Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Cash and cash equivalents - discontinued operations	$ 27	$ 27	$ 57	$ 56

Represents the cash and cash equivalents associated with discontinued operations.

No definition available.

Name:	ryl_CashAndCashEquivalentsDiscontinuedOperations
Namespace Prefix:	ryl_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant