Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012
Reclassification adjustments
Realized gain (loss) on sale of marketable securities	$ 705	$ 446
Marketable securities \| Reclassification adjustment
Reclassification adjustments
Realized gain (loss) on sale of marketable securities	$ 152

This item represents investment income derived from investments in debt and equity securities consisting of interest income earned from investments in debt securities, dividend income from investments in equity securities, and income or expense derived from the amortization of investment related discounts or premiums, respectively, net of related investment expenses. This item also includes the total realized gain (loss) included in earnings for the period as a result of selling or holding marketable securities categorized as available-for-sale. Additionally, this item would include any losses recognized for other than temporary impairments of the subject investments in debt and equity securities.

No definition available.

Name:	ryl_GainLossFromMarketableSecuritiesNet
Namespace Prefix:	ryl_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration