce, and more.
- Aquarium Arts, 1810 W Baseline Rd #1, Mesa, AZ 85202, 480-820-8688
- Baiz Fresh Foods, 1858 W Baseline Rd, Mesa, AZ 85202, 480-718-9227
Schools in Dobson Ranch
Dobson Ranch is part of the Mesa Public Schools district. In the neighborhood, there are an impressive number of schools that span every grade level. There are both public and private options available that are located inside of Dobson Ranch.
Sharing the neighborhood’s namesake, Dobson High School is a wonderful school for students in grades 9 through 12. Searching for a neighborhood school for your middle school student? Serving grades 7 through 9, Rhodes Junior High School is a top choice among area parents.
For younger grades, Crismon Elementary School and Washington Elementary School are two highly rated schools in Dobson Ranch. Each provides robust academic programs, special events, and extracurriculars.
Families searching for private school options will be delighted to discover St. Timothy Daycare and Preschool, as well as St. Timothy Catholic School. Aside from these major schools, there are also a number of quality preschools located in Dobson Ranch.
Is Dobson Ranch Safe?
Dobson Ranch is a safe place to live. Consistently ranked as one the safest neighborhoods in all of Mesa, Arizona, this is a wonderful community for people who are concerned with safety. Crime rates in Dobson Ranch are significantly lower than the Mesa average.
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Dobson Ranch, Mesa AZ Real Estate
All homes located within Dobson Ranch were built between 1973 and 1999. Spanning multiple decades, residential properties in this neighborhood are varied in their size and style. For those who are looking to avoid a “cookie cutter” master-planned community, this neighborhood is a great choice. Whether you are planning to purchase a single-family home, a condo, or a townhome, options abound in Dobson Ranch.
The median home price in Dobson Ranch is $489,000. Because of the desirability of this area, homes sell quickly (spending an average of just 16 days on the market). Architectural styles found throughout the neighborhood include Spanish-style, Mid-Century, Pueblo-style, and several others.
Thinking about renting a residential property in Dobson Ranch? Currently, the average cost of rent for an 825 square foot dwelling is $1,568 per month.
Need professional moving services for your relocation to Dobson Ranch? Have peace of mind when you hire our award-winning Mesa movers. Experienced in local and long distance moves, we have the resources, experience, and equipment needed to deliver an unmatched relocation experience. Contact us today to request your moving services quote.
